Tax Tips & Updates for Individuals and Small Business Owners
We’re Here When You’re Ready
Tax laws change. Deadlines sneak up. And there’s always something new to remember.
At Rowe & Jimenez, we keep things clear, timely, and approachable—so you can stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.
Below, you’ll find seasonal tips, IRS updates, and practical advice for individuals, freelancers, and small business owners.
We update this page regularly, so feel free to check back anytime—or reach out with questions.
Seasonal Reminders
Q1: January–March
Gather all W-2s, 1099s, and income documents
Review charitable donations and receipts from the prior year
File early to avoid delays—especially if you’re expecting a refund
Finalize prior-year bookkeeping if you’re self-employed
Q2: April–June
April 15: Deadline to file or request an extension
Pay Q1 estimated taxes (if required)
Evaluate first-quarter income if you’re self-employed or own a business
Consider setting up a retirement contribution plan
Q3: July–September
Time to catch up if you filed an extension
Mid-year bookkeeping check: are your records clean?
Review mileage logs, business expenses, or contractor payments
Pay Q2 estimated taxes
Q4: October–December
October 15: Final deadline for extended returns
Make last-minute deductible purchases or donations
Review income and tax position to avoid surprises
Prep for year-end reports or catch-up if behind
IRS Updates & Changes
Last updated: February 2026
2026 Federal Filing Season Is Open
The IRS officially opened the 2026 tax filing season on January 26, 2026, and is now accepting federal returns for tax year 2025. Most taxpayers must file and pay any tax owed by April 15, 2026 to avoid penalties. E-filing with direct deposit remains the fastest way to process refunds.
Key IRS Deadlines for 2026
• January 26, 2026 – IRS begins accepting and processing 2025 federal tax returns.
• April 15, 2026 – Deadline to file and pay 2025 federal tax returns; first quarter 2026 estimated tax payment also due.
• June 15, 2026 – Second quarter 2026 estimated tax payment due.
• September 15, 2026 – Third quarter 2026 estimated tax payment due.
• October 15, 2026 – Extended deadline to file 2025 returns (if extension requested).
• January 15, 2027 – Fourth quarter 2026 estimated payment due.
IRS Tools and Preparation Tips
The IRS has published updated filing tools and checklists to help taxpayers prepare. Filers should gather Forms W-2, 1099s, investment and business income records, and deduction documentation before starting their return.
Refund Timing and Processing
The IRS continues modernizing refund delivery; direct deposit is encouraged to help avoid delays. Most e-filed refunds are generally processed within a few weeks after acceptance, though staffing levels and accuracy of returns can affect timing.
California State Tax Updates
Last updated: February 2026
California 2026 Filing Season
The California Franchise Tax Board has also opened the 2026 filing season. California individual returns and taxes owed are due by April 15, 2026, with an automatic extension to October 15, 2026 to file if more time is needed (payment still due by April 15). Estimated state tax payments follow a quarterly schedule similar to federal estimated payments. .
Small business tax help
Issue 1099s by January 31 to all qualifying contractors
Track business expenses monthly to avoid messy year-end catch-up
Keep personal and business accounts separate —always
Consider quarterly tax payments if your business isn’t withholding income
Have a question about your tax situation?
We’re here to make things simpler—not scarier.
If you need help with a return, an IRS letter, or just want to get ahead this year,
we’re ready when you are.
