Tax Refund Calculator
Estimate your 2026 federal tax refund or balance due from your income, deductions and tax withheld.
About the Tax Refund Calculator
A refund is the difference between what was withheld from your pay (plus estimated payments and refundable credits) and your actual tax. A large refund means you over-withheld during the year; adjust your W-4 to keep more in each paycheck.
The formula
Refund = withholding + payments + refundable credits − total tax
Worked example
Example: Estimated amount owed = $498
- Inputs: Filing status: Single; Total income: $94,000; Pre-tax deductions: $6,600; Itemized deductions (0 to use the standard deduction): $0; Children under 17: 0; People aged 65 or older on the return: 0; Federal tax withheld (W-2 box 2) + estimated payments: $9,900.
- Formula: Refund = withholding + payments + refundable credits − total tax
- Result: Estimated amount owed = $498
- Federal tax: $10,398
- Taxable income: $71,300
Things to keep in mind
- Federal only; doesn't include the earned income credit, education credits or self-employment tax.
Questions people ask
When will I get my refund?
Most e-filed refunds with direct deposit arrive within 21 days, per the IRS.
Is a big refund good?
It's money you lent the government at 0%; many prefer smaller withholding.