Tax refunds are higher on average this year than last, according to the IRS

Taxpayers on average are getting about $350 more in their refunds in 2026 than they did last year. The most recent data from the IRS reports this year's average tax refund is $3,521, 11% greater than the average refund check in 2025. But experts say some could see a smaller refund or even owe tax next year if they failed to take an important step now.You typically get a refund when you overpay taxes throughout the year. And if you're a W2 employee, that largely depends on how much tax your employer withhold ...