Tax season in the United States has officially begun, and millions of Americans are once again asking the same important question: when will the refund arrive? In February 2026, the Internal Revenue Service is handling a massive wave of tax returns, and understanding how the refund process works can ease a lot of stress. While most refunds still follow a familiar pattern, several factors can affect the exact timing of when money reaches a taxpayer’s bank account.

When the IRS Started Accepting Returns

For the 2026 tax season, the IRS began accepting federal income tax returns on February 26, 2026. An estimated 164 million individual returns are expected to be filed before the standard deadline of April 15. Taxpayers who file early usually have an advantage because their returns are processed before the system becomes crowded with last-minute submissions.

Why Filing Method Matters

Electronic filing continues to be the fastest and most reliable way to submit a tax return. It reduces mistakes, allows faster verification, and supports direct deposit refunds. The IRS strongly encourages direct deposit because it delivers money much faster than paper checks, which are slowly being phased out.

Typical Refund Processing Time

For most taxpayers, refunds are issued within about 21 days after the IRS accepts the return. Electronic filers often receive confirmation within one to three days, and the refund timeline begins from that point. If the return is accurate and does not require extra review, the refund may arrive even sooner.

Reasons Some Refunds Take Longer

Not all returns move through the system at the same speed. Returns that include certain credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit, are legally held until additional verification is completed. Even for early filers, these refunds usually arrive closer to early March if everything is correct. Paper-filed returns take much longer because they require manual processing and can take several weeks or more.

Changes That Can Affect Refund Amounts

Many taxpayers may notice differences in their refund amounts this year. Updates to the standard deduction, adjustments to child-related credits, and changes in employer withholding can all influence how much money is returned. Life events such as marriage, having a child, changing jobs, or buying a home can also significantly affect tax results.

How to Avoid Unnecessary Delays

Accuracy is key to faster refunds. Simple errors, missing information, or mismatched income details can push a return into manual review. Filing electronically, choosing direct deposit, and carefully reviewing all information before submission helps prevent delays and keeps the process smooth.

What to Expect This Tax Season

In February 2026, refund timing feels mostly predictable, but flexibility is important. Some taxpayers will see refunds within a couple of weeks, while others may wait longer due to verification rules or filing issues. Staying informed and patient makes tax season far less stressful.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Tax laws, processing timelines, and refund schedules may change based on official IRS policies and individual filing circumstances. Taxpayers should verify personal refund status through authorized government sources.