economy
It's Tax Day. Here's how big the average tax refund is in 2026.
Updated on: April 15, 2026 / 9:43 AM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Average tax refunds in 2026 have increased by 11% to $3,462.
- The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" introduced new deductions, with over 53 million filers claiming them.
- Key deductions include "no tax on tips," overtime pay, and an enhanced senior deduction.
- About a third of taxpayers surveyed received tipped income, overtime pay, or both.
- Total tax relief projected from the bill is $106 billion, impacting both refunds and tax liabilities.
- 14% of U.S. taxpayers reported a "significantly" larger refund this year.
- Plans for refunds include debt reduction (over one-third) and savings (13%).
- Rising gas prices ($4.12/gallon) due to global oil prices may offset some of the refund gains for households.