TAX RETURN
Tax law changes could mean higher refunds for many households this year. Photo Credit: Freepik

For many households, tax season isn't just about paperwork — it's an expectation. A tax refund can mean clearing a credit card, paying rent, or finally booking that long-planned holiday. So, when the IRS begins processing returns for the 2026 tax year, the question echoes across kitchen tables and office desks alike: Where is my refund?

The IRS officially opened the 2026 filing season and began processing federal individual income tax returns on 26 January 2026. This year, the agency anticipates around 164 million individual returns, most of which will be filed electronically. E-filing combined with direct deposit generally results in faster refunds, though exact timing can vary depending on several factors.

The Three-Week Rule Most People Rely On

The IRS states that most refunds for e-filed returns with direct deposit are issued in less than 21 days. However, some refunds may take longer if additional review or verification is necessary. To help speed up processing times, taxpayers are advised to:

  1. File electronically
  2. Choose direct deposit as the refund method
  3. Ensure their return is accurate and complete

Paper returns tend to take longer due to manual processing and mailing delays. Additionally, the IRS is gradually phasing out paper refund cheques, making direct deposit the standard method of receiving refunds. The IRS also cautions taxpayers not to rely on a specific refund date, as some returns require extra review or verification, which can cause delays.

How to Track Your Refund Properly

Refund status can be checked via the IRS's 'Where's My Refund?' tool, the IRS2Go app, or the IRS Individual Online Account. The tracking tool displays three main statuses:

  • Return Received: Your return has been received and is being processed.
  • Refund Approved: Your refund has been approved and payment is scheduled.
  • Refund Sent: Your refund has been sent to your bank or by mail.

Using direct deposit remains the quickest way to receive your refund. Paper cheques are being phased out and may take longer to arrive, often depending on postal services and processing times.

Why Some Refunds Stall Without Warning

Refund delays can occur for several reasons, including:

  • Errors or missing information on your return
  • Identity verification requirements
  • Corrections to child tax credits or recovery rebate credits
  • Claims for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)

By law, most EITC and ACTC refunds are held until mid-February. For 2026, these refunds are expected to be available by 2 March 2026, although the exact date may vary depending on your bank's processing times. Some returns require manual verification, which can extend processing beyond the usual three-week window. It's important to note that a delay doesn't necessarily indicate a problem; it may simply mean more time is needed to complete checks.

Bigger Refunds Expected in 2026

There is some positive news for taxpayers this year. Recent changes in tax law could lead to higher refunds for many households, providing a modest financial boost. For many families, this payment may feel less like a bonus and more like a breath of fresh air amidst ongoing financial pressures.

Key Dates to Remember

  • Federal filing deadline: 15 April 2026
  • Extension for Americans living or travelling outside the US and Puerto Rico: 15 June 2026
  • Electronic returns: Must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. local time on 15 April
  • Paper returns: Must be correctly addressed and postmarked by the deadline

Missing the deadline can result in longer delays, so timely filing is crucial. For more detailed information, taxpayers should consult the official IRS website to stay updated on any changes or announcements.

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