Trump Announces Big Tax Refund Season
White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett delivered encouraging news for American taxpayers this weekend, predicting what could be the largest tax refund season in U.S. history when Americans file their 2026 returns.
Appearing on Fox News Sunday, Hassett said recent tax legislation passed last summer will result in substantial refunds for millions of workers and retirees. Because the bill became law late in the year, the IRS was unable to fully update its forms in time—meaning taxes collected under previous rules are now expected to be refunded.
According to Hassett, the biggest beneficiaries will include overtime workers, seniors, and Americans who earn tip income. He explained that many of these taxpayers paid more throughout the year than required under the new law, setting the stage for unusually large refunds once filing season arrives.
Hassett described the outlook as positive news for households that have struggled with higher costs in recent years, calling the coming tax season a major financial relief for middle-class Americans.
The comments come as affordability remains a top concern nationwide. President Donald Trump, speaking during a recent address, said he inherited a difficult economic environment but has made significant progress since returning to office. Trump pointed to easing price pressures on several everyday goods and said his administration has focused on restoring economic stability for working families and retirees.
“Over the past 11 months, we have brought more positive change to Washington than any administration in American history,” Trump said. “There has never been anything like it.”
Despite those claims, inflation and prices remain a key issue for voters. A recent Fox News poll found that 42 percent of registered voters believe the administration should focus even more on lowering high prices, making it the top concern among respondents. Health care ranked second, far behind at 19 percent.
Democratic leaders responded sharply to Trump’s remarks. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized the address and blamed trade policies for higher household costs. Republicans and Trump supporters, however, argue that tax relief, deregulation, and stronger wage growth are positioning Americans for higher take-home pay and meaningful tax refunds in the year ahead.
As filing season approaches, many taxpayers—especially seniors and hourly workers—will be watching closely to see whether Hassett’s prediction of a record-breaking refund year becomes reality.
