How to Get IRS Refund Checks This Year: Step by Step

• It’s Important to Know How to Receive IRS Refund Checks
• New Deductions Benefit Families and Older Adults
• Filing on Time Is Key to Getting More Money

The tax season in the United States has already begun. For millions of people, it could bring a positive surprise in the form of higher refunds.

Recent changes in the One Big Beautiful Bill and adjustments by the Internal Revenue Service open up new opportunities. This comes at a time of inflation and increased pressure on household budgets.

In 2025, the average refund was $3,151. With the new adjustments, it could rise to nearly $4,151 per taxpayer.

That increase of almost $1,000 is not automatic. It depends on each person’s tax situation and how they file their return.

Who Could Receive More Money From the IRS

One of the most significant changes is the increase in the standard deduction. It is now $15,750 for single filers and $31,500 for married couples filing jointly.

This adjustment benefits most taxpayers, especially those who do not itemize deductions on their return.

The child tax credit was also increased. The maximum benefit rose from $2,000 to $2,200 per eligible child.

For many families, this change could make a meaningful difference, reflected directly in a larger refund.

Older Adults and Other Temporary Benefits

People over the age of 65 could also benefit. A new $6,000 deduction was created for this group.

This deduction applies up to certain income levels and will be in effect between the 2025 and 2028 tax years.

Other changes include temporary exemptions, such as income from tips, overtime pay, and auto loans.

The SALT deduction cap was also increased, rising from $10,000 to $40,000, which benefits certain taxpayers.

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How and When to Get IRS Refund Checks

According to the IRS, if you paid more taxes than you owed, you may be eligible for a refund. Even if no taxes were paid, certain credits can still result in a payment.

• To receive a refund, filing a tax return is mandatory. The filing method affects how long it takes to receive the money.
• Electronically filed returns are usually processed within up to 21 days. Returns sent by mail can take six weeks or longer.
• The IRS offers the tool “Where’s My Refund?” available at www.irs.gov/es/wheres-my-refund or by phone at 800-829-1954.

Not all taxpayers will benefit equally. According to the IRS, approximately 90% of filers do not itemize deductions.

Reviewing the changes and filing on time can make a real difference. For many people, the 2026 tax season could bring unexpected financial relief.