IRS Raises Standard Deduction for Inflation: Here's What Changes
Annual inflation adjustments lift the standard deduction and reshape who itemizes.
By Marcus Whitfield · June 21, 2026
Marcus Whitfield
IRS Correspondent
Marcus Whitfield covers the Internal Revenue Service, federal tax administration, and taxpayer services. He has reported on filing seasons, agency modernization, and enforcement for more than a decade.
Latest by Marcus
IRS Adjusts Tax Brackets for Inflation, Easing 'Bracket Creep'
Wider income bands mean many workers keep more of a raise before moving up a bracket.
By Marcus Whitfield · June 6, 2026
IRS Expands Direct File as Free Filing Reaches More States
The government's own free filing tool grows, offering an alternative to paid software.
By Marcus Whitfield · May 13, 2026
IRS Opens Tax Filing Season: What Every Filer Needs to Know
The agency begins accepting returns as taxpayers weigh new thresholds, refund timing, and free-file options.
By Marcus Whitfield · May 9, 2026
IRS Warns of Rising Tax Scams: How to Spot the Fakes
Impersonators use phone, text, and email to steal money and identities during filing season.
By Marcus Whitfield · April 21, 2026
IRS Online Account Adds Tools to Manage Taxes Year-Round
Taxpayers can now view balances, payment plans, and notices in one digital dashboard.
By Marcus Whitfield · April 19, 2026
Can't Pay Your Tax Bill? IRS Payment Plans, Explained
Short-term and long-term installment agreements spread the cost and limit collection action.
By Marcus Whitfield · April 1, 2026
IRS Phases In New 1099-K Threshold for Payment Apps
Sellers on Venmo, PayPal, and marketplaces face lower reporting limits after repeated delays.
By Marcus Whitfield · February 27, 2026
IRS Reminds Freelancers of Quarterly Estimated Tax Deadlines
Missing the four annual payment dates can trigger penalties even if you get a refund.
By Marcus Whitfield · February 15, 2026
IRS Works Through Return Backlog as Processing Speeds Improve
Funding and hiring have cut wait times, though paper returns remain the slow lane.
By Marcus Whitfield · January 25, 2026
Filed a Mistake? How IRS Amended Returns Work
Form 1040-X lets you correct errors, and the process is now partly electronic.
By Marcus Whitfield · January 13, 2026