It's almost tax season! And the number one question we see every year is: when can I expect my tax refund? Most taxpayers receive their IRS tax refund within 21 days of filing, but actual dates vary depending on when your return is accepted,

The era of paper tax refund checks is ending. The IRS is moving to an all-electronic system. Learn why direct deposit is now essential and how to set it up.

According to the order, it is “16 times more likely” for paper checks and money orders to be lost, stolen, returned undeliverable, or altered than electronically-disbursed funds. The IRS notes that every refund check it issues “costs the nation’s taxpayers more than $1,” while direct deposit refunds cost about a dime.

Standard deduction: This is the set amount that taxpayers can deduct from their taxable income. The standard deduction for the 2025 tax year will rise by $750 — to $15,750 — for single filers or married people filing separately. It’ll increase by $1,500 for married couples filing jointly, to $31,500.

Prepare for the 2026 tax season. Find key deadlines, including the expected April 15 filing date, and learn why the IRS is phasing out paper refund checks.

New IRS rules may lead to higher tax refunds for some people, but they may also cause confusion as taxpayers adjust to the changes.

The average taxpayer may receive a refund this year that’s between $300 to $1,000 more than the previous year, but there are certain things to keep in mind when you decide how to file your tax return