CHICAGO (WLS) — As the 2026 tax season kicks off, there are several key changes that taxpayers should be aware of, particularly concerning potential deductions that could increase their tax returns significantly.

According to financial experts, the average tax return is expected to increase by $1,000 this year, offering taxpayers a reason to revisit their filing strategies.

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“Parents will see an increase in the child tax credit, which has risen to $2,200 for each dependent child under the age of 17,” explained Lisa Greene-Lewis, a CPA and tax specialist with TurboTax. “Homeowners will benefit from an increased SALT cap, now allowing deductions up to $40,000 for state and local income tax and property taxes. Additionally, if you earn qualified tips, you can now deduct up to $25,000.”

Greene-Lewis highlighted additional deductions for those in professions that typically involve overtime, such as police officers and firefighters, who can deduct up to $12,500.

Moreover, individuals aged 65 and older will be eligible for a new deduction of $6,000, which is in addition to the standard deduction, providing substantial relief for seniors.

If you’re 65 or over, there is a new deduction of $6,000, in addition to the standard deduction.

“What we’re seeing is filers will see up to $1,000 increase in their refund depending on your situation,” Greene-Lewis said.

Experts say the “Working Families Tax Cuts Act” created the changes.

“For instance, the earned income tax credit, that’s a substantial credit for a family with three kids. That’s up to $8,046. But the IRS says one out of five people miss that. There’s another one that the IRS says one out of five people miss, and that’s the retirement savers credit. And that’s just a credit you get just for investing in your retirement,” Greene-Lewis said.

Remind your tax preparer to check for all deductions or make sure the software you use flags them.

There’s also a scam warning.

Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication so thieves can’t access your tax filing software. Know that the IRS will never call, text or ask for money or your social security number. And file early.

Filing early and electronically also will help you get your refund faster. Don’t forget to ask about deducting charitable donations.

You can also qualify for free tax filing through the IRS, TurboTax and other tax software services.