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,

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.

Major tax rule changes could boost 2026 refunds, but new forms, limits and direct deposit rules may delay filing and payouts.