The Internal Revenue Service has updated its refund timeline for the 2026 tax season, with many pending payments now expected to be issued in March. Taxpayers who filed earlier but have not yet received their refunds may see movement in the coming weeks.
This update comes as the IRS continues to process a high volume of returns while completing additional verification checks for certain filings.
March 2026 Refund Update
According to the latest processing trends, refunds that were delayed or still under review are now being scheduled for March payments. This includes taxpayers who:
- Filed in late January or early February
- Claimed credits that require additional verification
- Experienced processing delays due to minor errors or mismatched details
Most of these refunds are expected to be released gradually throughout March.
Who Will Receive Refunds in March
Taxpayers likely to receive refunds in March include:
- Those claiming Earned Income Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit
- Returns flagged for identity or income verification
- Filers who chose direct deposit but faced processing delays
The IRS typically holds certain refunds for additional checks before releasing payments.
Estimated Payment Timeline
While exact dates vary, current estimates suggest:
- Early March: Pending January filers begin receiving deposits
- Mid-March: Majority of February filers receive refunds
- Late March: Remaining delayed returns processed and issued
These timelines depend on the accuracy of the return and the method of filing.
How to Check Your Refund Status
Taxpayers can track their refund using the official “Where’s My Refund” tool provided by the IRS. It offers updates on processing, approval, and payment stages.
To check your status, you will need:
- Social Security Number
- Filing status
- Exact refund amount
The tool updates once every 24 hours.
Common Reasons for Delays
Some refunds are delayed due to:
- Errors in tax return details
- Incorrect bank information
- Additional verification for tax credits
- High processing volume during peak season
Ensuring accurate filing and choosing direct deposit can help reduce delays.
What You Should Do Now
If your refund is still pending:
- Check your status regularly using the IRS tool
- Avoid filing duplicate returns
- Wait for official updates before contacting the IRS
Most delayed refunds are expected to be cleared during March processing cycles.
Final Thoughts
The latest IRS update confirms that March will be a key month for pending refund payments. Taxpayers who have been waiting should see progress soon as the IRS clears backlogs and releases scheduled deposits.