Originally published in Five-Minute Tax Briefing® – August 12, 2025 (No. 2025-15)
In a recent Q&A session, IRS Commissioner Billy Long announced that the start of the 2025 e-filing season for Form 1040 may be pushed back to Presidents’ Day—February 16, 2026. This potential delay stems from the agency’s efforts to implement a broad set of tax changes included in H.R. 1, P.L. 119-21, more commonly known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).
Commissioner Long noted that, although the IRS considered opening earlier, the complexity of the OBBBA provisions requires more time to ensure proper rollout. “We have to get this right,” he emphasized, adding that the IRS will need every available day to finalize the necessary updates.
If confirmed, the February 16 start date would represent the latest filing season launch in recent memory—delayed by 20 days compared to last year and even further than the COVID-related postponement in 2021.
What This Means for Clients
While the IRS may delay the start of e-filing, this does not mean you should wait to send in your tax documents. At Ross Buehler Falk & Company, we can still prepare your return—we just can’t e-file it until the IRS officially opens the system.
We encourage clients to continue submitting their documents as soon as they’re ready so we can complete your return and be ready to file without delay once the system goes live.
Key Takeaway
Early preparation is still the best way to ensure a smooth tax season. Submitting your materials early allows our team adequate time to consider how to maximize any potential benefits for you related to the new tax laws, avoids last-minute stress, and positions you for timely filing as soon as the IRS gives the green light.
Have questions? Contact your Ross Buehler Falk advisor to get started.