When Does the IRS Start Approving Refunds in 2026?
Refunds start getting approved right after the IRS begins processing returns on January 26, 2026. There isn't one single day when approvals suddenly begin for everyone instead, processing happens as returns come in.
The IRS typically issues most refunds in fewer than 21 days for e-filed returns with direct deposit and no issues. Some cases take longer due to required reviews, errors, or specific credits claimed.
IRS Tax Season 2026 Start Date
The 2026 filing season kicked off on Monday, January 26, 2026. That's when the IRS started accepting e-filed and paper returns for 2025 taxes.
Taxpayers have until Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to file and pay any taxes owed (or request an extension). The IRS anticipates around 164 million individual returns this year, with the majority filed electronically.
2026 IRS Refund Timeline Overview
The timeline varies based on how and when a return gets filed. Here's a clear breakdown:
| Filing Method & Timing | When IRS Accepts | Typical Refund Approval / Deposit Window |
|---|---|---|
| E-file on/after Jan 26 with direct deposit | Within 24–72 hours of submission | Usually within 21 days if no issues |
| E-file with EITC/ACTC credits | Accepted after Jan 26 | Most refunds available by early March 2026 (around March 2 for many filers) |
| Paper return, direct deposit | When paper is logged by IRS | Often 4–6 weeks or longer |
| Paper return, paper check | When paper is logged by IRS | 6–8 weeks or more, depending on mail |
Direct deposit remains the fastest option, and the IRS continues phasing out paper refund checks.
Key Factors That Affect 2026 IRS Refund Approval
Several elements influence how quickly a refund arrives:
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Filing method: E-filing with direct deposit processes fastest; paper filings slow things down significantly.
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Credits claimed: Returns involving the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) face a mandatory hold until mid-February due to law requirements, with most funds reaching accounts or debit cards by March 2, 2026, for eligible direct-deposit filers.
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Errors and verification: Mistakes, mismatched information, identity checks, or additional reviews can extend processing beyond the standard 21 days.
2026 IRS Refund Schedule Examples
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Someone e-files a simple return on January 26, 2026, with direct deposit and no special credits: The refund often appears in the bank account by mid-February (around three weeks later).
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An early filer claims EITC/ACTC: The return gets accepted after January 26, but the full refund typically becomes available by early March 2026, with projected dates showing up in Where's My Refund? by February 21 for many.
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A paper filer submits mid-February: Expect 4–8 weeks or more, depending on mail processing and method of refund delivery.
How to Check If Your 2026 Refund Is Approved
Use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool on IRS.gov or the IRS2Go app for the most accurate updates. Statuses include:
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Return Received (processing started)
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Refund Approved (approved and scheduled for issuance)
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Refund Sent (issued via direct deposit or check)
These updates usually refresh once per day. After "Refund Sent," direct deposits may take a couple extra days to post in the bank account.
Disclaimer: This information is based on official IRS announcements and guidelines as of February 2026. Always check the latest details directly on IRS.gov, as dates, rules, and processing times may change.
