Name: Staff reductions at IRS could slow your tax refund, experts say
Uploaded: 2026-03-23T17:59:25.213Z
Duration: 1 min 40 s
Description: In 2025, 160 million returns were filed, and with 25,000 fewer IRS employees processing those returns in 2026, experts say it could spell trouble for those still waiting on their refund.

In 2025, 160 million returns were filed, and with 25,000 fewer IRS employees processing those returns in 2026, experts say it could spell trouble for those still waiting on their refund.

A reduction of 25,000 employees at the IRS this year may result in slower processing of tax refunds, particularly for those who file paper returns or have complex filings requiring manual review. Experts note that electronic filers can still expect refunds within 21 days, but paper filers could face delays of four weeks or more.

Financial professionals advise taxpayers to file early, use electronic filing with direct deposit, and check for errors to expedite refunds. The average refund this year has increased by over 10.5% to $3,676, and experts suggest using refunds to pay off debt, increase savings, or contribute to retirement accounts.

Staff reductions at IRS could slow your tax refund, experts say

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Florida

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Washington

Iran Strikes

Middle East Conflict

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Brussels

Ukraine Invasion

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Baghdad

American journalist Shelly Kittleson kidnapped in Iraq

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Cape Canaveral

NASA's Artemis II mission set to launch

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Jupiter

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Beirut

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London

Syrian president Al-Sharaa meets UK PM Starmer in London

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Madrid

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Tehran

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Havana

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Breakdown