Key Individual Tax Deadlines in January 2026

The new year brings new tax responsibilities. January 2026 is packed with critical individual tax deadlines, including those for estimated payments, tip reporting, and strategic tax planning endeavors. Stay informed about these due dates to ensure compliance and optimize your financial strategies.

January 2 - Schedule Your Tax Appointment -

With the arrival of tax season, it's crucial to book your tax preparation appointment early. Avoid the rush by scheduling it before your calendar fills up.

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January 12 - Report Tips to Employer -

Employees who earn tips must report any amount over $20 received in December to their employer by January 12. Use IRS Form 4070 or a signed statement with your pertinent details: name, address, Social Security number, employer’s name and address, reporting period, and total tips.

Your employer is responsible for withholding FICA and income taxes on these tips from your regular wages. Should your wages be insufficient to cover these withholdings, the uncollected amount will be reported in box 8 of your W-2. You'll need to settle this when filing your year-end tax return.

January 15 - Individual Estimated Tax Payment Due -

Mark this day as the deadline for your fourth quarter estimated tax payment for 2025. Failure to pay by this date means you'll need to file your 2025 return and pay any outstanding taxes by February 2, 2026, to avoid penalties.

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Weekends & Holidays -

If a tax deadline falls on a weekend or legal holiday, the due date extends to the next business day that is not a holiday.

Disaster Area Extensions -

Should your area be declared a disaster zone, tax deadlines may be extended. Verify your region's status via the following resources:
FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/declarations
IRS: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations

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