IRS Unveils 2026 Tax Brackets with Inflation Adjustments

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has announced the federal income tax brackets for 2026, incorporating adjustments for inflation. This year’s adjustments aim to provide some relief to taxpayers facing persistently high living costs. Alongside the tax brackets, modifications to the standard deduction have also been revealed, potentially impacting millions of American households.

2026 Tax Brackets and Standard Deductions

The new standard deductions for 2026 are as follows:

• Married couples filing together: $32,200
• Heads of household: $24,150
• Singles and married individuals filing separately: $16,100

The updated tax brackets for married couples filing jointly in 2026 are:

• 10%: $0 to $24,800
• 12%: $24,801 to $100,800
• 22%: $100,801 to $211,100
• 24%: $211,401 to $403,550
• 32%: $403,551 to $512,450
• 35%: $512,451 to $768,700
• 37%: $768,701 and up

For single filers, the tax brackets for 2026 are:

• 10%: $0 to $12,400
• 12%: $12,401 to $50,400
• 22%: $50,401 to $105,700
• 24%: $105,701 to $201,775
• 32%: $201,776 to $256,225
• 35%: $256,225 to $640,600
• 37%: $640,601 and up

Impact and Expectations for Taxpayers

The adjustments reflect ongoing efforts to mitigate the financial strain on taxpayers by aligning tax brackets with inflationary pressures. This change comes as many Americans continue to navigate high costs for essential goods and services. The IRS has not yet announced the official start date for the 2026 tax season. Typically, this occurs in late January, according to TaxAct.

As taxpayers prepare for the upcoming season, understanding these changes will be crucial for effective financial planning. With these adjustments, individuals and families may find opportunities for tax savings that were not available in previous years.

Taxpayers are encouraged to stay informed on the developments from the IRS and consult with tax professionals as the new tax season approaches.