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February 20, 2026
Tax season is here! While that might not be the most exciting news for the average person, it’s important to keep the following in mind so that filing your tax return is a smoother and less tedious process. You may also be able to save a little time and money in the process!
First of all, a quick reminder that your tax returns are due April 15th. If you think you need more time and want to avoid a failure-to-file penalty, you will need to fill out IRS Form 4868 (Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return) by April 15th. Remember that this does not typically give you an extension on paying your taxes, as your estimated tax liability payment is still due by April 15th!
If you think you may be entitled to receive a refund, you should consider setting up direct deposit. Electronically filing your taxes and choosing direct deposit is the fastest way to get your refund. When utilizing direct deposit, the IRS issues over 90% of refunds in less than 21 days of filing. Refunds from paper filings can take up to 6 to 8 weeks from the date the IRS receives your return.
Direct deposit also provides improved security by avoiding the mail, which can leave your refund susceptible to mail fraud.
If you don’t have a bank account, you should consider opening a no-cost personal checking account in order to set up direct deposit when you file. New Tripoli Bank’s personal checking account has no minimum balance requirement to open and no monthly maintenance fees. Setting up a new account can be done easily online or at one of our local branches. Please let us know how we can best help you.
Certain individuals are eligible to have their basic tax returns prepared and filed for free, allowing them to save time and money. Available options to consider include the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, the IRS’s Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs, and the IRS’ Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which connect consumers with IRS-certified tax preparers.
Also, if your adjusted gross income is $89,000 or less, you are eligible to prepare and file your income tax returns for free online through the IRS Free File portal.
Active-duty service members, retired and honorably discharged veterans, family members managing the affairs of eligible service members, and survivors of deceased service members can prepare and file their tax returns for free through MilTax.
Tax season is a prime time for scammers looking to prey upon the confusion of tax filers. Remember that the IRS will never initiate contact with taxpayers via email, text messages, or social media channels to request personal and financial information.
If you plan to pay a tax preparer to help file your taxes, make sure to check the preparer’s qualifications before handing over any personal or financial information. You can use the IRS directory of federal tax return preparers to check their credentials and verify their information with the Better Business Bureau. Be wary of a preparer that makes guarantees about getting larger refunds, asks you to pay with cryptocurrency or even gift cards; these could be signs of a scam.
You should consult a tax professional for any questions you may have. Depending on your individual situation, their guidance can be instrumental in having your return filed accurately as well as getting you the maximum refund you are entitled to. There are many free options available and I hope that the tips laid out in this article will help you have a less stressful tax season this year!
Matthew Koncz is New Tripoli Bank's Controller and an Assistant Vice President. He has been with the Bank for over seven years and is responsible for monitoring New Tripoli Bank's financial health. He is also a Certified Public Accountant and has completed educational programs for CPAs offered by various accounting firms and organizations including PA Bankers.
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