📅 2026 Update: New Tax Changes and Trends

Since the original article was written, several states have enacted new tax laws that impact how businesses report and pay taxes. These changes include the introduction of Pass-Through Entity Taxes (PTET) in multiple states, which affects how partnerships and certain business entities handle their taxes. The earlier article continues further down the page, covering essential tax topics and procedures.

🌍 Recent State Tax Changes

Several states have established PTETs similar to Illinois' entity-level tax. This includes:

  • 🌴 Hawaii: Enacted Act 50, SLH 2023, on June 1, 2023, creating a PTET.
  • 🌽 Iowa: Passed House File 352 on May 11, 2023, introducing a PTET.
  • 🏛️ Indiana: Legislation enacted on February 22, 2023, established a PTET.

🏞️ PTET Adoption Across the Country

By 2026, many states have followed suit with similar tax laws. For example:

  • 🦙 Montana: Passed SB 554 on May 19, 2023, introducing a PTET.
  • 🏞️ Kentucky: Enacted HB 360, Section 16, on March 24, 2023, creating a PTET.
  • 🌊 Maine: Recently passed L.D. 2212 on April 10, 2026, effective for tax years starting January 1, 2026.

📄 Current Fees and Costs

In Connecticut, as of October 2026, the DMV has introduced new fees for vehicle title services. For specific amounts, individuals can refer to the Connecticut DMV website.

📜 Important Forms and Processing Times

Several IRS forms remain crucial for tax filings:

  • 📝 Form 3911: Used to trace unreceived refunds. Processing times can vary.
  • ⏳ Form 8716: For automatic extensions on certain business tax returns. Processing times depend on the IRS center.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 🌟 Multiple states enacted PTETs similar to Illinois' tax structure.
  • 💰 Connecticut has new fees for vehicle title services.
  • 📝 Important IRS forms include Form 3911 and Form 8716, with varying processing times.
  • 📆 Changes may affect tax filings for partnerships and certain business entities.

💡 Tips for Navigating State and Federal Taxes

Consider discussing your situation with an attorney.

🏢 Understand State Tax Variations

Different states have unique tax laws. Research the specific requirements for your state to ensure compliance and maximize deductions.

🗓️ Keep Track of Deadlines

Note important tax deadlines. This includes deadlines for submitting IRS forms like Form 3911 and Form 8716 to avoid penalties.

📄 Use Available Forms Effectively

Familiarize yourself with IRS forms that apply to your situation. Forms like 1065 for partnerships and 4506 for requesting copies of tax returns are essential.

🆓 Explore Free Tax Help Options

Utilize free services such as IRS Free File, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) for help with tax preparation.

🔄 Stay Updated on Tax Law Changes

Regularly check for updates on tax laws and filing procedures. Knowledge of recent changes can help optimize your tax strategy.

🏆 Tax Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section reviews various tax services based on Trustpilot ratings, which reflect user experiences and satisfaction. These rankings are based on data checked in October 2026, with scores that can change over time. Star ratings are just one way to gauge service quality, as unhappy customers often leave more reviews than satisfied ones.

🥇 1. Jackson Hewitt Tax Service

Jackson Hewitt Tax Service has been rated 4.2 on Trustpilot. It is known for its nationwide tax preparation services, making it accessible for many taxpayers. However, some reviewers have expressed concerns about customer service responsiveness.

🥈 2. KBO Tax & Accounting Services

KBO Tax & Accounting Services holds a Trustpilot score of 4.5. This service is recognized for offering nationwide tax preparation, bookkeeping, and accounting assistance. A drawback noted by users is that there are limited in-person office locations.

🥉 3. SMAART Tax

SMAART Tax averages 4.4 on Trustpilot. This company is known for its virtual tax services available in all 50 states. However, it primarily offers online assistance with limited in-person consultations.

4️⃣ Advanta Tax

Advanta Tax has a Trustpilot score of 4.3. This service is well-known for providing nationwide tax services, including IRS resolution and state tax debt assistance. Some clients have reported delays in service, which may affect response times.

5️⃣ TaxSlayer

TaxSlayer has been rated 4.0 on Trustpilot. It is known for its affordable online tax preparation software. Users have reported occasional issues with software glitches, which may impact user experience.

6️⃣ Libre Tax Service

Libre Tax Service holds a Trustpilot score of 4.1. This service is known for online tax preparation and IRS audit defense. Some users have found the website navigation challenging, which could hinder access to services.

🆓 Free Tax Assistance Options

Free government and nonprofit options include IRS Free File, VITA, and TCE, offering assistance to those who need help with tax preparation. These services help ensure that eligible taxpayers can file their returns without incurring extra costs.

🔎 Service Comparison Checklist

  • 📊 Check user reviews and ratings for service quality.
  • 💼 Look for services that specialize in your specific tax situation.
  • 💲 Compare pricing among different tax services.
  • 🕒 Evaluate processing times for forms and refunds.
  • 🗺️ Confirm availability of local or virtual assistance.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 What is a Pass-Through Entity Tax (PTET)?

A PTET is a tax paid at the entity level rather than by individual owners. This tax structure allows businesses to pass their income through to owners while paying taxes at the entity level.

📅 When are the deadlines for filing IRS forms?

Deadlines vary depending on the form. For example, Form 1065 is generally due on the 15th day of the 3rd month after the partnership's tax year ends.

💻 How can I access IRS forms?

IRS forms can be accessed through the IRS website, where you can find a wide range of forms and publications for your tax filing needs.

🛠️ What should I do if my tax refund is delayed?

If your refund has not been received, you can complete Form 3911 to request a trace of your refund from the IRS.

📞 Can I get help with my tax return for free?

Yes, there are several free options available, such as IRS Free File, VITA, and TCE, which provide assistance to eligible taxpayers.

📈 How do recent tax law changes affect me?

Recent tax law changes can impact how you file your taxes, including new PTETs and state-specific regulations. It is important to stay informed about these changes to optimize your tax situation.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Taxes

Several recent court rulings have addressed various aspects of tax law, impacting how taxes are interpreted and applied.

For more information on recent rulings, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Corporate Income Tax Forms

Seller : Form Application for Refund or Credit 


Buyer : Form Buyers Declaration for Refund of Retail Sales Tax

Washington Tax

Sales Tax Forms

Exemption Form

Form Local Sales and Use Tax Addendum

Form Application for Refund of Use Tax

Form Consumer Use Tax Return

The Washington state tax burden ranks 35th among the 50 states. Washingtonians, on average 8.9% of their total income on Washington state taxes. This is slightly less than 1% below the national average of 9.7% Washington residents pay about $4,334 in Washington state taxes annually. Washington is mostly a rural state with a diversified economy with healthy agricultural, industrial, and high-tech sectors. Wine is Washington state's greatest export in addition to being home to technology giants like Microsoft.

 


Sales Taxes 

The Washington state tax on general consumption of goods and services stands at a rate of 6.5%. 6.5% is the average sales tax rate in Washington. Different counties and cities have different needs; thus, sales taxes from county to county vary.  Washington state collects the bulk of the sales tax. However, counties and cities provide for the varied sales tax rates. In Seattle, the sales tax is 8.8% Sales tax in Seattle accounts for a fifth of its municipal tax revenue. King County, where Seattle is located, gets a share of Seattle's sales tax and so does the State of Washington.

Local sales taxes in smaller Seattle cities like Yakima are about 8%. Washington state taxes on both inconspicuous and conspicuous consumption in rural communities are lower. Local governments use less than half of their total revenue to provide basic government services at the county and municipal level of government. Washington State sales taxes are applicable to recreation services, sales of extended warranties, construction/installation services, and most other service oriented industries.

Food, for the most part, is not subject to tax. As of 2010, Washington has made the sale of bottled water, candy, and gum subject to Washington state taxes. Cigarette taxes in Washington are at $2.02 per pack of twenty. Washington Gasoline taxes taxes are higher than the average, at 37.5 cents per gallon. Washington's gas taxes are the third highest in the United States.

Property Taxes


 

Washington state taxes on property ownership are collected at both the local and state level. Real estate properties are appraised according to market value. Real estate appraisers are employed by the county government. Washington's local governments collect the bulk of property taxes. Most of the local governments' services are funded by revenue from the property tax.

A combination of sales taxes and property taxes are levied to fund schools, libraries, fire departments, and the municipal and county police departments. Property taxpayers spend an average of $256 annually in property taxes. Metropolitan areas are taxed higher than rural areas.

Seniors and Disabled individuals with disposable incomes less than $35,000 may qualify for property tax exemptions. Homeowners, who are not disabled or over 65, must have a combined disposable income of $57,000 or less to qualify for property tax deferral.

 


Income Taxes 


 

Washington state does not impose an income tax on individuals and corporations. Washington state taxes on businesses include a gross receipts tax in which a percentage of the company's gross receipts must be paid to the state government.