As the 2026 tax season gets into full swing, millions of American taxpayers are faced with potential delays in receiving their refund checks. Many are expected to wait until at least March for their funds due to strict IRS security measures aimed at combating fraud.
For the majority of filers submitting their returns electronically with direct deposit, the IRS typically processes refunds within a window of about 21 days. However, those claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) will encounter mandatory holds on their refunds. According to the IRS, the earliest these individuals can expect to see funds deposited into their bank accounts is March 2, provided there are no other complications with their tax returns.
This delay is implemented as part of the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015, which mandates that the IRS cannot release certain refunds until mid-February, even if a tax return is processed promptly after the season commenced on January 26. TurboTax highlights that this approach ensures ample time for the IRS to verify the accuracy of income reported and the identities of taxpayers, significantly minimizing the risk of erroneous payments. It’s worth noting that approximately one-third of EITC claims are currently processed incorrectly, contributing to the careful scrutiny of such claims.
Taxpayers are encouraged to begin tracking their refund status starting February 21 through the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund?” tool or via the IRS2Go mobile app.
The financial implications of these tax credits are substantial for many families. The EITC provides essential income, offering between $649 for filers without children and an impressive $8,046 for those who are caring for three or more children, as reported by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. In addition, the Child Tax Credit can amount to as much as $2,200 for each qualifying child under the age of 17, with a portion of that, specifically up to $1,700, being refundable through the ACTC, detailed by Bankrate.
Filers should also take note of a significant change in how they will receive their tax refunds. As of October 1, 2025, the federal government has ceased the distribution of paper checks in a bid to save costs and enhance security measures surrounding financial transactions. This transition to electronic payments signifies a broader effort to streamline the tax refund process while safeguarding taxpayer information.
