Tax Season Is Here: What to Expect & How to Stay Ahead
Tax season has a way of showing up quickly every year.
For many people, it brings the same questions:
- What documents should I be watching for?
- When will everything arrive?
- Did anything change this year?
The good news is that a little preparation can make tax season feel far less stressful. Our goal is simple: help you stay organized, avoid surprises, and make confident decisions as you move toward the April deadline.
Understanding Your Tax Forms & Timing
One of the most common frustrations during tax season is waiting on paperwork.
Many investment and retirement accounts issue multiple tax documents, and some of the most important forms, especially consolidated 1099s, are often updated later in the filing season. Because of this, filing too early can sometimes lead to corrected forms and amended returns.
For many households, waiting until mid-to-late March can help reduce unnecessary revisions and extra filing costs.
To make things easier, we’ve created resources that walk through:
• The most common tax forms you may receive
• Typical delivery timelines
• What each document means for your return
You can also reference our updated Tax Guide for key deadlines, contribution limits, and important IRS updates for the year.
There’s Still Time for 2025 IRA Contributions
Many people don’t realize that retirement contributions can still impact last year’s taxes.
You can make 2025 IRA contributions up until you file your tax return or April 15, whichever comes first:
• $7,000 if you are under age 50
• $8,000 if you are age 50 or older
If you’re unsure whether you’ve already contributed, or want to explore whether it makes sense before filing, this is a great time to review your plan.
Looking Ahead: Higher Contribution Limits in 2026
Planning doesn’t stop with this year’s return. The IRS has announced several contribution increases beginning in 2026 that may create new savings opportunities.
Employer Retirement Plans
(401(k), 403(b), and most 457 plans)
• Employee contribution limit: $24,500
• Catch-up contribution (50+): $8,000
• Special catch-up (ages 60–63): $11,250
• Maximum total contribution: $72,000
SECURE 2.0 Update to Know
Starting in 2026, individuals earning more than $150,000 in the prior year will need to make catch-up contributions as Roth (after-tax) rather than pre-tax contributions.
Traditional & Roth IRAs
• Annual contribution limit: $7,500
• Catch-up contribution: $1,100
• Maximum for age 50+: $8,600
• Income phase-out ranges have increased
SIMPLE & Small Business Plans
• SIMPLE deferral limit: $17,000
• SIMPLE catch-up: $4,000
• SEP-IRA maximum contribution: $72,000
These updates may not change your immediate filing, but they can influence longer-term planning decisions.
A Quick Reminder About Roles
We’re here to help you stay organized, understand your accounts, and coordinate your financial plan.
For tax-specific filing decisions or advice, we always recommend working directly with your CPA or tax professional so your return reflects your unique situation.
The Bigger Picture
Tax season is just one checkpoint in your financial life, not the destination.
When handled thoughtfully, it becomes an opportunity to review progress, make strategic contributions, and ensure your financial plan continues supporting the life you’re building.
Money matters. Life matters more. And our role is to help you feel confident about both.
