Tax refunds are bigger but some early filers must wait to get them

Early tax filers are seeing larger refunds this year, but some may face delays. Find out what to expect from the IRS.

IRS tax season starts off sluggish but tax refunds bigger

Early IRS data shows fewer tax returns processed and few refunds issued through Feb. 6, but the average refund amount is up. Here's what to know.

Average Tax Refund Climbs To $2,476 Despite Slower Filing Pace

IRS statistics through February 13, 2026, reveal fewer returns have been filed and processed compared to 2025. Still, the average tax refund checks are higher.

IRS tax data: Average refunds are bigger in 2026, even as fewer people file early

As of the week ending Feb. 13, 2026, the IRS reports the average tax refund stands at $2,476 — an increase of 14.2% from ...

Tax refunds are big but not as big as expected. How to use the cash

Early 2026 tax refunds are up by $307 on average, not close to the extra $1,000 the White House says is likely. Averages will ...

Tax Refunds Are Up, Filings Are Down As Tax Season Gets Started

The first week of the 2026 tax filing season shows a slower start for tax returns and IRS processing, but early filers are receiving larger refunds than a year ago.

IRS tax refund 2026 update: returns down 12.3% — is your direct deposit delayed and what does “Where’s My Refund?” reveal?

IRS tax refund 2026 update: IRS processed 20.6 million tax returns through February 6, down 12.3% year over year, while the average tax refund rose to $2,290, up 10.9%. The 2026 tax season started ...
Opinion
The Lowell SunOpinion

Editorial: Postmark notice another reason to efile tax returns

The Massachusetts Department of Revenue has issued a warning about changes to U.S. Postal Service procedures that could delay postmark dates and cause missed deadlines. This has significant ...