IRS Interest Rates Stay at 7% for Fourth Quarter 2026
The IRS kept its interest rate on unpaid individual tax, and on individual refunds it owes, at 7% a year for October through December 2026, compounded daily.
IRS updates
Recent IRS changes that affect ordinary taxpayers, explained in plain English with a link to the official announcement.
IRS Raises 2026 Mileage Rate to 76 Cents From July 1
Citing higher fuel prices, the IRS raised the business mileage rate to 76 cents per mile for the second half of 2026. Miles driven earlier in the year still use 72.5 cents.
IRS Replaces First-Time Abate With Automatic Penalty Relief
A new IRS program called the Automatic Exemption from Penalty skips late-filing, late-payment and late-deposit penalties for people and businesses with a clean three-year record, with no request needed.
IRS Launches Tax Debt Help Tool for People Who Owe
A new IRS online tool asks a few questions about your situation and points you to options such as payment plans, a temporary collection delay or an offer in compromise.
2026 401(k) Limit Rises to $24,500, IRA Limit to $7,500
The IRS raised 2026 contribution limits for 401(k), 403(b), 457 and IRA accounts, along with catch-up amounts and income limits for Roth IRAs and the Saver's Credit.
Form 1099-K Threshold Returns to $20,000 and 200 Payments
Payment apps and online marketplaces again send Form 1099-K only above $20,000 and 200 transactions. The income is still taxable either way. Here is what the IRS confirmed.
2026 Standard Deduction and Tax Brackets Announced
The IRS released its tax year 2026 inflation adjustments. Here are the new standard deductions, bracket thresholds and credit amounts that apply to returns you'll file in 2027.
IRS Phases Out Paper Refund Checks: What Changes for You
Starting Sept. 30, 2025, the IRS began phasing out paper refund checks for individuals. Most refunds now go by direct deposit, and a new CP53E notice covers missing bank details.