As Americans enter January 2026, tax refunds remain an important financial topic across the country. While most federal refunds were already issued earlier, millions of U.S. taxpayers are still tracking delayed or second-phase refunds, especially those who filed late, corrected returns, or requested extensions.
State revenue departments across the U.S. have confirmed that over $1 billion in combined refunds has already been distributed, but a second wave of payments is still underway for eligible filers who were not part of the first release.
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Why Some U.S. Taxpayers Are Still Waiting in 2026 ?
Refund processing in the U.S. does not happen all at once. Both federal and state tax agencies release payments in planned weekly batches to prevent system overload and reduce errors.
If you did not receive your refund in 2025, it does not automatically mean you are ineligible. Many payments are delayed due to:
- Filing extensions
- Identity verification
- Corrections or amended returns
- Outstanding government debts
Common Refund Amounts Still Being Issued
While refund amounts vary by income, filing status, and location, many Americans are seeing standard refund ranges based on how they filed.
Typical Refund Ranges Still Being Paid
| Filing Status | Common Refund Range |
|---|---|
| Single Filers | $200 – $300 |
| Head of Household | $300 – $400 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $400 – $600 |
Amounts vary by state rules, credits claimed, and tax withholding.
Extension Filers: Key Group in January 2026
Taxpayers who requested extensions for their 2024 tax returns had until October 15, 2025 to file. These filers were not included in early refund waves, which is why many are receiving payments between late 2025 and early 2026.
- January 2026 remains an active payout period
- Processing continues in weekly cycles
- Direct deposits and mailed checks are still going out
How to Track Your U.S. Tax Refund ?
To check your refund status, taxpayers should use:
- The IRS “Where’s My Refund?” tool for federal refunds
- Individual state revenue department portals for state refunds
You will typically need:
- Social Security Number or ITIN
- Filing status
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
Reasons Your Refund May Be Delayed
If your refund shows “approved” but hasn’t arrived, possible reasons include:
- Offsets for unpaid taxes, child support, or government loans
- Bank processing delays for direct deposits
- Mail delays for paper checks
- Minor filing errors requiring manual review
When deposited, refunds may appear under different descriptions depending on the issuing agency.
Important Tax Reminder for U.S. Taxpayers
- Some state refunds may be taxable on your federal return
- Taxpayers who itemized deductions are more likely affected
- Most Americans receiving certain refunds will get a 1099-G form in early 2026
This form must be included when filing your 2025 federal taxes.
As of January 2026, tax refund payments are still being issued across the United States, particularly for extension filers and delayed cases. While most Americans received refunds earlier, millions are still in line due to processing schedules and verification steps.
If you are still waiting, checking your refund status regularly and reviewing your filing details can help avoid unnecessary delays.
FAQs
Can I still get a tax refund in January 2026?
Yes. Many extension filers and delayed cases are still receiving refunds in early 2026.
Why was my tax refund delayed?
Delays can occur due to extensions, verification checks, offsets, or filing corrections.
Will I receive a tax form for my refund?
Some refunds require a 1099-G, usually sent in early 2026.