economy
February 20, 2026
Average IRS Tax Refund is Up 14.2%, According to Early Filing Data
The average IRS tax refund is up 14.2%, according to early filing data. Here's what filers can expect this season.
TL;DR
- Average tax refund is 14.2% higher so far this season compared to the same period in 2025.
- The average refund amount has increased from $2,169 to $2,476 as of February 13.
- Total amount refunded is up 8.3% from 2025, but total filings received are down 2.6%.
- Donald Trump claimed tax refunds are 'substantially greater than ever before,' with some estimates suggesting over 20% returned to taxpayers.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated the average refund was 22% higher, though details on his comparison period were unclear.
- An expert from the Bipartisan Policy Center stated that refunds are up, consistent with expectations, but more data is needed to confirm trends.
- Larger refunds, often including earned income tax credit or additional child tax credit, typically increase starting mid-February.
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