It's almost tax season! And the number one question we see every year is: when can I expect my tax refund? Most taxpayers receive their IRS tax refund within 21 days of filing, but actual dates vary depending on when your return is accepted,

The 2026 tax season will soon be underway and some Americans could be receiving heftier tax returns this year.

The IRS will begin accepting 2025 federal tax returns on January 26, with April 15 as the filing deadline. Several new tax changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act may affect refunds and deductions.

Key Points ・If you claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), your refund will be held until at least February 15, 2026 due to the PATH Act. ・Tax season is set to open on January 26,

Standard deduction: This is the set amount that taxpayers can deduct from their taxable income. The standard deduction for the 2025 tax year will rise by $750 — to $15,750 — for single filers or married people filing separately. It’ll increase by $1,500 for married couples filing jointly, to $31,500.

Major tax rule changes could boost 2026 refunds, but new forms, limits and direct deposit rules may delay filing and payouts.