When to expect your refund, how to track it, and what to do with it once it arrives — everything about the 2026 tax refund season.
See Refund Schedule →The IRS opened the 2026 filing season on January 26, 2026, with returns due April 15, 2026 (extensions due October 15, 2026). Electronic filers with direct deposit can generally expect a refund in less than 21 days.
| Milestone | 2026 Date |
|---|---|
| Filing season opens | January 26, 2026 |
| Filing deadline | April 15, 2026 |
| Extension deadline | October 15, 2026 |
| Typical e-file refund time | Under 21 days |
The average refund last year was almost $3,200, and this year's refunds are projected to run roughly $1,000 higher — potentially averaging around $4,200 — according to IRS data cited in recent reporting.
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