Surprised by a small or non-existent 2026 tax refund? You’re not alone. While the media often focuses on last-minute savings, the real headlines this year are about the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA). This massive piece of legislation has fundamentally shifted how deductions work, leaving many taxpayers wondering where their expected “windfall” went.
How IRS Tax Debt Affects Your Passport Under the FAST Act
Under the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, the IRS has the authority to certify individuals with “seriously delinquent tax debts” to the State Department. This certification can lead to the denial of a passport application or renewal and, in some cases, the revocation of an existing passport.
Navigating the June 15 Deadline for Americans Abroad
If you live or work outside the United States, your tax obligations remain largely the same as those of U.S. citizens, including for dual citizens. However, the IRS recognizes the unique challenges of filing from overseas by granting an automatic two-month extension. For the 2026 tax season, your federal income tax return and any tax due must be submitted by June 15, 2026.
What To Do if You Missed the Tax Deadline
If you missed the April 15, 2026, filing deadline, the most important step is to file as soon as possible. Whether you owe the IRS or are expecting a refund, delaying your return increases the risk of penalties and lost credits under the new 2026 tax laws.
More Entities Gain Access to IRS Business Tax Account
The IRS has announced an expansion of its Business Tax Account (BTA), making the self-service platform available to partnerships, tax-exempt organizations, federal, state, and local governments, and Indian tribal governments.
Plan Carefully to Minimize Taxes on Your Inheritance
Getting a large inheritance can create new financial opportunities. But it’s important to handle inherited assets carefully, especially when it comes to taxes and planning. Understanding relevant tax rules can help you avoid surprises and make informed decisions.
Review Your Withholding After Filing
If you filed your 2025 return on time, you may now have valuable information that can help you fine-tune your 2026 withholding. A big refund indicates you withheld too much in 2025. If you expect your 2026 income and deductions to be very similar, consider reducing your withholding so that you won’t give the federal government such a large, interest-free loan this year.
How Hiring Your Child This Summer Can Reduce Taxes
The wages you pay your child are generally deductible as a business expense. For your child’s income tax purposes, wages received will be at least partially protected from federal income tax by his or her standard deduction. Any wages in excess of the standard deduction generally will be taxed at your child’s marginal rate, likely only 10%. So this strategy can reduce your family’s overall income tax liability.
May 2026 Tax Due Dates
May 15 Calendar-year exempt organizations: File a 2025 information return (Form 990, Form 990-EZ, or Form 990-PF) or file for an automatic six-month extension (Form 8868). Pay any tax due. Calendar-year small exempt organizations: File a 2025 e-Postcard (Form 990-N) …
What Is the Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT)?
The Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) is a 3.8% surtax that applies to certain types of investment income when your income exceeds specific thresholds. While often associated with high earners, it can also affect moderate-income taxpayers during years with large gains—such as the sale of assets or investments.