We know not all of you have filed yet. With less than a month to go, we urge you to get going. And as inspiration here are five last minute tax return tips for 2026.

1. Make Contributions to your Qualifying IRA

The official tax date this year is April 15, 2026. You must file on or before this date. However, you have until the end of the year to make qualified contributions. This includes accounts such as a 401(k), 403(b), and other retirement accounts. This also goes for those of you with qualifying Health Savings Accounts. Be aware of the maximum contributions allowed for deductions in your age and filing status.

Did you know? Approximately 59% of American adults had a retirement account such as a 403(b) or 401(k) in 2025? Source: Gallup

2. Consider Itemizing Your Tax Return

You may have used the short form in years past. It may have worked for you. But tax laws and rules are changing. It is always advisable to ask your tax return professional which method works best for you. The short rule is you should itemize if your deductions exceed the standard minimum deduction for your age and income bracket. Itemized deductions can fall into five major groups:

  1. Medical expenses that are under 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.
  2. Home mortgage interest. Your mortgage company will send you a Form 1098.
  3. Any state and local taxes paid on income, property, or other.
  4. Charitable contributions including cash donations, goods donations, and miles driven.
  5. Any losses due to a natural disaster that has been recognized by the federal government.

3. Hold Invoices for a Bit

Are you on the verge of going into a higher tax bracket? You may want to lay off sending out invoices until next tax year. Yes, your pay will be delayed by a few days or weeks, but will be made up for in saved taxes. Be sure to consult your bookkeeper to know the best way to go.

4. Use a Roth IRA

Many of our clients will move funds from a traditional IRA to a qualified Roth IRA. There are penalties associated with the movement. However, this money can be withdrawn from your Roth account without any fees. The strategy for this can be complex and is based on fees and taxes paid versus market volatility. As before, consult your bookkeeper or financial professional to know the best way to go

5. Don’t Miss the RMD Date

Those of you who are 73 or older should be aware of your Required Minimum Distribution. The deadline for this is December 31, 2026 to take it from your qualifying retirement accounts. You can accrue fees of up to 25% if you miss this date. You may consider donating an amount to charity to reduce any taxes on your RMD.

More on Last Minute Tax Return Tips in Houston

Do you want to make sure you get your tax return done in time and correctly? Contact us if you live in the area and need tax return help Mon through Friday and now on Saturdays too until after tax time.