The 2026 tax filing season has officially started, and millions of Americans are now preparing their returns with one big question in mind: how much refund will I receive, and when will it arrive? With everyday costs such as rent, food, utilities, and healthcare still stretching household budgets, tax refunds continue to play an important role in financial planning. This year, interest is even stronger after statements from the White House suggested that average refunds could rise by $1,000 or more for many taxpayers.
When the IRS Started Accepting Returns
The Internal Revenue Service began accepting 2025 income tax returns on January 26, 2026. From this date, taxpayers were able to submit their returns either electronically or by mail. Anyone who paid more taxes during the year than they owed may qualify for a refund. In addition, people with low or moderate incomes may still receive refunds through refundable tax credits, even if they do not owe federal income tax.
How Long Refunds Usually Take
According to the IRS, most taxpayers who file electronically and choose direct deposit can expect their refunds within 21 days or less. This method remains the fastest and safest way to receive money. Returns filed on paper usually take longer to process because they require manual handling. In these cases, refunds can take four weeks or more, especially if the payment is issued as a mailed check.
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Although the IRS is slowly moving away from paper refunds, checks are still sent when electronic payment details are not available. Bank processing time can also affect when funds appear in an account after the refund is approved.
Why Some Refunds May Be Delayed
Not every refund follows the same timeline. Returns that include the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit go through extra review steps required by law. Because of this, the IRS expects most refunds linked to these credits to arrive by March 2 rather than in February. In some cases, errors such as missing income forms, incorrect personal details, or calculation mistakes can also slow down processing.
Staffing challenges at the IRS may contribute to delays for a small number of returns, but official reports suggest that most filers should move through the system without major issues this year.
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Tax Changes That May Increase Refunds
Refunds may be higher in 2026 due to changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which extended earlier tax cuts. The standard deduction has increased, allowing more income to be shielded from taxes. Single filers can now claim $15,750, while married couples filing jointly can claim $31,500. Taxpayers aged 65 and older also receive an additional $6,000 deduction.
The Child Tax Credit has been permanently raised to $2,200 per child, and the Earned Income Tax Credit remains available, with maximum amounts depending on income and family size. These changes can significantly increase refunds for eligible households.
Tracking Your Refund Status
Taxpayers can monitor their refund progress using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool. This online service provides updates as returns move from acceptance to approval and finally to payment.
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide tax, legal, or financial advice. Refund amounts, eligibility rules, and timelines depend on individual circumstances and IRS regulations, which may change. Readers should rely on official IRS resources or consult a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to their situation.
