The 2026 tax season is nearing its end, with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) processing over 78 million tax returns by late March and issuing 57 million refunds totaling more than $202 billion. Taxpayers are reminded that the last day to file taxes is April 15, 2026, and any taxes owed must be paid by this date, even if an extension is requested. Due to recent changes in operations at the United States Postal Service (USPS), there may be delays in mail processing, potentially affecting the postmark date of mailed returns. To avoid penalties, taxpayers are advised to mail their returns 3 to 5 business days before the deadline or opt for electronic filing. The IRS imposes a 5% penalty per month on late returns, capped at 25% of the owed tax, while those who do not owe taxes or are expecting refunds typically face no penalties. Refunds for electronic filings usually arrive within 21 days, while paper returns may take longer. Taxpayers can track their refund status online using the IRS's tool.