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Tax Refunds and Consumer Behavior: Insights from Trustpilot's Survey

This year's tax season brings with it a cautious attitude from American taxpayers, as encapsulated in a recent survey conducted by Trustpilot, the leading open feedback platform. Released on March 26, 2026, the survey uncovered how individuals plan to use their tax refunds and the broader implications of their financial behaviors.

Financial Parental Guidance
Trustpilot's survey sampled approximately 1,000 adults across the U.S., revealing a clear trend: a significant portion of Americans are wary of how they will allocate their tax refunds this year. While tax refunds are typically viewed as an opportunity for spending, this year many respondents indicated a shift towards saving and debt repayment. Nearly 40% of Americans expressed intentions to save their refunds instead of splurging on goods or services. A notable 26% also indicated plans to use their refunds to pay off debts such as credit cards or loans.

Budgeting Under Strain
The survey results highlight a broader concern with financial stability among many households. Over 42% of respondents stated they would find it challenging to cover an unexpected tax bill of $1,000, indicating a financial strain that influences consumer behavior. Meanwhile, more than 54% anticipate their tax situation will result in them breaking even, which diminishes the potential for extra spending. Taylor Cunningham, Vice President of U.S. Marketing at Trustpilot, noted, "When a substantial majority expect to break even, it signals tighter budgets and a more intentional approach to spending."

Rethinking Tax Preparation with AI
Interestingly, despite the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in various sectors, a significant portion of Americans appear hesitant when it comes to incorporating it into their tax preparation. 32% reported they wouldn’t use AI tools for tax advice, with varying levels of trust shown towards AI's accuracy in tax guidance. Overall, 27% expressed distrust, while 36% felt neutral about its capabilities, showing the divide in confidence when integrating technology into sensitive financial decisions, such as tax filing.

Waiting Until the Last Minute
The procrastination surrounding tax filing is also noteworthy this year. Nearly 47% of participants reported plans to file closer to the deadline, revealing a common trend likely driven by a desire to conserve cash. The time and effort required for accurate tax preparation have prompted nearly 33% of respondents to save their funds in case of an owed amount, further complicating the decision-making process.

When it comes to selecting tax preparation services, cost remains a pivotal factor. 45% of Americans stated they would only consider free services for tax preparation, while others expressed willingness to pay varying amounts, primarily staying below $300.

Complexities and Confidence in Filing
Navigating the tax filing process continues to pose challenges for many. Trustpilot's findings suggest that 66% of respondents lack full confidence that their taxes are filed correctly. This uncertainty stems from multiple factors, including new tax provisions and the increasing complexity of relevant regulations that may cause confusion.

Credibility Through Reviews
In a landscape marked by uncertainty, many individuals are turning to trusted online reviews to guide their choices regarding tax preparation services—41% rely on reviews while 31% consult family members for insights. Such options reflect a deeply rooted desire for reassurance during a stressful period.

With almost 65% stating they expect tax service providers to have ratings of at least four stars for their consideration, leveraging peer feedback is emerging as a popular strategy for consumers as they navigate their tax responsibilities.

Conclusion
Trustpilot's survey results paint a comprehensive picture of how Americans approach tax season in 2026—reflecting a cautious, financially prudent mindset amidst economic uncertainties. With many prioritizing savings and debt management over lavish spending, taxpayer confidence in filing accurately only enhances the necessity for informed decision-making through reliable resources. Ultimately, how consumers tackle the intricacies of taxation will continue to shape trends in financial behavior, influencing both market decisions and service offerings in the future.