The 2026 tax filing season has officially begun, and many Americans are closely watching their expected refund amounts. With household expenses still high, tax refunds continue to play a major role in helping families manage monthly bills. Interest is even stronger this year after statements from the White House suggested that average refunds for many taxpayers could rise by $1,000 or more.

Start of the 2026 Tax Filing Season

The Internal Revenue Service opened the 2026 tax filing season on February 26. Taxpayers who paid more tax during the year than they were required to pay may qualify for a refund. In addition, individuals and families with low to moderate income levels may still receive refunds through refundable tax credits, even if they owe little or no federal income tax. This makes filing a return important for many households, even when income is limited.

How Fast Refunds Are Being Issued

The IRS has confirmed that taxpayers who file electronically and select direct deposit usually receive their refunds within 21 days or less. This remains the quickest and most reliable option. Returns filed by mail often take longer because they require manual handling and review. In cases where corrections are needed or a paper check is issued, refunds may take four weeks or more to arrive.

Special Review for Certain Tax Credits

Although the IRS is moving toward fewer paper refunds, mailed checks are still issued when electronic payment information is unavailable. Taxpayers claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit should expect additional review time. The IRS has indicated that most refunds tied to these credits should be deposited into bank accounts or prepaid cards by February 2, assuming there are no issues with the return.

Reasons Refunds May Be Delayed

Most refunds are expected to be processed smoothly, but some taxpayers may experience delays. Ongoing staffing challenges at the IRS can slow processing in certain situations. Errors such as missing income documents, incorrect personal details, or calculation mistakes can also cause delays. Even with these challenges, official updates suggest that the majority of returns will be handled on schedule.

Tax Law Changes That May Increase Refunds

Refund amounts may be higher this year due to changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which extended earlier tax reductions. The standard deduction has increased, allowing single filers to claim $15,750 and married couples filing jointly to claim $31,500. Taxpayers aged 65 and older also qualify for an additional $6,000 deduction, reducing taxable income further.

Tracking Your Refund Status

Taxpayers can monitor their refund status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” online tool. This system updates as returns move through each stage of processing, helping filers stay informed.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide tax, legal, or financial advice. Refund amounts, eligibility, and timelines depend on individual circumstances and IRS rules, which may change. Readers should consult official IRS resources or a qualified tax professional for personalized guidance.