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Taxpayers preparing for the 2025 tax year (returns filed in 2026) often wonder about the release timeline for IRS Form 1040, the U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. The IRS typically releases draft versions of Form 1040 in mid-to-late summer or fall, with final versions available by late December or early January. As of December 2025, the draft Form 1040 for tax year 2025 is already publicly available, incorporating significant updates from recent legislation.
Draft Form 1040 for 2025: Current Status
The IRS has released draft versions of Form 1040 and related schedules for tax year 2025. These drafts are posted on the official IRS website and are intended for planning purposes only—do not file them.
- Draft Form 1040 (2025): Available as a PDF on IRS.gov. It includes updates for new reporting requirements and deductions.
- Draft Form 1040-SR (U.S. Tax Return for Seniors): Also released, with similar changes.
- Draft Schedule 1-A (Additional Deductions): A new schedule introduced for 2025 to claim temporary deductions.
These drafts were initially posted around September 2025, with updates continuing into November. Draft instructions for Form 1040 were released in November 2025, though some sections (like full details on Schedule 1-A) may still be pending finalization.
You can view and download the drafts directly from the IRS Draft Tax Forms page at irs.gov/draft-tax-forms. Always check for the latest versions, as drafts are marked “DO NOT FILE” and are subject to change.
When Will the Final Form 1040 for 2025 Be Available?
The final version of Form 1040 for tax year 2025 is expected to be released in late December 2025 or early January 2026, aligning with the start of the tax filing season. The IRS typically finalizes core forms like Form 1040 by this time to allow tax software providers and preparers to update their systems.
- The 2026 tax filing season (for 2025 returns) begins when the IRS starts accepting e-filed returns, usually in late January.
- Paper forms and instructions are generally available for ordering or download by January.
Historically, the IRS aims to have most forms ready before the filing season opens. For real-time updates, monitor the IRS Forms, Instructions, and Publications page at irs.gov/forms-instructions-and-publications.
Key Updates and Changes in the 2025 Form 1040
The 2025 Form 1040 includes notable changes due to recent tax legislation, often referred to as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” or similar reforms. These affect deductions, credits, and reporting:
- New Schedule 1-A (Additional Deductions): This brand-new schedule allows taxpayers to claim four temporary “below-the-line” deductions for 2025–2028:
- No tax on qualified tips.
- No tax on overtime compensation.
- Deduction for qualified car loan interest.
- Enhanced deduction for seniors.
These are subtracted after adjusted gross income (AGI) and may include modified AGI (MAGI) phase-outs.
- Other updates include new checkboxes for U.S. residency duration, changes to dependent sections, and adjustments for digital assets and gig economy income (e.g., lower 1099-K threshold of $600 starting in 2025).
- Inflation adjustments to standard deductions, tax brackets, and credits are also incorporated.
Tax professionals recommend reviewing the drafts early to plan for these changes, especially if you qualify for the new deductions.
Tips for Taxpayers Preparing for 2025 Returns
- Use Drafts for Planning: Estimate your 2025 taxes using the draft forms, but wait for finals before filing.
- E-Filing and Software: Most tax software (e.g., TurboTax, FreeTaxUSA) will incorporate updates once finals are released.
- Stay Updated: Subscribe to IRS news or check irs.gov regularly. The agency posts changes on their “Post-Release Changes to Tax Forms” page.
- Free Resources: IRS Free File, Direct File (if expanded), and VITA programs will support the new forms.
By staying informed about the Form 1040 release timeline and updates, you can avoid last-minute surprises during the 2026 filing season. For the most accurate information, always refer to official IRS sources.