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Need tax help? Get fast tax assistance at Jackson Hewitt. Find a location today.
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2026 tax changes are here. Will you get a bigger refund?
Just one missed tax credit or deduction could cost you. A Jackson Hewitt Tax Pro can help you understand which 2026 tax changes apply to you, how to avoid costly mistakes, and ways to maximize your tax refund.
2026 tax changes that could impact your refund
Higher income thresholds, a larger standard deduction, updates to certain tax credits, and a new deduction could work in your favor.
| Tax change | What changed for 2026 |
|---|---|
| Tax brackets | Federal tax rates stay the same, but tax brackets increase for 2026. |
| Standard deduction | The standard deduction increases to $16,100 for single filers, $24,150 for head of household filers, and $32,200 for married couples filing jointly. |
| Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) | The maximum EITC increases to $8,231 for taxpayers with 3 or more qualifying children. |
| Child and Dependent Care Credit | The maximum credit rate increases to 50% from 35% of qualified child and dependent care expenses for eligible families. |
| Adoption Tax Credit | The maximum Adoption Tax Credit increases to $17,670 per child, and the refundable portion increases to $5,120. |
| Charitable deduction | New deduction for non-itemizers of up to $1,000 ($2,000 if married filing jointly) in cash donations to eligible charities. |
2026 tax bracket changes
The IRS is raising federal income tax brackets for every filing status in 2026 to keep up with inflation. That could mean less tax, because you’ll pay lower rates on more of your taxable income. The federal tax rates remain the same at 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%.
Your tax rate depends on your taxable income and filing status. See our 2026 federal tax brackets guide for the complete rates and income thresholds for single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, and head of household filers.
Standard deduction changes for tax year 2026
The IRS is raising the standard deduction for every filing status in 2026 to keep up with inflation, which could lower your tax bill and help boost your refund.
| Filing status | 2025 | 2026 | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $15,750 | $16,100 | +$350 |
| Married filing separately | $15,750 | $16,100 | +$350 |
| Head of household | $23,625 | $24,150 | +$525 |
| Married filing jointly | $31,500 | $32,200 | +$700 |
| Qualifying surviving spouse | $31,500 | $32,200 | +$700 |
Child Tax Credit for 2026
The Child Tax Credit is holding steady for 2026. It’s still worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child, with up to $1,700 per qualifying child refundable. That means you could get money back, depending on your income and tax situation.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) changes for 2026
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) increased in 2026, with a maximum credit of $8,231. It’s fully refundable, so if you qualify, it could boost your refund and make filing worthwhile, even if you’re not required to. The amount of your credit depends on your earned income, filing status, and the number of qualifying children you claim.
Maximum EITC amounts: 2025 vs. 2026
| Number of qualifying children | 2025 | 2026 | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | $649 | $664 | +$15 |
| 1 child | $4,328 | $4,427 | +$99 |
| 2 children | $7,152 | $7,316 | +$164 |
| 3 or more children | $8,046 | $8,231 | +$185 |
To qualify for the EITC in 2026, your investment income can’t exceed $12,200, up $250 from 2025’s limit of $11,950.
Big Beautiful Bill tax changes still relevant for 2026
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduced several tax breaks that still apply this year. If you earn tips or overtime pay, are 65 or older, or have recently bought a new car, you may qualify for deductions that could help you keep more of your money. Talk to a Jackson Hewitt Tax Pro to learn how.
No tax on overtime
Deduct up to $12,500 ($25,000 joint) of qualified overtime
No tax on tips
Deduct up to $25,000 per tax return in qualified tips
New car loan interest deduction
Deduct up to $10,000 in qualified new car loan interest
Up to $6,000 deduction for seniors
In addition to your standard or itemized deductions
Navigate the 2026 tax changes with a Tax Pro and avoid mistakes
Jackson Hewitt Tax Pros are up to date on all the latest tax changes and understand your financial situation, no matter how simple or complex. With so many new tax changes, don’t get lost in the confusion of it all and risk not getting the most money back. Meet with a local expert today to ensure you’re getting your biggest tax refund.
Your money matters. Backed by our guarantees.
Filing taxes can be stressful even when there aren’t so many tax law changes. But you can rest easy when you tax with Jack. We have the guarantees you need.
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Jackson Hewitt Tax Pros don’t stop working on your return until every credit and deduction are accounted for to get you back every dollar you deserve. We guarantee your maximum refund.
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If we make a mistake on your tax return, we will pay you! You deserve to feel certain your taxes are done right, year after year, and we’ll guarantee that.
Because trust, guarantees, convenience & money all matter
Lifetime Accuracy Guarantee
If there is an error preparing your return resulting in an increased tax liability, the local office that prepared your return will reimburse you for penalties and interest (but not additional taxes) owed. You must notify us within 30 days of receiving initial notice from a taxing authority and provide necessary documents and/or assistance. Terms, restrictions, and conditions apply. Most offices are independently owned and operated.
Biggest Refund Guarantee
FEDERAL RETURNS ONLY. If you are entitled to a refund larger than we initially determined, we’ll refund the tax preparation fees paid for that filed return (other product and service fees excluded) and give you an additional $100. You must submit a valid claim and file an amended return with Jackson Hewitt by the annual IRS deadline for the year of your tax return. Same tax facts must apply. Terms, restrictions, and conditions apply. Most offices are independently owned and operated.
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Money in minutes
The Money Today Guarantee is only available to clients who (i) are approved for an Early Tax Refund Advance loan; and (ii) elect and are eligible to receive loan funds on a prepaid card. Loan available during hours of operation. Hours vary by location. Loan application must be submitted by 11pm local time. If funds are not credited to your card before 12am local time, Jackson Hewitt will credit $50 within 2 weeks to your card if available or provide you a $50 eGift card. Fees, terms, and conditions apply to the prepaid card. The Early Tax Refund Advance (ETRA) is a loan secured by, and paid back with, your tax refund and is offered by First Century Bank, N.A. Loan amounts are determined by your expected federal refund, less authorized fees and underwriting. Loan amounts are $300, $500, $1,000, and $1,500. To be eligible for the $1,500 ETRA loan, your expected federal refund, less authorized fees, must be at least $5,000. Most common ETRA loan amount approved is $300. ETRA loan is subject to underwriting and approval. Loan proceeds are typically available on the same day of approval, if disbursed on a prepaid card offered at Jackson Hewitt offices, or in 1-5 business days with direct deposit. Terms and restrictions apply. For details visit jacksonhewitt.com/loans. Jackson Hewitt is a Rhode Island Licensed Loan Broker and holds other relevant licenses for the locations where this product is offered. If approved, a finance charge applies except for residents of CT and NE.