Washington DC, January 26, 2026 — The Internal Revenue Service began accepting 2025 tax returns on January 26, marking the official start of the 2026 filing season. With approximately 164 million individual returns expected by the April 15 deadline, taxpayers should be aware of important changes this year.
Major Change: Paper Checks Being Phased Out
In a significant shift, the IRS has largely discontinued paper refund checks as of September 30, 2025. Most taxpayers must now provide their bank routing and account numbers to receive refunds through direct deposit. This change aims to expedite refund processing and reduce costs.
Filing Deadline and Refund Timeline
Tax returns for the 2025 tax year are due Wednesday, April 15, 2026. The IRS reports that most refunds are issued within 21 days when taxpayers file electronically and select direct deposit.
For families claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC), refunds should be available in bank accounts by March 2, 2026, provided returns are filed early and without errors.
Free Filing Options Available
The IRS offers several no-cost filing solutions:
IRS Free File: Brand-name tax software at no charge for eligible taxpayers
Free File Fillable Forms: Self-service option for those comfortable preparing their own returns
VITA and TCE Programs: Free in-person tax preparation assistance for qualified individuals
While more than half of taxpayers use professional tax preparers, the IRS cautions filers to research preparers carefully and avoid unlicensed “ghost” preparers who don’t sign returns.
Tracking Your Refund
Taxpayers can monitor refund status using the “Where’s My Refund?” tool on IRS.gov, the IRS2Go mobile app, or through their IRS Individual Online Account. The tool will provide projected deposit dates for early EITC/ACTC filers by February 21, 2026.
“E-filing with direct deposit remains the fastest, most secure way to file and receive your refund,” said IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano, noting that 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of electronic filing.
For more information and filing resources, visit IRS.gov.
