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IRS Sees 12.3% Drop in Returns, Refunds Rise 10.9%

2/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reports a 12.3% drop in processed returns for 2026, totaling 20.6 million by February 6.
The IRS notes that the average refund rose to $2,290, a 10.9% increase from 2025.
As of February 13, the total refunded amount reached about $32 billion, up 8.3%.
Electronic filers with direct deposit typically receive refunds within 21 days, while paper returns take six to eight weeks.

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Story summary

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reports a 12.3% drop in processed returns for 2026, totaling 20.6 million by February 6.
The IRS notes that the average refund rose to $2,290, a 10.9% increase from 2025.
As of February 13, the total refunded amount reached about $32 billion, up 8.3%.
Electronic filers with direct deposit typically receive refunds within 21 days, while paper returns take six to eight weeks.