economy
Average tax refund is 11% higher, latest IRS filing data shows
The average tax refund is about 11% higher so far this season, compared with about the same period in 2025, according to IRS filing data.
TL;DR
- The average tax refund is 11.1% higher so far this season.
- As of April 3, the average refund was $3,462, up from $3,116 last year.
- Republicans attribute the increase to President Trump's tax policies, including new deductions.
- Rising gasoline prices and living expenses may offset the higher refunds for some.
- 23% of filers plan to use refunds to pay down credit card debt, and another 23% will save the money.
- Trump's legislation raised the SALT limit to $40,000, potentially offering larger payments for eligible filers.