2026 Tax Refund Update: How the OBBBA is Impacting Your Return

We are officially in the thick of the 2026 tax filing season, and the early numbers from the IRS are painting an interesting picture. Across the nation, we are seeing the average refund land at $2,476, up roughly 14.2% from $2,169 last year. While this increase of just over $300 isn't quite the $1,000 windfalls some policymakers predicted, it is a definitive step in the right direction. At Dixson Tax Resolution Services LLC, we are seeing firsthand how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is influencing these numbers as returns are processed.

While statistics are helpful, what matters most is how these changes apply to your specific financial situation, whether you are running a business in Dallas or managing family finances in San Diego.

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Key OBBBA Provisions Driving Refunds

The OBBBA has introduced a suite of deductions and credits designed to lower tax liability. Here is what we are currently applying to eligible client returns:

  • Overtime Pay Deduction: Hard work should be rewarded. The "half" of your "time-and-a-half" pay is now deductible, capped at $12,500 for singles and $25,000 for married couples filing jointly.

  • Tips Tax Deduction: This is a game-changer for service professionals, particularly in hospitality hubs like Orlando. Workers in qualified tipped occupations can deduct up to $25,000 of qualified tips annually. (Married filers must file jointly). Note: Both overtime and tip deductions phase out starting at $150,000 MAGI ($300,000 for joint filers).

  • Auto Loan Interest: Did you buy a new, U.S.-assembled vehicle for personal use after 2024? You may be able to deduct up to $10,000 of interest, provided the loan is secured by the vehicle. Phase-outs begin at $100,000 MAGI.

  • Senior & Standard Deductions: The standard deduction has jumped to $31,500 for married joint filers and $15,750 for singles. Plus, there is a "Senior Bonus" of $6,000 for those over 65, which begins phasing out at $75,000 MAGI.

  • Child Tax Credit Expansion: The credit is now $2,200 per child. This benefit is fully available to married couples earning up to $400,000 and single heads of household up to $200,000.

  • SALT Limit Increase: For our clients in high-tax areas like San Diego, this is welcome relief. The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap has risen from $10,000 to $40,000, though it begins to phase down for those with MAGI over $500,000.

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Hidden Factors Boosting Returns

Beyond the new law, other mechanics are quietly increasing refund amounts:

  • Withholding Gaps: Because tax cuts were enacted without immediate updates to IRS withholding tables, many taxpayers had too much tax taken out of their paychecks last year—resulting in larger refunds now.

  • Inflation Adjustments: The IRS adjusted brackets to account for the cost of living, which helps prevent "bracket creep" and keeps more money in your pocket.

  • Refundable Adoption Credit: Up to $5,000 of the Adoption Tax Credit is now refundable, meaning you can receive it as cash even if you owe zero tax.

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Navigating IRS Challenges

While the refunds are promising, the administration of them is facing hurdles. The IRS has lost a significant portion of its workforce since January 2025 and is battling a backlog of returns. We are seeing a decrease in processing speeds, which can be frustrating for taxpayers anxious for their money.

This environment of new laws and slower agency response is exactly why you need a professional in your corner. At Dixson Tax Resolution Services LLC, we specialize in cutting through the confusion. Whether it is unfiled returns or ensuring you get every OBBBA benefit you are owed, we provide clarity.

Under the guidance of Felecia G. Dixson, EA, CTRC, ATA, our team is fully versed in these new provisions. If you are hesitant to file because you are unsure of your eligibility or worried about IRS enforcement trends, contact us. We are here to protect your rights and maximize your result.

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