01/18/2026
Instead of chasing a huge refund, aim for the right one; a large, incorrect refund means you overpaid and the IRS can reclaim it with interest and penalties, so file accurately to avoid future issues like audits and demands for repayment. A smaller refund often means you kept more of your own money throughout the year, while a massive one signals you lent the government an interest-free loan, with the IRS eventually correcting the error and charging fees for their mistake