
NRF has been conducting its annual Tax Returns Survey since 2007 to gauge consumer spending and saving behavior related to U.S. income tax returns. The 2022 annual tax return survey conducted by NRF and Prosper Insights & Analytics found that 59% of consumers expect a refund this year.
About the survey: The 2022 survey of 7,929 U.S. adults 18 and older was conducted February 1-8 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.1 percentage points.
Historical highlights
- 2019: Slower tax refunds and weather affect April retail sales but fundamentals 'remain positive'
- 2018: Consumers using tax refunds to pay down debt
- 2017: Consumers plan to save their tax refunds for later
- 2016: Consumers build confidence by saving tax refunds
- 2015: Americans planning to save, not splurge, with tax refunds
Results of the Tax Returns Survey are released each year in February.
More on consumer trends
3 sustainability trends to watch
Consumer sentiment, demand for transparency and technology are driving retail-focused sustainability efforts.
Read more
Here’s how consumers are celebrating moms this Mother’s Day
Flowers, jewelry and gifts of experience all rank high on the list
Read more
Earth Day confessional: An interview with NRF’s VP for sustainability
Scot Case discusses retail sustainability, how to measure it and why he cares about it.
Read more
Mother’s Day Spending to Reach Record High
Mother’s Day spending is expected to total $31.7 billion this year.
Read more
2 types of shoppers brands should pay attention to this Earth Day
Insights about messaging and initiatives to help retailers reach sustainably minded consumers.
Read more
3 ways parents are making Easter special this year
Plans may look different this year, but there's no stopping the Easter Bunny.
Read more