Learning Center

We keep you up to date on the latest tax changes and news in the industry.

Key Tax Deadlines: January 2026

With the new year comes a fresh set of tax deadlines. January 2026 is a crucial month for individual taxpayers, featuring deadlines for estimated tax payments, tip reporting, and strategic tax planning. Familiarize yourself with these important dates to ensure compliance and optimize your tax strategy.

Image 1

January 2 - Schedule Your Tax Preparation Appointment

Kick off tax season by scheduling your tax preparation appointment. Avoid the rush and ensure you’re ready well before deadlines by booking early in January.

January 12 - Tip Reporting Requirements

Employees earning tips exceeding $20 in December must report these to their employer by January 12. Utilize IRS Form 4070 or an equivalent statement with your signature; your name, address, and Social Security number; your employer’s details; and the total tips earned. Your employer is obligated to withhold FICA and income taxes from your wages. Should your wages not cover the tax liability, the shortfall will be noted in box 8 of your W-2, with payment due upon filing your tax return.

January 15 - Deadline for 2025 Estimated Tax Payments

This marks the cut-off for your fourth-quarter estimated tax payment for 2025. Failing to make this payment necessitates filing your 2025 tax return and settling any taxes due by February 2, 2026, to bypass an estimated tax penalty.

Account for Weekends and Holidays

Should any due date coincide with a weekend or federal holiday, the deadline will automatically extend to the following business day that isn’t a holiday.

Extended Deadlines for Disaster Areas

Image 3

In areas designated as disaster zones, filing deadlines are extended. Verify if your area qualifies and discover the new due dates through:

FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/declarations
IRS: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations

Share this article...

Want tax & accounting tips and insights?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .

Get Started Today

Book a free discovery call and let us show you how our expertise can save you money in the long run.

Let's Get Started