When Will 2025 Tax Forms Be Available? IRS Release Schedule

When Will 2025 Tax Forms Be Available? As the calendar flips to the end of 2025, taxpayers are gearing up for the 2026 tax filing season, where they’ll report income earned during tax year 2025 (January 1 to December 31, 2025). Understanding the IRS release schedule for 2025 tax forms is crucial for timely preparation, whether you’re an individual filer, business owner, or employer. This guide breaks down when key forms like Form 1040, W-2, and the 1099 series become available, based on official IRS guidelines and recent announcements. We’ll cover the typical timeline, current draft availability, and important deadlines to help you stay ahead.

Keep in mind that the IRS typically releases draft versions of forms throughout the year, with final versions finalized closer to the filing season. For tax year 2025, drafts began appearing in late 2025, and finals are expected by early 2026.

Understanding the IRS Tax Form Release Process

The IRS follows a structured process for updating and releasing tax forms each year:

  • Draft Releases: Preliminary versions (drafts) are posted on the IRS website for public review and feedback. These often start rolling out in the summer or fall of the tax year (e.g., mid-to-late 2025 for tax year 2025 forms). Drafts are not for filing but help software providers and tax professionals prepare.
  • Final Versions: Once changes are incorporated (based on new laws or feedback), final forms are published. This usually happens by late December or early January of the filing year (e.g., by end of January 2026 for 2025 forms).
  • Availability Channels: Forms are available for free download on IRS.gov. You can also order printed copies by mail, though most are ready by late January. Tax software like TurboTax or H&R Block often integrates them shortly after release.
  • Post-Release Changes: If errors or updates are needed after release, the IRS posts notices on their site.

For tax year 2025, no major changes were announced for core forms like W-2 and 1099 series, thanks to stability under recent legislation like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. However, new forms like Schedule 1-A for additional deductions and Form 1099-DA for crypto transactions may debut.

As of December 2025, several drafts for 2025 revisions are already available on the IRS draft forms page, with posting dates ranging from mid-to-late December.

Key 2025 Tax Filing Dates and Deadlines

The 2026 tax filing season for 2025 returns is set to begin in late January 2026, with the IRS expected to start accepting returns around January 28, 2026. The standard filing deadline is April 15, 2026, though extensions can push it to October 15, 2026.

Here’s a quick overview of important dates:

Date Event
Late January 2026 (approx. Jan 28) IRS begins accepting and processing 2025 tax returns.
January 31, 2026 Deadline for employers to issue W-2 and certain 1099 forms to recipients.
February 2, 2026 Deadline for filing W-2 forms with the Social Security Administration (SSA).
April 15, 2026 Tax Day: Deadline to file 2025 returns or request an extension.
October 15, 2026 Final deadline for extended 2025 returns.

Note: These dates apply to most taxpayers; check IRS Publication 509 for specific calendars if you’re a farmer, fisherman, or have excise taxes.

Availability of Specific 2025 Tax Forms

  • Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Return): Drafts for supporting schedules (e.g., Schedule 1-A) were released in November 2025, with more in December. Final versions are typically available by early January 2026, in time for the filing season start.
  • Schedules for Form 1040: As of December 2025, drafts like Instructions for Schedule F (Profit or Loss From Farming) and new Schedule 1-A are posted. Expect finals by late January 2026.

Form W-2 (Wage and Tax Statement)

  • Employers must furnish W-2 forms to employees by January 31, 2026. No changes to the form for 2025, so blanks are available now on IRS.gov for preparation. For military personnel, some statements are available as early as December 17, 2025, via myPay.

1099 Series Forms (e.g., 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC)

  • These report non-employee income, interest, dividends, etc. Recipients should receive them by January 31, 2026 (for most types) or February 17, 2026 (for some like 1099-B). No structural changes for 2025, but a new Form 1099-DA for digital assets may apply. Blank forms are available on IRS.gov; finals expected by end of January 2026.

Other Common Forms

  • Form 1098 (Mortgage Interest Statement): Issued by lenders by January 31, 2026.
  • Publication 17 (Your Federal Income Tax): Drafts for related guides like Tax Guide for Seniors were posted December 18, 2025.
  • For businesses: Forms like 1120-S instructions drafts are available as of December 18, 2025.

How to Access 2025 Tax Forms

  • Online: Visit IRS.gov/forms-pubs or the draft forms page for immediate downloads.
  • By Mail: Order via IRS.gov; most arrive within 10 days, available by end of January 2026.
  • Tax Software and e-Filing: Platforms like eFile.com will support 2025 forms starting in January 2026.
  • IRS Newsroom: Check for updates on releases or changes.

Tips for Preparing Your 2025 Taxes

  • Gather documents early: Start collecting receipts, investment statements, and charity records now.
  • Watch for law changes: 2025 includes expiring provisions and new deductions—consult a tax pro if needed.
  • Avoid delays: File electronically for faster refunds, especially with the IRS phasing out paper checks.
  • Penalty relief: The IRS offers relief for certain 2025 reporting issues related to tips and overtime.

Staying informed about the IRS release schedule ensures a smooth filing process. If you’re unsure about specific forms, visit IRS.gov or contact a tax advisor. Remember, early preparation can maximize your refund and minimize stress. For the latest updates, bookmark the IRS draft forms page and check back regularly.