Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Washington Taxpayers Face Refund Delays Due to Errors

4/6/2026

30 3 Full Breakdown

Center

Taxpayers Face Delays

In 2026, taxpayers in Washington state may experience delays in receiving federal tax refunds.
The Internal Revenue Service says errors on returns and identity theft are key delay causes.
The deadline to file federal 2025 returns is April 15, with electronic filing and direct deposit being the fastest refund methods.
Federal and state refunds are issued separately, and those claiming the Working Families Tax Credit may see longer processing times.

Right

IRS Reports Refund Increase

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reported that the average tax refund for the 2026 filing season rose to $3,571, a 10.9% increase from 2025.
The IRS reported that total refunds issued exceeded $202 billion, up 12.9%.
The filing pace slowed, with returns received down 0.9%.
The IRS saw a 55.6% rise in website visits, likely due to changes in tax law under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

1 of 2

Taxpayers Face Delays

In 2026, taxpayers in Washington state may experience delays in receiving federal tax refunds.
The Internal Revenue Service says errors on returns and identity theft are key delay causes.
The deadline to file federal 2025 returns is April 15, with electronic filing and direct deposit being the fastest refund methods.
Federal and state refunds are issued separately, and those claiming the Working Families Tax Credit may see longer processing times.

1 / 2