The Internal Revenue Service is officially processing returns for the current tax season, but some taxpayers will need to wait a bit longer to see their money. While most people who file electronically and use direct deposit receive their funds within 21 days, a specific law requires a hold on certain accounts. If you claimed specific family credits this year, your refund is legally required to be held until mid-February at the earliest. This safety measure helps the government verify information and prevent identity theft before sending out large payments.
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The Impact of the PATH Act on Taxpayers
The delay is not a sign that something is wrong with your return but is instead a result of the PATH Act. This federal law mandates that the IRS cannot release a refund for any return that includes the Earned Income Tax Credit or the Additional Child Tax Credit before February 15. Even if you filed on the very first day the season opened, the agency uses this extra time to match your reported income with the data provided by employers. This process significantly reduces fraud and ensures that the correct amount reaches the right bank account.
When to Check Your Payment Status
If you are waiting for a refund that includes these specific credits, you should see an update on the official status tool starting February 21. By this date, the online system will show a projected deposit date for most early filers who chose electronic options. For those who submitted their paperwork correctly and selected direct deposit, the IRS expects the money to be available in bank accounts by March 2. It is important to remember that banks may take a few additional days to process the transaction once they receive it.
Maximum Benefits for Families This Year
The credits causing these delays are also some of the most valuable benefits available to working families. For the current tax year, the maximum amounts have been updated to provide more support. The Earned Income Tax Credit can provide thousands of dollars depending on your income level and how many children you claim. Additionally, the Child Tax Credit now offers a higher total value per child, with a significant portion being refundable even if you do not owe any taxes.
Summary of Key Credit Amounts for 2026
The following table outlines the maximum potential benefits you might receive depending on your family size and credit eligibility.
| Credit Type | Number of Children | Maximum Credit Amount |
| Earned Income Tax Credit | 0 Children | $664 |
| Earned Income Tax Credit | 1 Child | $4,427 |
| Earned Income Tax Credit | 2 Children | $7,316 |
| Earned Income Tax Credit | 3+ Children | $8,231 |
| Child Tax Credit | Per Child | $2,200 |
| Additional Child Tax Credit | Per Child (Refundable) | $1,700 |
Tips for Tracking Your Money Safely
To stay informed about your payment without falling for scams, keep these points in mind:
- Use the official Where is My Refund tool on the IRS website for the most accurate information.
- Do not expect a status change for EITC or ACTC claims until after the third week of February.
- Verify that your banking information is correct to avoid the refund being sent as a paper check.
- Keep a copy of your filed return so you can enter the exact whole dollar amount when checking status.
