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Key January 2026 Tax Deadlines for Individuals

The new year marks the onset of significant tax deadlines for individuals in January 2026, particularly concerning estimated payments, tip reporting, and tax planning. It is essential to stay informed about these deadlines and meticulously plan your finances.

January 2 - Schedule Your Tax Preparation Appointment

Kick-starting tax season, January offers an ideal window to schedule your tax preparation appointment. If you haven’t secured a slot to prepare your taxes, now is the time to act before schedules fill up.
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January 12 - Tip Reporting Deadline for Employees

Employees earning tips are required to report any tips over $20 received in December by January 12. This involves submitting IRS Form 4070 or a personalized statement detailing your signature, contact information, employer’s name, reporting period, and total tips earned during that period.

Your employer needs to withhold FICA taxes and income tax on these tips. Should your wages be inadequate to cover these withholdings, the understated amount will appear in box 8 of your W-2, requiring subsequent payment when filing your annual return.
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January 15 - Final Deadline for 2025 Estimated Tax Payment

January 15 marks the cutoff for making the fourth and final estimated tax installment payment for the 2025 tax year. Failing to meet this deadline necessitates filing your 2025 tax return and paying any due taxes by February 2, 2026, to avoid penalties.

Due Dates on Weekends and Holidays
Any deadlines landing on weekends or legal holidays automatically extend to the following business day that isn’t a legal holiday.

Extensions for Disaster Areas
Designated disaster areas often receive extended deadlines. To ascertain whether your area qualifies for such extensions, refer to these resources: FEMA: Disaster Declarations IRS: Tax Relief in Disaster Situations

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