With the 2026 tax year underway, the IRS has released inflation-adjusted figures for tax brackets, standard deductions, and contribution limits. Here's a complete breakdown of what changed — and what it means for your wallet.
2026 Federal Tax Brackets (Single Filers)
- 10%: Up to $12,300
- 12%: $12,301 – $49,850
- 22%: $49,851 – $106,550
- 24%: $106,551 – $203,350
- 32%: $203,351 – $258,050
- 35%: $258,051 – $645,850
- 37%: Over $645,850
💡 Married Filing Jointly: Brackets are doubled for most income thresholds. Check with your tax professional for exact figures.
2026 Standard Deduction
- Single: $15,700
- Married Filing Jointly: $31,400
- Head of Household: $23,350
The standard deduction continues to rise with inflation, meaning fewer taxpayers benefit from itemizing. Review your deductible expenses each year to see which method saves you more.
Retirement Contribution Limits for 2026
- 401(k) / 403(b) / 457: $24,000 employee limit
- Catch-up contribution (age 50+): Additional $7,500
- IRA (Traditional & Roth): $7,500 ($8,500 if 50+)
- SEP-IRA: Up to 25% of compensation, max $71,000
- HSA (self-only): $4,450
- HSA (family): $8,850
Key Expiring Provisions: The TCJA Sunset
Many provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) were set to expire after 2025. Congress extended most of them, but some changes did take effect. Watch for:
- Individual income tax rate adjustments
- Changes to the SALT (State and Local Tax) deduction cap
- Child Tax Credit modifications
- Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) exemption changes
⚠️ Action item: If you haven't reviewed your withholding and estimated tax payments for 2026, do it now. Changes in the law may affect how much you owe.
What Should You Do Right Now?
- Review your W-4 with your employer to adjust withholding
- Max out retirement contributions early in the year
- If self-employed, recalculate quarterly estimated tax payments
- Schedule a mid-year tax planning session to get ahead of your 2026 return
Let's Plan Your 2026 Tax Strategy Now
Don't wait until April. A mid-year review lets us make adjustments before it's too late to save. Book a planning session today.
Schedule a Tax Planning Session