Taxes 13 February 2026 - 17 February 2026

Trump claims 20% bigger 2026 tax refunds — IRS flags the mistakes that can slow your money

Average IRS tax refunds are up 11% from last year, with early-season data showing $2,290 per filer. President Trump claims some taxpayers could see refunds over 20% higher under his new tax law. The IRS urges e-filing and warns paper checks will be phased out after Sept. 30, 2025. Fewer refunds have been issued so far, down 8.1% year-over-year.

February 19, 2026

Finance·Investing·News·Taxes

H&R Block stock price today: HRB nudges higher as tax season hits crunch time — what’s next

H&R Block shares rose 1.2% to $31.41 in early Tuesday trading after a 9.56% surge Friday ended a nine-day slide. Investors are watching tax-season demand as the IRS expects 164 million returns by April 15. The company reaffirmed its outlook after Q2 results and set a $0.42 dividend with a March 4 record date. Next earnings are due May 6.

February 17, 2026

IRS·News·Personal Finance·Taxes

IRS reopens after Presidents Day — here’s how to check your refund and dodge long hold times

IRS offices and phone lines reopened Tuesday after closing for Presidents Day, with officials warning of heavy call volume during the busy filing season. The agency urged taxpayers to use its online refund tracker, which updates daily, and reminded filers to have all tax records before submitting returns. Scammers often target taxpayers during this period, the IRS said.

February 17, 2026

Canadian Finance·Government Services·News·Taxes

Canada tax season 2026: CRA adds Saturday phone help, faster preparer access and a GenAI chatbot

The Canada Revenue Agency will hire about 1,700 contact-centre staff and add Saturday phone service from March 21 to May 2, targeting a 70% response rate for unique callers during the 2026 tax season. The CRA is steering users to online tools, including a generative AI chatbot, and tightening login security with backup multi-factor authentication.

February 13, 2026