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LEARNING CENTER

Key Tax Deadlines for February 2026: Stay Informed

February serves as a crucial month for individuals managing their taxes. This guide will walk you through essential tasks like estimated tax payments, tip reporting, and updating your withholding exemptions.

Estimated Tax Payment Alert: February 2

Didn't pay your last installment by January 15? You can file your 2025 income tax return (Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR) by February 2 to avoid any penalties associated with late payments for your last estimated tax bill. In cases where filing by this date isn’t feasible, ensure your tax return and payments are completed by April 15.

Tips and Salary: Reporting by February 10

If you’ve received $20 or more in tips during January, it’s time to report. Use IRS Form 4070 or your own documented statement with your signature, personal information, and details of the total tips earned to inform your employer. Remember, your employer needs this information to correctly withhold FICA and income tax from your regular wages.

In instances where your wages fall short in covering the tax, your employer will record the outstanding amount on your W-2 form under box 8. Don't worry, you'll just need to address this when filing your annual return.

Withholding Exemption Update: February 17

If you previously claimed an exemption from withholding taxes via Form W-4, be sure to submit a new W-4 to your employer by February 17 to extend this exemption for the coming year.

Weekend and Holiday Extensions

When tax deadlines collide with weekends or holidays, deadlines automatically push to the next business day. This helpful nudge ensures you won’t miss a beat.

Exceptions for Disaster Designations

If you reside in a FEMA-designated disaster zone, you may qualify for additional extensions. Stay updated by checking out resources from FEMA and the IRS’s disaster relief announcements to understand your situation fully.

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At Cherokee CPA, we're here to support you through this financial journey. Schedule a consultation with us to explore how we can streamline your tax planning and ensure compliance with these critical deadlines.

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