Fri Feb 06 07:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Tax Season Opens, IRS Faces Potential Delays Amidst Personnel Exodus

The Story:
The 2025 tax season officially commenced on January 26, offering Americans the opportunity to file their returns and potentially receive refunds within a few weeks, particularly for those filing electronically. Taxpayers who overpaid during the 2025 tax year, or those eligible for refundable credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, are expected to receive refunds. However, potential delays are anticipated due to staffing challenges within the IRS stemming from personnel departures during the Trump presidency.

Despite the IRS efforts to expedite the process with electronic filing and direct deposit, some taxpayers might experience longer wait times, especially those submitting paper returns or those requiring amendments or corrections. While the IRS is phasing out paper refunds, they will still be issued if no alternative payment methods are available. The agency encourages taxpayers to utilize the “Where’s My Refund?” online tool to track their refund status.

Key Points:

  • The 2025 tax filing season began on January 26.
  • Refunds for electronically filed returns are expected within 21 days, less if direct deposit is used.
  • Paper returns and those needing corrections could take four weeks or longer.
  • Refunds for the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and Additional Child Tax Credit should be available by March 2 for those using direct deposit.
  • The average refund last year was $3,167.
  • Analysts project the average refund could be $1,000 higher this year due to changes in tax law.
  • The IRS faces potential delays due to an exodus of workers during the Trump presidency.

Key Takeaways:

  • Electronic filing and direct deposit are the most efficient methods for receiving tax refunds.
  • Staffing issues within the IRS may lead to delays for some taxpayers, particularly those filing paper returns.
  • Taxpayers can monitor the status of their refunds using the IRS’s online tool.
  • Changes in tax law are expected to increase the average refund amount this year.
  • The IRS is actively phasing out paper tax refunds, encouraging taxpayers to utilize alternative payment methods.

    Read More

Related News: