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Here’s how soon folks in Ohio can get their tax refunds in 2026

By Sundi Rose

Tax season is officially upon us and taxpayers will be able to start filing their 2025 federal income tax returns on Jan. 26 with a filing deadline of April 15 for most people.

E-filers who submit their clean return with direct deposit on the first day of the window can expect to receive their refund by the end of February.

How to file

Most workers will receive Forms W‑2 and 1099s by the end of January and the window to file is about 11 weeks, unless you request an extension.

Federal taxes

  • Gather key documents: Tax information, receipts and records of digital assets 
  • Choose your filing method: The IRS has a free option for incomes under $89,000
  • Complete forms: 1040 (or 1040-SR for seniors) and any applicable schedules
  • File and submit: E-file electronically through IRS-approved channels or mail paper forms
  • Track your return status: Use the IRS Where’s My Refund? tool or your online IRS account

State taxes

Ohio uses the Ohio Department of Taxation’s online service and residents generally file the Ohio IT 1040 and, if applicable, a separate school district income tax return

  • Complete your federal return first: Ohio starts with your federal adjusted gross income.
  • Gather key documents: Federal Form 1040, W-2s, 1099s, and any Ohio-specific forms or schedules (such as Ohio schedules of adjustments, credits, or dependents if needed).​
  • Choose your method: E-file through the Ohio Department of Taxation’s online services or approved tax software, or file by mail using the correct-year Ohio forms.
  • Fill out Ohio Form IT 1040: Enter federal AGI, Ohio additions and deductions, credits, residency status, and any school district information if a separate SD 100 is required.
  • Double-check information: Social security numbers, names, current address, math, filing status, and that all required Ohio schedules and income statements (W‑2s, 1099s) are included.
  • Sign and date the return (and your spouse, if filing jointly). Unsigned returns can be delayed or rejected.
  • Track your refund or payment status using Ohio’s online services, and save copies of your returns and supporting documents for at least four years in case the state requests verification.​

If you wind up having to pay, the state of Ohio requires, the Ohio Universal Payment Coupon (OUPC) with your check or money order for any IT 1040 or SD 100 payments.

If you have further questions or concerns, contact ODT by visiting OH|TAX eServices (registration required) and select “Send a Message” under Additional Services or by calling 1-800-282-1780.

When do you typically receive your refund? Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.

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