- Tax season may start later than usual. IRS leadership has indicated that the filing season could begin around mid-February 2026, due to significant changes to the tax law and operational challenges.
- Reforming the tax code increases the IRS’s workload. The omnibus One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA) requires updated forms and guidance, which complicates system programming and setup.
- Staffing cuts and addressing the impact of the closure. IRS staffing has declined sharply and a prolonged federal shutdown has halted planning, increasing the risk of processing slowdowns and decreased customer service during the 2026 season.
For years, taxpayers have been filing inaugural season returns Late January. But for Tax year 2026Current expectations indicate a It starts much later.
according to Comments from IRS leadershipThe agency is preparing for the filing season that could open Around Presidents Day: mid-February 2026. This reflects the additional workload resulting from the provisions of the new tax law and the need for additional preparation time.
If you are expecting a tax refund, the most common advice is that you should file your tax return as soon as possible. There’s no reason to let the government keep your money any longer.
Even if you e-file early, we estimate that the IRS will not begin processing your tax return until February 17, 2026. You can check the Tax Refund Estimated Calendar to find out when to expect your tax refund.
The IRS is under pressure
The IRS is under a mountain of workload and fewer people to do it.
Major changes in tax law
The main reason for this late season is Big, beautiful bill (OBBBA), which was enacted in July 2025. This expanded rewrite of the tax code includes both retrospective and forward-looking changes that affect deductions, credits, brackets, and compliance rules. Tax professionals and preparers warn that this adds complexity to forms and software, requiring additional time for the IRS’s systems and guidance to catch up.
The retroactive provisions may affect 2025 tax year returns (those filed in 2026) meaning the IRS must reprogram these changes in processing systems before returns can be reliably accepted and processed.
Budget cuts and staffing losses
Further complicating matters is the significant reduction in IRS staff. In 2025 the agency lost more than 25% of its workforce Through resignations and hiring freezes, overall funding has declined sharply compared to recent years.
Private tax authority National Taxpayer Advocate Independent watchdogs have warned that staff loss, especially among trained therapists and phone support staff, could slow returns processing and customer service in 2026 unless hiring and training occurs quickly.
Shutdowns and operational interruptions
A Long government shutdown In October and November 2025, the IRS’s preparations for the 2026 filing season were also disrupted. Interrupted hiring, interrupted planning cycles, and delayed access to critical systems during the shutdown mean the agency is scrambling to catch up.
Check out our Tax refund calendar for latest updates.
What does this mean for delayed tax refunds?
So, how long will my tax return be late? It all depends…
PATH Act and Reserve Refunds
In years past, taxpayers have been demanding Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) It saw built-in delays due to the PATH Act, which requires the IRS to delay refunds until mid-February to reduce fraud.
These delays may disappear this year because the entire filing season may start later. If the IRS doesn’t start accepting returns until about an hour later February 16-17The refund moratorium period under the PATH Act overlaps with an already later timeline.
Processing times will likely be longer
Even after filing, taxpayers should expect this Slower processing Compared to recent tax years.
Reduced IRS staff and the complexity of the new tax law mean that returns (especially paper returns or those with errors) may take longer to process. This can translate into slower recoveries and longer wait times for assistance via phone or correspondence.
Industry forecasts indicate that typical refund delivery times may be:
- E-File + Direct Deposit: ~21 days
- Returns by mail or paper check: Up to 12 weeks
But these estimates assume the IRS can accept returns quickly and operate at full capacity — conditions that may not be met this early in the season.
If you want more information, read frequently asked IRS Questions and Answers here for more information.
What can you do now?
Here are some steps to prepare before this stressful and complex tax season:
- Gather documents ahead of time. Don’t wait until the IRS opens to put your W-2, 1099, and other forms together.
- File electronically with direct deposit. This is the fastest way to get refunds once deposits are accepted.
- Consider working with a tax professional. Given the complexity of OBBBA changes, a preparer can help avoid errors that lead to processing delays.
- Check for IRS updates. The IRS has its own “Standby” resources. With tips and advice for the 2026 filing season.
If you want to start doing your taxes early, check out our picks for the best tax software for early tax filers.
Have you found that your tax refund has been delayed due to this new law?
