đź“Š IRS 2026 Standard Mileage Rate Increase
What happened: The IRS finalized the 2026 optional standard mileage rates, increasing the business mileage rate to 72.5¢/mile (up 2.5¢ from 2025), with updated medical and charitable use rates, effective Jan 1, 2026.
Why it matters: Employers, contractors, and field‑based workers should update reimbursement tables and payroll systems to reflect the new rate for business travel deductions and reimbursements.
Who is affected: Employers, gig and contract workers, sales/field staff, delivery services, nonprofits.
Dates/Deadlines: Effective Jan 1, 2026 for mileage incurred.
Source: IRS press release — “IRS sets 2026 business standard mileage rate at 72.5 cents per mile.”
🔍 FTC Updates Hart‑Scott‑Rodino (HSR) Pre‑Merger Thresholds & Fees for 2026
What happened: The Federal Trade Commission announced the 2026 adjustments to merger notification thresholds and filing fee schedule under the Hart‑Scott‑Rodino Act, increasing the size‑of‑transaction threshold to $133.9 M from $126.4 M and raising filing fees. These take effect 30 days after Federal Register publication (expected mid‑Feb 2026).
Why it matters: Companies planning mergers or acquisitions must reassess whether deals trigger pre‑merger filings and adjust compliance and deal timelines accordingly. Penalties may apply for late or missing filings.
Who is affected: Corporations, private equity, strategic buyers, legal/finance advisors.
Dates/Deadlines: Effective ~Feb 13–16, 2026 (30 days after publication).
Source: FTC threshold announcement — “U.S. FTC Releases 2026 Thresholds for HSR Act Filings.”