The new year is here, and with it comes a fresh set of federal tax deadlines. Keeping these key dates in mind can help you avoid penalties, reduce stress, and stay compliant all year long. Below is a month-by-month reference guide to the most important federal tax deadlines for 2026.
January
January 15
- Deadline to pay 4th quarter estimated taxes for the prior tax year.
- This is an important date for freelancers, business owners, and others who make quarterly estimated payments.
February
February 2
- Deadline to send W-2s and 1099s to employees and independent contractors.
- Deadline to file W-2s/W-3s and 1099-NECs with the IRS.
- Employers and businesses should plan ahead to ensure all wage and contractor reporting is completed on time.
March
March 2
- Deadline to file paper 1099s and Form 1096 (excluding 1099-NECs).
March 16
- Deadline to file S-Corporation (Form 1120-S) and Partnership (Form 1065) tax returns.
- Deadline to elect S-Corporation status for existing corporations or LLCs.
March 31
- Deadline to electronically file 1099s and Form 1096 (excluding 1099-NECs).
April
April 15
- Deadline to file:
- Individual tax returns (Form 1040)
- C-Corporation returns (Form 1120)
- Last day to make HSA contributions and contributions to most retirement plans for the prior tax year.
- Deadline to pay 1st quarter estimated tax payments.
- This is the busiest tax deadline of the year and a critical one to plan for well in advance.
May
May 15
- Deadline to file most nonprofit tax returns (Form 990).
June
June 15
- Deadline to pay 2nd quarter estimated tax payments.
September
September 15
- Deadline to file extended S-Corporation and Partnership returns.
- Deadline to pay 3rd quarter estimated tax payments.
September 30
- Deadline to file extended trust returns.
October
October 15
- Deadline to file extended individual tax returns.
- Deadline to file extended C-Corporation returns.
November
November 16
- Deadline to file extended nonprofit returns.
Plan Ahead for a Smoother Tax Year
Tax deadlines can sneak up quickly, especially for those juggling multiple filing requirements. Mark these dates on your calendar, keep your records organized, and consider working with a tax professional to ensure everything is filed accurately and on time.
Staying proactive throughout 2026 can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress—so a little planning now can go a long way later.