Tax season is here, and many people are eagerly anticipating their refunds.
However, delays may affect millions of Americans, as suggested by a recent statement from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), indicating that certain regulations could slow down processing times for those utilizing two widely used programs.
The IRS mentions on its website that, “We may require further information regarding your return.” If you’re concerned about potential delays with your refund, here’s what to keep in mind.
Typically, the IRS states that tax refunds are processed within 21 days. But, there are instances where additional information could cause delays for some individuals.
In 2026, those eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) might experience longer wait times.
The agency has specified that individuals filing online and opting for direct deposit may receive their refunds by March 2, provided there are no issues with their returns.
If the IRS identifies a discrepancy, they’ll send a letter requesting clarification, which could extend the delay further.
You might be curious why a partial refund isn’t available during the processing of these credits. The IRS cites federal regulations as the reason.
Under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, as noted by the Taxpayer Advocate’s Office, refunds for those claiming these credits won’t be issued until late February, leading agencies to withhold the entire refund rather than just the portions linked to these programs.
This means that, unfortunately, many families might experience delays in receiving essential funds.
These delays could significantly impact those who rely on the EITC and ACTC as crucial financial support.
