Tax Season Guide: What Tax Forms to Expect & IRS Updates for 2025–2026
Tax Season Guide: What Tax Forms to Expect & IRS Updates for 2025–2026
As tax season approaches, many investors and retirees find themselves asking the same questions:
What tax forms should I expect? When will they arrive? And how do I know which ones apply to me?
To help bring clarity to the process, we’ve created two helpful resources for you:
- A Tax Guide, updated with current IRS information and key thresholds to be aware of this filing season
- A collection of common tax forms, so you know what documents may show up and where they come from
These resources are designed to help you stay organized, informed, and prepared as you work with your tax professional.
View & Download the Common Tax Forms:
View & Download the Tax Guide:
A few important things to know before you file
Before diving into specific forms, there are a few timing considerations worth keeping in mind:
- Some tax forms, particularly consolidated 1099s, are often issued initially and later amended
- Because of this, many taxpayers benefit from waiting until mid-to-late March to finalize their return to avoid amendment fees
- If there was no reportable activity in an account (no contributions or distributions), you may not receive a tax form for that account
The Tax Guide includes updated IRS figures, deadlines, and contribution limits to help you understand the broader landscape, while your tax professional determines what applies to your return.
Common tax forms you may receive
1099 Forms (Taxable Investment Accounts)
If you had activity in a taxable investment account, you may receive one or more 1099 forms, including 1099-DIV, 1099-INT, 1099-MISC, or a consolidated 1099.
- Typically available End of February
- Issued by your custodian (such as Schwab, Pershing, Dunham, or other providers)
- Often mailed to you or available digitally if you’ve elected e-delivery through various custodians or brokerages
You can review examples and explanations in our Tax Forms resource to better understand what each form represents.
1099-R & Form 8606 (IRA & Roth Activity)
Distributions from IRAs or Roth IRAs, including Roth conversions, generally generate a 1099-R, which is typically available by the end of February.
If you completed a Backdoor Roth IRA conversion, your tax professional will also file Form 8606. This form is not issued by custodians but is prepared as part of your tax return.
5498 (IRA & Roth IRA Contributions)
Form 5498 confirms IRA and Roth IRA contributions for the year.
- Typically issued mid-to-late-May, after the standard tax filing deadline
- Used primarily for record-keeping if contribution amounts match what was reported on your return
- If discrepancies exist, your tax professional may advise an amendment
K-1 Forms (Partnerships, LLCs, and S Corporations)
If you hold investments structured as partnerships, LLCs, or S Corporations, you may receive a K-1.
- Filing deadline is March 15
- Forms may be extended to September 15
- If you expect a K-1, filing an extension is often necessary
IRA contribution reminder
You can still make 2025 IRA contributions up until you file your tax return or April 15, 2026:
- Under age 50: $7,000
- Age 50 and older: $8,000
If you’re unsure whether you’ve already contributed the maximum, or would like help making a contribution before filing, our team can help coordinate that process.
Looking ahead: Updated IRS information for 2026
The IRS has released updated contribution limits and thresholds for 2026, including changes to:
- Employer-sponsored retirement plans (401(k), 403(b), and similar plans)
- IRA contribution and catch-up limits
- Catch-up contribution rules under SECURE 2.0
All updated insights are found in our Tax Guide, giving you a detailed overview of expectations for 2026.
Download the Tax Guide (Updated IRS Information):
Access Common Tax Forms:
We’re here to help
If you need help locating your tax documents, accessing your online accounts, or understanding which forms you’ve received, our team is always happy to assist.
For tax-specific questions or filing decisions, we encourage you to work directly with your tax professional, who will determine how these forms and IRS updates apply to your individual situation.
Disclosure
Alpha 3 Wealth Management and its advisors are not tax professionals and do not provide tax or legal advice. The information provided is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered tax advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change. You should consult a qualified tax professional (CPA, EA, or tax attorney) regarding your individual tax situation before taking any action.