Feb 12, 2026
We’re officially in tax season and many Americans are eagerly awaiting their refunds.
But for millions, their tax refunds could be delayed by weeks. That’s according to a recent post by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which suggests that regulations could delay the processing time for taxpayers who benefit from two relatively popular programs (1).
Advertisement
“We may need more information from you about your return,” the agency says on its website. If you think your refunds may be impacted, here’s what you need to know.
2 popular tax credits causing delays
In most cases, the IRS insists tax refunds are processed within 21 days (2).
However, the agency also points out that in some cases, you may need to provide additional information and that could delay the process of issuing refunds to certain individuals.
In 2026, taxpayers who are eligible for two specific programs — Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) — could be impacted by this delay.
The agency suggests beneficiaries of these two popular programs could see their refunds by March 2nd, if they file their taxes online, choose to get a refund via direct debit and if the agency finds no issues or gaps in the return.
If the IRS does spot a gap, it might send out a letter to request clarification, possibly delaying the process further.
If you’re wondering why the agency can’t issue a partial refund while it processes these two credits, the IRS points to federal regulations as a roadblock.
Advertisement
Under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, anyone receiving these two credits cannot be issued a refund until the end of February, according to the Taxpayer Advocate Service (3). This rule compels the agency to withhold the entire refund — not just the portion that is associated with these two programs.
Unfortunately, given how popular these programs are, millions of ordinary families could face a delay in much needed cash relief.
Must Read
- Dave Ramsey warns nearly 50% of Americans are making 1 big Social Security mistake — here’s what it is and the simple steps to fix it ASAP
- Robert Kiyosaki begs investors not to miss this ‘explosion’ — says this 1 asset will surge 400% in a year
- Vanguard reveals what could be coming for U.S. stocks, and it’s raising alarm bells for retirees. Here’s why and how to protect yourself
Join 250,000+ readers and get Moneywise’s best stories and exclusive interviews first — clear insights curated and delivered weekly. Subscribe now.
Millions could be impacted
The delay could impact families that depend on EITC and ACTC as a critical financial lifeline.
According to the IRS, nearly 24 million eligible individuals and families claimed the EITC, as of the end of December, 2025 (4). Altogether, the program provided $70 billion in total benefits and, in 2024, the average beneficiary received roughly $2,894 in this form of credit.
Simply put, this is a major program that millions of families across the country lean on every year. Given its scale and reach, the program remains a core pillar of the U.S. tax-based safety net, particularly for workers with children and those in lower-wage sectors. And the delay in issuing their refunds this year could have far-reaching impacts.
Advertisement
If you’re part of this group, there are ways to monitor your refunds and prevent any further delays to getting your money.
Track your refund
Although your refund may be delayed, if you’re receiving the two credits mentioned above, the IRS publishes tracking information earlier.
By February 21, you may be able to see a refund status on the IRS Where’s My Refund tool (5). This personalized refund status is updated once a day and is one of the best ways to check on the progress of your filing.
As long as you have your Social Security number, filing status and refund amount, you should be able to see if your refund was approved, sent or received. There could also be a mailing date.
If you notice any delays, reach out to the agency to see if they require any additional information or corrections to speed things along.
It’s also worth remembering that the delay impacts the timing of the refund, not the amount. So, rest assured that you and your family will ultimately get the full amount of your refund.
Article sources
We rely only on vetted sources and credible third-party reporting. For details, see our editorial ethics and guidelines.
IRS (1, 2, 4, 5); Taxpayer Advocate Service (3)
You May Also Like
- Turning 50 with $0 saved for retirement? Most people don’t realize they’re actually just entering their prime earning decade. Here are 6 ways to catch up fast
- This 20-year-old lotto winner refused $1M in cash and chose $1,000/week for life. Now she’s getting slammed for it. Which option would you pick?
- Warren Buffett used these 8 repeatable money rules to turn $9,800 into a $150B fortune. Start using them today to get rich (and stay rich)
- Here are 5 easy ways to own multiple properties like Bezos and Beyoncé. You can start with $10 (and no, you don’t have to manage a single thing)
Vishesh Raisinghani is a financial journalist covering personal finance, investing and the global economy. He's also the founder of Sharpe Ascension Inc., a content marketing agency focused on investment firms. His work has appeared in Moneywise, Yahoo Finance!, Motley Fool, Seeking Alpha, Mergers & Acquisitions Magazine and Piggybank.
