Counting on a tax refund or stimulus check? 5 things to know before filing your taxes

Approximately 18 million people are on some form of unemployment assistance and savings rates are drooping along with personal income. Between August and December, a growing number of people said it’s hard paying for usual household expenses.

Income tax refunds — and claims on missed stimulus checks — may not be a welcome surge in cash this year. They might be a financial lifeline.

Refunds last year averaged $2,535, which is more than the first $1,200 stimulus check and the second $600 payment combined.

The Internal Revenue Service knows the stakes going into Feb. 12, the date when it will start…