The 2026 tax season is officially underway, and if you already filed your 2025 return, you are probably checking your account and asking the same question everyone else is: Where’s my refund?
Here is what we know right now about refund timelines, possible delays, and the latest on a potential stimulus check.
Tax Season Is Open, And Returns Are Moving
The IRS began accepting and processing 2025 tax returns on Jan. 26. According to the Austin American-Statesman, the agency processes more than 150 million individual returns each year, and more than 90% of taxpayers are expected to file electronically.
That volume alone explains why timing varies, adding in nuances of staffing shifts and broader government funding concerns, and patience becomes part of the process. A previous AFROTECH™ report also noted that the recent partial government shutdown raised questions about processing timelines, especially for returns requiring manual review.
Where’s My Refund? How To Check Your Status
If you are actively wondering where your refund is, the IRS directs taxpayers to its online tracking system, the Austin American-Statesman noted.
The IRS Where’s My Refund tool at IRS.gov allows you to check your status by entering your Social Security Number or individual taxpayer ID number, your filing status, and the exact refund amount listed on your return, according to the outlet.
The tool will show one of three updates:
- Return Received – Your return is being processed.
- Refund Approved – Your payment is scheduled.
- Refund Sent – The IRS has issued your refund.
Direct deposits can take up to five days to show up, and mailed checks can take several weeks to arrive.
How Long Will It Take To Receive My Refund?
Most refunds are issued within three weeks.
According to the Austin American-Statesman, filing electronically and selecting direct deposit remains the fastest way to get paid. Paper returns and mailed checks take notably longer. The IRS also recommends that taxpayers not assume they will receive their refund by a specific date, especially when planning for large purchases or major bills.
Electronically filed returns that pass automated checks are generally less likely to face delays compared to returns requiring manual review, AFROTECH™ added.
Why Your Refund Could Be Delayed
Delays can happen if a return has errors, is incomplete, or is flagged for identity theft or fraud, the Austin American-Statesman noted.
Refunds may also take longer if corrections are needed for the child tax credit or recovery rebate credit. Returns involving the earned income tax credit, additional child tax credit, or Form 8379 (Injured Spouse Allocation) can also extend processing time. In some cases, banks may take additional time to post deposits, according to the outlet.
Bigger Refunds And Possible Stimulus Checks
There is speculation that refunds could increase.
According to the Austin American-Statesman, President Donald Trump has said refunds may be larger due to his “One Big Beautiful Bill” tax cuts enacted last year. The Bipartisan Policy Center projected that the legislation could generate billions in retroactive tax relief, per the outlet.
The Trump Administration has also alleged that a $2,000 rebate-style payment, funded in part by tariff revenue, could be sent to taxpayers, but no formal commitment has been made, the outlet noted.
As of now, no stimulus checks are scheduled for 2026.
If you are still asking, “Where’s my refund?” your best move is simple: File electronically, double-check for errors, choose direct deposit, and track your status online. Most refunds are processed within weeks, but accuracy and timing matter more than ever this season.
