The average federal tax refund this filing season has climbed to roughly $3,500, representing a jump of more than 10% compared with the same period in 2025, according to IRS data.New deductions introduced through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including breaks on tips, overtime, and auto loan interest, have pushed refund checks higher for millions of households across the country.For many families, that refund may be the single largest lump sum they receive all year. The temptation to spend it on wants rather than needs is strong, especially after months of rising gas prices that have…
From the Field