Important information about this tax season
Worried about your tax refund potential this year? We are here for you with ways to help you maximize your tax refund.
Tax season can bring up a lot of feelings like stress, uncertainty and maybe even hope for a little extra cash. You’re not alone. Many people rely on their tax refund as an important source of financial breathing room. Understanding what’s new this year can help you make the most of it.
If you are worried about your refund potential this year—we are here for you with help to find ways to maximize your tax refund. While we may not be tax experts, we are committed to sharing options and resources available to help you receive that financial boost when you need it most.
Key dates for 2026
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced official deadlines for the 2026 tax season:
- April 15, 2026: The deadline to file your federal return or request an extension
- October 15, 2026 The extended filing deadline if you request an extension (taxes owed must still be paid by April 15)
Filing electronically and choosing direct deposit is still the fastest way to receive your refund.
Notable deductions and credits
For the first time, taxpayers may qualify for new or expanded deductions created by recent federal legislation, including:
- Deductions related to qualified tips
- Deductions for overtime income
- An enhanced deduction for people ages 65 and older
- Certain car loan interest deductions
These deductions are claimed using a new form, Schedule 1-A, when filing your federal return.
Don't miss out on the Earned Income Tax Credit
Did you know that every year about five million potentially eligible people miss out on the chance to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC? This credit helps working individuals and families keep more of what they earn. You may qualify even if:
- You earned less income than usual
- You worked part-time or had multiple jobs
- You don't typically owe taxes
To receive the EITC, you must file a tax return, even if you would not otherwise be required to do so. If you’re not sure if you qualify, or if you usually don’t file taxes, you can use the IRS Earned Income Tax Credit Assistant to help check eligibility.
Free and low-cost filing options
Credit Human is dedicated to sharing options and resources available to help you receive that financial boost when you need it most. The IRS offers programs like Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) where those who qualify can receive free tax prep help from an IRS-trained volunteer.
A few important notes:
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance or Tax Counseling for the Elderly tax preparation sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls and other convenient locations across the country.
- To locate the nearest VITA or TCE site near your, call 800-906-9887, or visit the VITA/TCE Locator Tool.
- Look carefully at the website before going to a VITA or TCEC site to ensure you have all the required documents and information. The site offers the option to schedule an appointment in a location nearest to you.
The IRS also offers IRS Free File for taxpayers with an adjusted gross income under $89,000.
- Opens January 8 and runs through October 15
- Acess is only available through the IRS website
A helpful reminder about your tax documents
As you prepare to file your taxes, don’t forget to gather the document’s you’ll need. For Credit Human members, many tax-related statements, such as interest earned, loan interest paid or account activity summaries can be downloaded directly from digital banking.
Logging into your digital banking account allows you to:
- Access and download statements for the prior tax year
- Save or print documents for your tax preparer
- Reduce stress by keeping everything organized in one place
Accessing statements online can help you get started sooner and avoid delays if something is missing.
A final reminder
The IRS continues to encourage direct deposit, which is typically faster and safer than paper checks. Refunds are often issued within 21 days as long as returns are filed electronically and accurately.
Tax season doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Taking small steps, gathering documents early, checking for credits and choosing trustworthy filing tools can reduce stress and help you move forward with more confidence. If you need support, we’re here to help you think through next steps and make informed decisions—judgement-free and people-first. Make an appointment with one of our Financial Health Centers today.
