How to Choose Tax Software in 2026
Jun 3, 2026· us
Learn what factors to weigh when choosing tax software, which free IRS filing options exist, and when a professional may be the right call.
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Tax industry news, IRS rule changes, and state-by-state tax updates — refreshed daily.
Filing Taxes for the First Time: A Guide
Jun 3, 2026· usA plain-language guide for first-time filers: what documents to gather, how to choose a filing method, the April 15, 2026 deadline, and how to get your refund.
How Long to Keep Tax Records
Jun 3, 2026· usIRS recordkeeping rules explained: keep most tax records 3 years, longer in specific cases, and copies of filed returns indefinitely.
Education Tax Credits: AOTC and LLC
Jun 3, 2026· usA summary of the two federal education credits — the AOTC (up to $2,500) and the Lifetime Learning Credit (up to $2,000) — eligibility, income limits, and Form 8863.
Side Hustle Taxes: What You Need to Know
Jun 3, 2026· usSide hustle income is taxable under federal law — even without a 1099. Learn when SE tax applies, which forms to file, and how to handle quarterly payments.
Commonly Missed Tax Deductions for 2026
Jun 3, 2026· usSeveral above-the-line adjustments and credits are commonly overlooked each filing season. Learn which deductions taxpayers often miss and whether you may be eligible.
Can't Pay Your Tax Bill? IRS Payment Plans
Jun 3, 2026· usCan't pay your taxes? File on time, pay what you can, then choose an IRS payment plan — installment agreement, OIC, or CNC status.
The Earned Income Tax Credit Explained
Jun 3, 2026· usThe EITC is a refundable federal credit for low-to-moderate-income workers. Learn 2025 amounts, eligibility rules, how to claim, and when refunds arrive.
Child Tax Credit 2026: Who Qualifies
Jun 3, 2026· usLearn who qualifies for the Child Tax Credit for tax year 2025, how much it is, income phaseout limits, and how the refundable ACTC works.
Form W-4 and Tax Withholding Explained
Jun 3, 2026· usForm W-4 tells your employer how much federal income tax to withhold each paycheck. Learn the 5 steps, when to update it, and how the IRS Estimator helps.
Do I Need to File Taxes? 2026 Income Thresholds
Jun 3, 2026· usFind out if you need to file a 2025 federal tax return. Income thresholds by filing status, self-employment rules, and when to file for a refund.
Standard Deduction vs Itemizing in 2026
Jun 3, 2026· usTax year 2025 standard deduction amounts by filing status, how itemizing works on Schedule A, and how to decide which reduces your federal tax bill.
Quarterly Estimated Taxes: A 2026 Guide
Jun 3, 2026· usWho must pay quarterly estimated taxes, the four 2026 due dates, safe-harbor thresholds, payment methods, and the underpayment penalty explained.
Self-Employed 1099 Tax Guide for 2026
Jun 3, 2026· usA neutral informational summary of 2025 self-employment tax rules: SE tax rates, Schedule C and SE, 1099-NEC, deductible expenses, and quarterly estimated payments.
Tax Filing Deadlines for 2026: Key Dates
Jun 3, 2026· usThe 2025 federal tax return is due April 15, 2026. File Form 4868 by that date to extend to Oct 15 — but tax owed is still due April 15.