Chicago, IL (CHAMBANA TODAY) – The Illinois Department of Revenue will begin accepting 2026 individual income tax returns on Monday, Jan. 26, aligning with the start of the federal filing season, the agency announced Tuesday.
Illinois taxpayers will have until Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to file their state income tax returns.
The department is encouraging residents to file electronically and choose direct deposit to receive refunds as quickly and securely as possible. According to the agency, taxpayers who file accurate electronic returns and select direct deposit typically receive refunds within about four weeks.
“We want the tax filing process to be as smooth and stress-free as possible,” said IDOR Director David Harris. He urged taxpayers to gather all income documents, such as W-2s and 1099s, before filing and to submit returns early to avoid delays.
During the 2025 filing season, the department received more than 6.3 million individual income tax returns, with approximately 91 percent filed electronically.
Taxpayers may file for free using MyTax Illinois, the department’s online filing system, which allows users to file with or without creating an account. The system walks filers through a question-and-answer format, performs calculations automatically, and reduces errors by using prepopulated information when available. MyTax Illinois also allows users to make payments, respond to department inquiries, check refund status, and access tax records.
The department is also reminding taxpayers to review their eligibility for tax credits, including the Illinois Earned Income Tax Credit, the Property Tax Credit, and the K–12 Education Expense Credit.
“Tax credits can put more money back in your pocket,” Harris said. “Taking time to review the credits you qualify for can make a real difference.”
Officials also cautioned taxpayers about recent changes to U.S. Postal Service postmark rules. The USPS now uses the date of first automated processing rather than the date mail is dropped off, which could affect time-sensitive filings. Taxpayers who mail returns or payments are encouraged to send them early or request a manual postmark at the post office.
Tax assistance is available through the Illinois Department of Revenue by phone at 1-800-732-8866 or 217-782-3336, with free language assistance offered for individuals with limited English proficiency.
