The average IRS tax refund has increased by 10.9% compared with the same point last year, according to early filing data released during the 2026 tax season. The latest figures suggest that many taxpayers are receiving larger refunds so far, particularly those who filed electronically and opted for direct deposit.
Here’s what the numbers show and what it could mean for taxpayers.
What the Early IRS Data Reveals
Preliminary statistics from the Internal Revenue Service indicate that the average refund amount has risen notably in the early weeks of the filing season. While exact totals may shift as more returns are processed, the 10.9% increase reflects a strong start.
Refund totals can fluctuate throughout the season depending on:
- The mix of early filers
- Tax credit claims
- Withholding patterns
- Income changes year over year
Early filers often include taxpayers expecting refunds, which can temporarily raise the average.
Why Refunds May Be Higher This Year
Several factors may be contributing to the increase:
1. Adjusted Withholding
Some workers may have had more taxes withheld from paychecks during 2025, resulting in larger refunds when they filed returns.
2. Refundable Tax Credits
Credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit can significantly increase refund amounts for eligible households.
3. Income Changes
Changes in income levels, bonus payments, or employment shifts may impact final refund calculations.
4. Filing Behavior
Taxpayers expecting larger refunds often file earlier, which can influence early season averages.
Direct Deposit Remains the Fastest Option
The IRS continues to encourage electronic filing combined with direct deposit. Most e-filed returns with direct deposit are processed within 21 days, although many are issued sooner if no errors are detected.
Taxpayers who file paper returns may experience longer processing times.
What This Means for Taxpayers
While the average refund is up 10.9% so far, individual refund amounts vary widely based on:
- Filing status
- Income level
- Deductions claimed
- Tax credits
- Withholding amounts
A higher average does not guarantee that every taxpayer will see an increase.
Important Reminder About Refund Timing
Even with larger refund averages, processing delays can occur due to:
- Errors or incomplete information
- Identity verification checks
- Fraud prevention reviews
- Claims involving refundable credits
Taxpayers can check their refund status using the IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the agency’s official website.
Early Data Can Change
It’s important to note that early filing data represents only a portion of total returns expected this season. As more taxpayers submit returns in March and April, the average refund amount may adjust.
Historically, averages tend to stabilize as filing volumes increase closer to the deadline.
Final Thoughts
The early 2026 tax season data shows encouraging news for many taxpayers, with the average IRS refund up 10.9% compared to the same time last year. While the increase reflects positive trends in early filings, individual refund outcomes will depend on each taxpayer’s financial situation.
For the most accurate information, taxpayers should rely on official IRS updates and track their refund status through authorized government tools.