Release Your Taxes Act of 2026 (H.R. 8637)

Summary

Makes current and future Members of Congress share their tax returns with the public by putting them in an online database for everyone to see.

What problem does this solve?

The public often lacks a clear view of the financial situations of their elected officials, which can hide potential conflicts of interest. This bill creates a public database of tax returns for all Members of Congress and candidates to increase transparency.

What does this bill do?

Mandates tax return disclosure

Requires all current Members of Congress and candidates for Congress to submit their federal income tax returns to be made public.

Creates a public tax return database

Directs the Clerk of the House and Secretary of the Senate to create and maintain a public website with all submitted tax returns.

Names non-compliant individuals

Requires the names of individuals who fail to submit their tax returns to be promptly listed on a public website.

Sets quick submission deadlines

Requires individuals to submit their tax filings within two business days of filing them with the IRS.

Covers individuals who don't file taxes

Requires individuals who are not required to file a tax return to submit a statement explaining why.

Who does this affect?

Members of Congress
Candidates for Congress

What is the real world impact?

•

Increases government transparency

Creates a public database of tax returns for Members of Congress and candidates. This allows voters to see potential financial conflicts of interest and hold officials accountable.

When does this start?

This bill applies to tax returns for the 2025 tax year and all following years, and it includes several deadlines for submission.

Initial submission for current officials

Current Members of Congress and candidates must submit any tax returns filed during the year the law is passed within 30 days.

Submission after becoming a candidate

An individual who becomes a candidate after filing their taxes for the year must submit their return within 30 days of becoming a candidate.

Public posting of returns

Officials must post each submitted tax return to the public database within 5 business days of receiving it.