this IRS An important update was shared for the millions of taxpayers still waiting for their tax refunds of up to $8,046.
This update primarily affects those claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC). The IRS has warned that refunds for these taxpayers may be delayed due to PATH Act.
Under the law, the IRS must hold refunds until at least mid-February to help prevent fraud.
“This includes your entire tax refund, not just the portion related to the credits you claimed on your tax return,” the IRS says.
“If you claim the EITC or ACTC, we may need more information from you on your tax return. We will send you a letter if required.”
Because of this rule, many people may not see their refunds until late February or early March. Officials said those who filed online, opted for direct deposit and returned without issues should receive their refunds by Monday. However, some payments may take longer if the bank requires additional time to process the deposit.
Taxpayers can track the status of their refund using the IRS’s “Where’s My Refund” tool.
Also read: 2026 IRS Refunds: Why Some Refunds Are Delayed Under the PATH Act; View February Schedule
How much are credits worth?
2026 is expected to be the biggest tax refund season ever, and many Americans are waiting for their payments.
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
The EITC is a fully refundable federal tax credit For low- and moderate-income workers.
For the 2025 tax year, the maximum credit for taxpayers with three or more qualifying children is $8,046.
Taxpayers with two children could receive up to $7,152.
People with one child could receive up to $4,328.
People without children can receive up to $649.
Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)
The ACTC is the refundable portion of the child tax credit. It helps taxpayers who have little to no tax liability.
If someone qualifies for the child tax credit and their tax bill drops to $0 before using the full credit, they can receive a refund of up to $1,700 per qualifying child.
To qualify for the ACTC, taxpayers must meet the basic requirements for the child tax credit and have an income of at least $2,500.
Documents required for tax filing
The IRS recommends that taxpayers wait until they have all necessary documentation before filing. These include:
- W-2 form provided by employer
- 1099 forms from banks, government agencies and other payers, including unemployment benefits, dividends, pensions, annuities or retirement plan distributions
- Form 1099-K, 1099-MISC, W-2 or other gig economy job income statement
- Interest Income Form 1099-INT
- Other income records and digital asset transaction records
- Form 1095-A (Health Insurance Market Statement) is used to reconcile a prepayment or claim a premium tax credit
- Letter from the IRS or other agency
- CP01A notification with new identity protection PIN
