The 2026 tax filing season has officially begun, and millions of Americans are preparing to submit their returns with a common question in mind: how much refund can they expect, and when will it arrive? With ongoing pressure from everyday expenses such as rent, groceries, utilities, and healthcare, tax refunds remain an important part of household financial planning.
Interest is particularly high this year following public statements indicating that average refund amounts could increase for many taxpayers. These expectations are largely tied to tax policy changes and adjustments to deductions and credits that may benefit eligible filers.
When the IRS Started Accepting Returns
The Internal Revenue Service began accepting 2025 income tax returns on January 26, 2026. From this date onward, taxpayers were able to file either electronically or by submitting paper returns through the mail.
Individuals who paid more federal income tax during the year than they ultimately owed may qualify for a refund. In addition, taxpayers with low to moderate incomes may still receive refunds through refundable tax credits, even if they have little or no federal income tax liability. These credits play a key role in supporting eligible households during tax season.
How Long Refunds Usually Take
According to IRS guidance, most taxpayers who file electronically and select direct deposit can expect to receive their refunds within 21 days or less after their return is accepted. Electronic filing combined with direct deposit continues to be the fastest and most secure way to receive a refund.
Paper returns generally take longer to process because they require manual handling. In these cases, refunds may take four weeks or more, especially when the payment is issued as a mailed check. Although the IRS continues to reduce reliance on paper processing, checks are still sent when banking information is not available. Additional time may also be required for bank processing after a refund is approved.
Why Some Refunds May Be Delayed
Not all refunds follow the same timeline. Returns that include the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) are subject to extra review requirements under federal law. Because of this, the IRS expects most refunds associated with these credits to be issued by early March, rather than in February.
Refunds may also be delayed due to common filing errors, such as missing income forms, incorrect personal details, or calculation mistakes. Returns that require manual review typically take longer to process.
While staffing challenges at the IRS may affect a limited number of cases, official updates suggest that the majority of returns should be processed without significant delays during the 2026 tax season.
Tax Changes That May Increase Refunds
Refund expectations are higher this year in part due to tax changes carried forward under recent legislation that extended earlier tax relief measures. The standard deduction has increased, allowing taxpayers to shield more income from federal taxation.
For the 2025 tax year, single filers can claim a standard deduction of $15,750, while married couples filing jointly can claim $31,500. Taxpayers aged 65 and older are eligible for an additional $6,000 deduction, further reducing taxable income for seniors.
The Child Tax Credit has been permanently increased to $2,200 per qualifying child, and the Earned Income Tax Credit remains available, with maximum amounts depending on income level and family size. For eligible households, these credits can significantly increase refund amounts.
Tracking Your Refund Status
Taxpayers can track the progress of their refunds using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool. This secure online service provides updates as a return moves through the stages of receipt, approval, and payment.
Status information typically becomes available within 24 hours of electronic filing. Direct deposit refunds often arrive shortly after the status changes to “sent,” while mailed checks may take additional time to reach recipients.
Planning for the 2026 Tax Season
Understanding how the refund process works helps taxpayers set realistic expectations and avoid unnecessary stress. Filing early, double-checking return details, and choosing direct deposit can help reduce delays. Staying informed through official IRS resources remains the most reliable way to monitor updates throughout the tax season.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide tax, legal, or financial advice. Refund amounts, eligibility requirements, and processing timelines depend on individual circumstances and IRS regulations, which may change. Readers should consult official IRS resources or a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to their situation.
