Photo of Dr. Nikia Owens, Ph.D, Photo credit: Laura Elam
Tax season arrives every year with questions, deadlines, and sometimes uncertainty. For many working families, filing taxes is not only about meeting a requirement. It is also an opportunity to claim credits, receive refunds, and access resources that support household stability.
Key Deadline to Know
The federal tax filing deadline is April 15, 2026. Taxpayers who need additional time may request an extension, which moves the filing deadline to October 15, 2026. However, any taxes owed must still be paid by April 15 to avoid penalties and interest. Filing early, when possible, can help prevent delays and identity theft concerns.
How Standard Deductions May Benefit You
Most taxpayers choose the standard deduction, which lowers taxable income without requiring itemized expenses. For tax year 2025, the standard deductions are:
- $15,750 for Single filers or Married Filing Separately
- $31,500 for Married Filing Jointly or Qualifying Surviving Spouse
- $23,625 for Head of Household filers
These deductions automatically reduce the amount of income subject to federal tax, making them an important starting point when preparing a return.
Understanding Federal Tax Brackets
Federal income taxes are calculated using a progressive system. This means income is taxed in portions rather than at a single rate. Tax brackets vary depending on filing status, including Single, Married Filing Jointly, or Head of Household. Knowing which bracket applies can help taxpayers better understand how their income is taxed and why refunds or balances may differ from year to year.
If you are unsure how your income is taxed or what you may owe or receive as a refund, speaking with a trained tax professional can help clarify your situation.
Tax credits directly reduce the amount of tax owed and, in some cases, can increase a refund. Many working families qualify for credits without realizing it. Key credits for the 2026 tax year include:
- Child Tax Credit, worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child
- Child and Dependent Care Credit, which may offset eligible care expenses while working or seeking employment
- Saver’s Credit, providing up to $1,000 for individuals or $2,000 for married couples contributing to retirement savings
- Earned Income Tax Credit, which varies based on income, household size, and filing status
- Premium Tax Credit for individuals who purchased health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace
Free Filing Options Are Available
Cost should not prevent anyone from filing taxes correctly. Free federal filing options remain available:
IRS Free File guided software is available for taxpayers with adjusted gross income of $89,000 or less. Free File Fillable Forms are also available for those comfortable preparing their own return regardless of income level.
When to Expect Your Refund
After filing, many taxpayers look forward to receiving their refund as quickly as possible. Refund status is typically available within 24 hours after electronically filing a current-year return, within three days for prior-year electronic filings, or about four weeks after mailing a paper return. The Internal Revenue Service notes that most electronic refunds are issued within approximately three weeks, although processing times can vary.
What Gig Workers and Freelancers Should Know
Side work, freelance income, and contract jobs continue to grow across many industries. Income earned through gig work is taxable even when a traditional Form W-2 is not issued.
Self-employed taxpayers generally report income and expenses on Schedule C and calculate self-employment tax using Schedule SE when net earnings reach $400 or more. Many independent workers must also make quarterly estimated tax payments, usually due in April, June, September, and January of the following year.
Keeping detailed records of mileage, supplies, software subscriptions, equipment, and other business expenses can help ensure accurate filing and prevent missed deductions. If a Form 1099-K contains errors, taxpayers should request a corrected form while still filing on time.
New or Expanded Deductions to Watch
The Internal Revenue Service has indicated that some taxpayers may see new or enhanced deduction opportunities this filing season, depending on eligibility and income limits. These may include:
- An additional $6,000 deduction for eligible adults age 65 and older
- Up to $25,000 in qualified tip income
- Up to $12,500 in qualified overtime income, or $25,000 for joint filers
- Up to $10,000 in qualified passenger vehicle loan interest
Free Tax Help Through Campaign for Working Families
In need of guidance during the filing process? At Campaign for Working Families we provide free tax preparation services delivered by our Internal Revenue Service–certified volunteers, either in-person appointments, drop-off options, and virtual tax preparation designed to meet you right where you are. Here’s what to come with:
- Government-issued identification, passport, Permanent Resident Card, or Employment Authorisation Card
- Social Security cards for dependents
- Income documents such as Forms W-2 and 1099
For more guidance, reach us at 215-454-6483 or send us an email at getinfo@cwfphilly.org
Tax season does not have to be overwhelming. With accurate information, available credits, and trusted community support, working families can approach filing season with confidence and make the most of the resources available to them.