(WDNews) – Some taxpayers will have to wait longer than usual to receive their federal tax refunds this year, according to the Internal Revenue Service.
For most filers who submit their returns electronically and choose direct deposit, refunds are typically issued within 21 days if there are no issues. However, refunds for certain taxpayers will not be released until March.
The delay affects filers who claim the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit. The IRS said eligible electronic filers should see their refunds deposited no later than March 2.
The hold is required under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015. The law prevents the IRS from issuing refunds tied to those credits before mid-February, even if a return is processed early in the tax season, which opened Jan. 26 in 2026.
IRS officials say the extra time allows the agency to verify income and confirm identities, a step intended to reduce fraud and prevent incorrect refunds from being issued.
