With new tax provisions introduced under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the sweeping legislation passed in summer 2025 under Donald Trump, along with a government shutdown and staffing cuts at the Internal Revenue Service, taxpayers may encounter several changes this filing season. Updates may affect how certain tip income is taxed, the impact of tariff-related issues, and the potential rollout of additional tax forms for the new year.   

For the 2026 tax filing season, no major calendar changes are expected; however, several important updates could affect certain taxpayers. These may include new considerations for auto loan borrowers, retirees, workers eligible for tax relief on some overtime pay or tips, and families benefiting from an increased Child Tax Credit, as well as other revised deductions and credits. The Internal Revenue Service has also announced it will no longer issue paper refund checks, making direct deposit essential. Taxpayers without traditional bank accounts can use prepaid debit cards, though it’s important to watch for potential fees.

The Internal Revenue Service has officially opened the 2026 tax filing season and is now accepting and processing federal individual income tax returns for the 2025 tax year.

The agency anticipates receiving approximately 164 million individual returns by Wednesday, April 15. Taxpayers can access a variety of tools and filing resources on IRS.gov to help them prepare and submit their returns efficiently.

The IRS has confirmed that 2026 tax refunds will begin arriving in February. For millions of Americans relying on these refunds to cover bills, pay down debt, or rebuild savings, the news brings much-needed clarity as tax season gets underway.

When to Expect Your Refund

The IRS is already processing returns. Early filers who choose direct deposit will receive their refunds first—typically within 10 to 21 days after the IRS accepts their return. Paper filers should expect longer delays, as returns must be manually reviewed and processed before checks are mailed.     

Will 2026 Income Tax Refunds Be Higher?

While many Americans may grumble about taxes and the Internal Revenue Service, millions still look forward to receiving a refund and planning how they’ll use it—whether for a long-awaited vacation or to pay down bills. The encouraging news is that in 2026, some taxpayers could see larger refunds thanks to new deductions and credits, as well as late-year withholding adjustments that may have resulted in slightly higher amounts withheld from paychecks.

Generally, the IRS begins accepting e-filed returns in the last week of January, with the filing deadline set for April 15, though that date can occasionally shift due to weekends or holidays.

Why Filing Method Matters

How you file directly affects how quickly you get your refund. Electronic filing uses automated systems that process returns faster than manual paper review. Direct deposit eliminates mailing time by transferring funds straight to your bank account. Filing early with accurate, complete information moves you to the front of the line — meaning you’re more likely to see your refund in early February.   

Important Notes

• Early Filing: January 26 is the date the IRS will begin accepting e-filed returns for the 2025 tax year.
  
• EITC & CTC Processing: Returns claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit may have refunds issued in March due to additional verification.
  
• Later Filings: Returns submitted closer to the tax deadline may have acceptance and processing dates that extend into April.

What Can Delay Your Refund

Even with electronic filing, some returns require extra review. Common issues include errors in personal information, incorrect Social Security numbers, missing income documents, or math mistakes. The IRS also runs identity verification checks to prevent fraud. Returns claiming certain refundable credits may require additional verification, which can delay processing.

How to Track Your Refund

You can check your refund status online using the IRS tracking tool. Updates usually appear within 24 hours of your return being accepted. You’ll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount from your return. Tracking provides real-time visibility and eliminates the guesswork of waiting.

Why Refund Timing Matters

For many families, that February refund isn’t a bonus — it’s budgeted. Rent, mortgage payments, utilities, medical bills, credit card debt, and emergency savings — refunds often fill critical gaps. Knowing when to expect that money helps people plan with confidence instead of scrambling to cover expenses.

Bottom Line

Refunds start in February 2026. File electronically, choose direct deposit, double-check your information, and you’ll likely see your money within a few weeks. The earlier and more accurate your return, the faster your refund arrives. Taxpayers who work with a qualified professional, such as a CPA firm, can request an estimated refund timeline and gain added confidence that their returns have been prepared accurately and in full compliance with tax laws. If you experienced major financial or life changes this year—such as a shift in income, the birth of a child, marriage or divorce, retirement, a home purchase, investment changes, or other significant events—it’s wise to consult a tax professional to ensure you’re taking full advantage of available deductions and credits that could work in your favor.