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Estimated Refund
$7,560
Federal Tax Withheld
$9,000
Total Credits
$4,400
Effective Federal Rate
1.7%
Refundable Credits & Payments
How is my federal tax refund worked out?
Your refund is the difference between what you paid and what you owe. Through the year, your employer takes federal tax out of each paycheck. This is called withholding. When you file Form 1040, the IRS works out your real tax bill for the year. If you paid more than the bill, you get the extra back as a refund. If you paid less, you owe the difference.
How much is the Child Tax Credit for 2026?
The Child Tax Credit is worth up to $2,200 for each qualifying child under 17. Up to $1,700 per child can be refunded even if you owe no tax. This refundable part is called the Additional Child Tax Credit, and you need at least $2,500 of earned income to claim it. The credit starts to shrink once your income goes above $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples filing jointly.
Who can claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) in 2026?
The EITC helps workers on low and middle incomes. For 2026 it is worth up to $8,231 with three or more children, $7,316 with two, $4,427 with one, and $664 with none. The credit goes away as income rises. For example, a married couple with three children lose it fully at $70,244. You cannot claim it if you file as married filing separately, or if your investment income is over $12,200.
Why do I owe tax instead of getting a refund?
It usually means too little tax was taken from your pay during the year. This can happen if you had a second job, extra income with no withholding, or your W-4 form was not filled in correctly. Owing money does not mean you did anything wrong. You simply paid less up front. Updating your W-4 with your employer can fix it for next year.
Does this calculator include state taxes?
No. This tool estimates your federal refund only. Most states also charge income tax with their own separate refund. It also assumes you take the standard deduction, which about 9 in 10 taxpayers do. If you itemise deductions or have less common credits, your real refund may differ.
When will I get my 2026 refund?
The IRS says most refunds arrive within 21 days if you file online and choose direct deposit. Paper returns take longer. By law, refunds that include the EITC or the Additional Child Tax Credit cannot be paid before mid-February. You can track your refund with the "Where's My Refund?" tool on irs.gov.
IRS-Aligned: Based on the official 2026 figures in IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32 -- the $2,200 Child Tax Credit (up to $1,700 refundable), the 2026 EITC table, standard deductions and tax brackets as amended by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Assumes the standard deduction and wage income; itemised deductions, investment-income limits for the EITC and less common credits are not modelled. Your actual refund is set by the IRS when you file.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current IRS rates and thresholds for the 2026 tax year. It does not constitute professional tax, financial, or legal advice. Your actual liability may differ depending on your filing status, state of residence, deductions, and individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified tax professional or CPA before making financial decisions. Read our terms
This calculator uses official rates and thresholds from:
- IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32 — 2026 Inflation Adjustments (EITC, CTC)
- IRS — Child Tax Credit
- IRS — Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
- IRS — 2026 Tax Inflation Adjustments (OBBBA)
- IRS Schedule 8812 — Credits for Qualifying Children and Other Dependents
Last verified: August 2026 · Tax year 2026. Results are indicative — consult a qualified accountant for personalised advice.