Key Business Tax Deadlines to Watch in February 2026

Don't Miss These Key Business Tax Deadlines for February 2026

As we get into the swing of the new year, February presents a critical set of deadlines for businesses wrapping up their 2025 tax reporting. From issuing W-2s and 1099s to filing quarterly and annual payroll reports, staying on top of these dates is essential to avoid penalties. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

The Big Push: February 2, 2026 Deadlines

Monday, February 2, is one of the most important dates of the year for business tax filings. Mark your calendar for these key tasks:

W-2s and 1099-NECs

This is the deadline to furnish crucial documents to both individuals and the government.

  • Forms W-2: You must provide 2025 W-2 forms to all employees. Copy A of the W-2s, along with Form W-3 (Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements), must also be filed with the Social Security Administration by this date, whether you file electronically or on paper.
  • Forms 1099-NEC: If your business paid $600 or more for services to independent contractors or other non-employees in 2025, you must issue Form 1099-NEC to them. This form also needs to be filed with the IRS by February 2. Remember, if you're filing 10 or more information returns (like 1099s and W-2s), you are required to file electronically. Our firm can manage this entire process for you, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.

Other Information Returns Due to Recipients

You must also send copies of the following forms to recipients by February 2. The filing deadline with the IRS for these is later (March 1, or April 1 if filing electronically).

  • Form 1098: Mortgage Interest Statement.
  • Other Forms 1099: Includes reporting for rent, royalties, dividends, interest, retirement plan distributions, and more.
  • Form W-2G: For reporting gambling winnings paid out in 2025.

Payroll & Withholding Tax Forms

Several key quarterly and annual reports are due. For these forms, if you have deposited all taxes on time, you may have an extended filing deadline of February 10.

  • Form 941 (Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return): File for the fourth quarter of 2025 and deposit any remaining tax.
  • Form 940 (Employer's Annual Federal Unemployment (FUTA) Tax Return): File for the 2025 tax year. If your undeposited tax is over $500, it must be deposited.
  • Form 943 (Employer's Annual Federal Tax Return for Agricultural Employees): Farm employers must file to report 2025 social security, Medicare, and withheld income tax.
  • Form 945 (Annual Return of Withheld Federal Income Tax): File to report income tax withheld in 2025 on nonpayroll items like pensions, annuities, and backup withholding.

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The Second Wave: February 10, 2026 Extended Deadline

Did you deposit all your employment taxes for the reporting period on time and in full? If so, the IRS gives you a little extra breathing room. The filing deadline for the following forms is extended to February 10:

  • Form 940
  • Form 941
  • Form 943
  • Form 944
  • Form 945
A stack of receipts and coins on a desk, representing tax preparation.

Mid-Month Check-In: February 17, 2026 Reminders

Because of the Presidents' Day holiday, several deadlines fall on Tuesday, February 17.

  • Certain Information Statements Due: Forms 1099-B (Broker Transactions), 1099-S (Real Estate Transactions), and certain 1099-MISC forms (for payments to attorneys or substitute payments) must be furnished to recipients.
  • Monthly Tax Deposits: If you are a monthly depositor, your Social Security, Medicare, and withheld income taxes for January 2026 are due. This also applies to nonpayroll withholding.
  • Begin Withholding for Certain Employees: You must start withholding income tax for employees who claimed an exemption in 2025 but have not submitted a new Form W-4 for 2026.

Important Considerations

What if a Deadline Falls on a Weekend or Holiday?

The IRS automatically extends any due date that falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday to the next business day. This is why some deadlines this year are on February 2 and February 17.

Tax Relief for Disaster Areas

If your business is in a federally declared disaster area, tax deadlines may be extended. It's always wise to check for any special relief provisions that may apply to you. You can find up-to-date information on the official FEMA and IRS websites.

  • FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/declarations
  • IRS: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations

Navigating these deadlines can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. If you need assistance with your 1099s, payroll tax filings, or overall tax strategy, schedule a consultation with our team today. We're here to help you stay compliant and focused on your business.

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If any of these topics caught your attention, please contact to start the conversation!
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