As the 2026 tax filing season approaches, the Internal Revenue Service is encouraging Americans to prepare early — especially with major changes coming into effect under the One, Big, Beautiful Act. Here’s a simple breakdown of what taxpayers need to know, from updated refund schedules to new deductions.
When will I receive my tax refund check?
The IRS is expected to open the 2026 tax season — for filing 2025 returns — in January 2026. Direct deposit remains the fastest way to get refunds, and paper checks are being phased out.
Estimated Repayment Schedule in 2026 (Direct Deposit)
| The IRS accepts the return | Estimated refund date |
| ———————– | ————————- |
| January 26, 2026 | February 6, 2026 |
| February 2, 2026 | February 13, 2026 |
| February 9, 2026 | February 20, 2026 |
| March 2, 2026 | March 13, 2026 |
| April 13, 2026 (Tax Day) | April 24, 2026 |
| April 20, 2026 | May 1, 2026 |
| May 18, 2026 | May 29, 2026 |
Most refunds arrive within 10-21 days for taxpayers who file by email and use direct deposit.
Refund tracking
Use the IRS Where’s My Refund? a tool that updates once a day as returns move:
Refunds may take longer if:
-You claim the EITC or CTC, which legally delays your refund until early March
-Your return contains errors, missing forms, or complicated income details
How much will I get?
Refunds in 2026 may be higher for many taxpayers due to:
-Higher standard deduction amounts
-New deductions and credits within OBBB
– Slightly increased federal withholding tax through 2025
-Inflation adjustments to tax bands
Standard Deduction (tax year 2025, filed in 2026 – valid this season)
-Married filing jointly: $31,500
– Single/married filing separately: $15,750
-Head of household: $23,625
Newly introduced deductions according to OBBB
Taxpayers may see larger refunds due to temporary and permanent benefits, including:
-No tax on car loan interest
-New temporary deductions for seniors and some workers
Your final amount will depend on your income, deductions, credits and deductions.
What’s new for the 2026 registration season
Several major changes will come into effect this year:
1. The One, Big, Beautiful Bill (OBBB) tax changes.
The IRS is introducing several new provisions:
-Removed taxation of tips, overtime and car loan interest
-Extended deductions for seniors and specific groups
-Adjusted standard deductions and bracket thresholds
2. Paper refund checks are gradually being phased out
Beginning September 30, 2025, most taxpayers must receive their refunds by direct deposit.
What to consider before submitting
The IRS encourages taxpayers to visit IRS.gov/GetReady and start preparing now. Key steps include:
1. Gather all tax records
– Records of digital asset transactions
– Bank information for direct deposit
Missing paperwork is one of the biggest causes of refund delays.
