Tax refunds increased significantly in 2026, with filers receiving an average of $3,462—an 11.1% rise compared to the previous year, according to IRS data.

Some of the biggest beneficiaries were service industry workers, who gained from the “no tax on tips” policy promoted by President Donald Trump.

“I was very happy because I didn’t think I was getting any money back,” said Ingrid Mejia, a 53-year-old waitress at the Embassy Diner in Bethpage. Mejia reported receiving about $4,000 in her refund, compared to her usual $1,000.

According to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, tax data showed that 53 million filers received an average of $800 in additional refunds. Around 25 million workers claimed no tax on overtime, with an average deduction of $3,100, while 6 million workers benefited from the no-tax-on-tips provision, averaging $7,100 in deductions.

Approximately 30 million seniors also benefited from enhanced Social Security deductions, averaging $7,500. In addition, more than 1 million people claimed deductions on domestic car loans, with an average benefit of $1,800, based on data as of April 12.

Bessent encouraged workers eligible for overtime benefits to contact their human resources departments to adjust their tax withholding, allowing them to receive the benefits throughout the year instead of waiting for a lump sum during tax season.

He added that although many Americans feel overtaxed, the increased refunds represent a positive outcome for taxpayers.

“Thanks to promises made, promises kept … the president has delivered record refunds to the American people,” Bessent said.