IRS Announces Tax Season Start Date: Expect Bigger Refunds in 2026! (2026)

Get ready, because tax season is just around the corner, and there's a good chance you could be getting a significantly larger refund this year!

This year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is set to begin processing tax returns on Monday, January 26th. While you can submit your return before this date, the IRS won't officially start working on it until then.

If you're filing electronically and opting for direct deposit (which is essentially the standard now, as paper checks are being phased out), you can anticipate receiving your refund within approximately 21 days, assuming there are no complications with your return.

But here's where it gets exciting: many taxpayers could see a boost in their refunds this year. Thanks to provisions within President Donald Trump's "One, Big, Beautiful Bill," tax experts predict an additional $1,000 per return.

And this is the part most people miss... This increase is largely due to several key changes:

  • Higher Standard Deductions: This includes $15,750 for single filers and $31,500 for those filing jointly.
  • Increased Child Tax Credits: Rising from $2,000 to $2,200.
  • A New Deduction for Seniors: A new $6,000 deduction is available for certain senior citizens, dependent on their income levels.

Furthermore, Trump's bill also eliminated taxes on tips and overtime earnings, introduced a tax break on auto loan interest, and raised the limit for deducting state and local taxes.

Last year's average refund was $3,167, which was about $30 more than the previous year.

Important Dates:

  • Filing Deadline: Taxpayers have until Wednesday, April 15th to file their 2025 tax returns and pay any owed taxes. You can also request an extension if needed.
  • Expected Returns: The IRS anticipates receiving around 164 million individual income tax returns this year, with the majority being filed electronically.

Controversy & Comment Hooks: What do you think about these tax changes? Do you believe they will benefit the majority of taxpayers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

IRS Announces Tax Season Start Date: Expect Bigger Refunds in 2026! (2026)
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