Your January 2026 Compliance Kickoff: What’s New in IRS, FTC & SEC Rules This Year

January always feels like a clean slate, new planners, new goals, new energy. But for small business owners, it’s also the month when compliance updates hit all at once. And this year, the IRS, FTC, and SEC have each rolled out changes that matter for solopreneurs, gig workers, and women over 50 running ethical, audit‑safe businesses.

Let’s break down what’s new for 2026 in a way that feels clear, doable, and empowering.

Photo by Maddi Bazzocco on Upsplash

IRS: The Big 2026 Tax Shifts You Need to Know

The IRS has released its 2026 inflation adjustments and tax law changes, and they’re significant. According to Integra Biz Solutions, the standard deduction is rising to:

• $32,200 for married filing jointly

• $16,100 for single filers

• $24,150 for heads of household

This matters because it affects whether you should itemize or take the standard deduction. Most solopreneurs will still take the standard deduction, but if you have high medical, charitable, or mortgage expenses, itemizing may be worth exploring.

QBI Deduction Is Now Permanent

The 20% Qualified Business Income deduction, a huge benefit for pass‑through businesses, is officially permanent starting in 2026. If you’re a sole proprietor, LLC, S‑corp, or partnership, this deduction continues to reduce your taxable income.

Bonus Depreciation Returns to 100%

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your laptop, camera, office furniture, or software, 2026 is a great year to do it. The IRS restored 100% bonus depreciation, meaning you can deduct the full cost of qualifying assets immediately.

1099 Thresholds Are Changing

• 1099‑NEC threshold increases to $2,000

• 1099‑K threshold remains at $20,000 and 200 transactions

This means your bookkeeping systems need to be updated now, especially if you pay contractors or receive payments through platforms like PayPal or Stripe.

FTC: New Focus on Digital Transparency

The FTC is entering 2026 with a renewed focus on digital marketing transparency. While the agency hasn’t released new rules yet, enforcement trends show they’re prioritizing:

• Clearer influencer disclosures

• Crackdowns on misleading earnings claims

• Subscription and auto‑renewal compliance

• AI‑generated content transparency

If you promote affiliate links, run a membership, or sell digital products, now is the time to review your disclosures and make sure they’re “clear and conspicuous.”

SEC: Small Business Capital Formation Gets Attention

The SEC’s 2025–2026 Priority Guidance Plan focuses on small-business capital formation, digital assets, and deregulation. This matters if you:

• Use crowdfunding

• Plan to raise capital

• Offer revenue‑share deals

• Invest in other businesses

The SEC is prioritizing clarity around Regulation Crowdfunding and digital asset compliance, both areas where small businesses often struggle.

Final Thoughts

January doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a bit of clarity and a few simple updates to your systems, you can start 2026 feeling organized, empowered, and fully compliant.

Legal Disclosure:

CompliantHer™ program of (Relannford Enterprises LLC) is not a law firm. This document is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not provide medical, legal, or financial advice. If you have questions about your specific situation, please consult a physician, attorney, or accountant licensed to practice in your state and/or country.

Affiliate Disclosure:

Some of the links in this course are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, CompliantHer™ (Relannford Enterprises LLC) may earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link.