The IRS has issued its first “Get Ready” reminder for the 2026 tax filing season (IR-2025-116), encouraging taxpayers to begin preparing early – especially as several provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill take effect for the 2025 tax year. Whether you are an individual taxpayer or a small-business owner, taking steps now will help ensure an accurate and smooth filing experience in early 2026.
Below are the most important updates, based on the IRS “Get Ready to File” guide and OBBBA provisions, along with practical reminders to help you stay organized.
1. New Tax Rules to Keep in Mind for 2025 Returns
The IRS and Treasury continue implementing provisions under the One Big Beautiful Bill, which introduces several new deductions and exclusions beginning with 2025 tax returns filed in 2026. According to the IRS, taxpayers may see changes affecting federal taxes, credits, and deductions.
Among the key provisions moving forward are:
- The annual IRS inflation adjustment to tax brackets, standard deductions, and other indexed amounts.
- New exclusions or deductions for certain taxpayers, including
- qualified tip income,
- qualified overtime pay, and
- qualified car loan interest for eligible vehicle loans.
- A temporary deduction for seniors and certain other taxpayers, as outlined in the OBBBA provisions.
Each provision includes specific eligibility requirements, and the IRS will continue to release additional guidance. Taxpayers should stay updated to understand how these rules apply to their individual circumstances.
2. Start Gathering and Organizing Your Tax Records
The IRS emphasizes one simple message: organized records lead to accurate tax returns.
To get ready, begin collecting essential documents such as W-2s, 1099s, bank information for direct deposit, Form 1095-A (Health Insurance Marketplace Statement) and records for digital asset transactions. The IRS also reminds taxpayers not to file until all information returns have arrived, since missing or corrected forms can delay your refund.
Being organized now can reduce last-minute stress and help prevent errors that trigger IRS notices.
3. Take Advantage of Your IRS Online Account
The IRS continues to enhance its Online Account, encouraging taxpayers to use it as a secure way to access their tax information. With an Online Account, you can review prior-year returns, view or schedule payments, obtain your Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN), authorize your tax professional electronically, and access available W-2s and certain 1099 forms.
For small-business owners who work with a tax preparer, this tool makes it easier to exchange verified tax information safely and efficiently.
4. Prepare for Direct Deposit – Paper Checks Are Being Phased Out
Direct deposit remains the fastest way to receive a tax refund. Due to federal payment modernization under Executive Order 14247, the IRS began phasing out paper refund checks on September 30, 2025. As a result, most taxpayers will need to provide a routing number and account number when filing.
For those without a bank account, the IRS recommends opening one through an FDIC-insured bank or a credit union, or – if you are a veteran – through the Veterans Benefits Banking Program. Some prepaid cards and mobile wallet apps may also support direct deposit, but taxpayers should confirm the correct routing and account numbers with their financial provider.
5. Reminders for Small Business Owners
Small business owners should begin year-end preparation early. The IRS encourages businesses to verify payroll records for accurate W-2s, organize contractor payments for 1099-NEC reporting, track sales processed through payment apps that could generate a Form 1099-K and maintain documentation for deductible expenses, including those newly introduced through OBBBA.
Preparing ahead helps simplify filing and reduces the risk of penalties for incomplete or late information reporting.
Conclusion
The 2026 tax season will bring notable changes as provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill continue to roll out. By getting organized now – collecting documents, setting up your IRS Online Account and preparing direct-deposit information – you can file more confidently and avoid unnecessary delays.
At The Wisebook – Your Trusted Tax & Business Partner, we help individuals and small businesses stay informed and compliant through every filing season. If you’d like assistance preparing for 2026, understanding new deductions or reviewing your records before year-end, we’re here to help.
