The 2026 tax year brings significant changes as provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expire. Here's what you need to know about the updated brackets.
2026 Federal Tax Brackets (Single Filers)
- 10%: $0 - $11,600
- 12%: $11,601 - $47,150
- 22%: $47,151 - $100,525
- 24%: $100,526 - $191,950
- 32%: $191,951 - $243,725
- 35%: $243,726 - $609,350
- 37%: Over $609,350
Key Changes for 2026
Standard deduction: $15,000 (single), $30,000 (married filing jointly). Child tax credit: $2,000 per child (potentially $3,600 if expansion passes). State and local tax (SALT) deduction cap remains at $10,000.
Tax-Saving Strategies
Max out pre-tax retirement contributions (401k: $23,500, IRA: $7,000). Consider Roth conversions if you're in a temporarily low bracket. Harvest tax losses in your investment portfolio. Donate appreciated stock instead of cash to charities.
