If you want your tax refund fast, the IRS says that the formula is simple: file electronically, choose direct deposit, and double-check to avoid mistakes. Of course, not everyone is getting a refund.

Tax season officially begins today, Monday, Jan. 26. We hope you're ready, because there are a lot of changes, especially if you want to take advantage of several new tax deductions.

For taxpayers expecting a refund that averages about $3,000, filing early can mean getting that money back sooner.

IRS deadline for key tax forms has passed, and businesses may face penalties for late, incorrect, or missing filings.

The standard deduction and SALT cap are both higher and there are new perks for seniors, those who financed new cars and workers making tips or overtime

Most commercial tax-prep companies have free tiers. H&R Block is one of the most popular and has an easy-to-navigate interface, but FreeTaxUSA supports more schedules, including itemized deductions, income from investments and HSA contributions. (Only federal filing is free, however. State returns with FreeTaxUsa are $14.99 each.)

You could wind up paying a hefty penalty if you don't file your income taxes in time. Here's non-filing tax penalty this year.

The IRS said it expects 164 million individual tax returns to be filed.

There are several significant changes to the tax benefits Americans are entitled to claim this year including senior bonuses, increased child tax credits and more.

The IRS Direct File program was eliminated for the 2026 tax filing season. However, there are still several free tax preparation software options for some filers.

While the IRS Direct File program has been shut down, there are still ways to file your taxes for free. Here's what to know.