The 2026 tax filing season in the United States presents a timely and practical opportunity for diasporans and other individuals to support ongoing Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts in Jamaica, while also reinforcing their own financial resilience, according to Harry Bhoorasingh, senior country manager for JN Money Services USA.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) began accepting and processing federal tax returns in late January, with the annual filing deadline for most individual taxpayers set for April 15. Several states have different deadlines, and certain taxpayers also have the option to file for an extension up to October.
Bhoorasingh, a seasoned remittance official, said that while several new tax law provisions in the ‘One, Big, Beautiful Bill’ could affect federal taxes, credits, and deductions this year, contributions from these refunds can provide a financial boost and hope for many families and communities in western Jamaica dealing with hurricane-related damage and disruption.
“Every year, households rely on tax refunds to meet important financial needs, and after the devastation of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica last October, these funds could also play a role in recovery—helping with home repairs, temporary relocation, replacing damaged appliances, or supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs rebuilding their operations,” said Bhoorasingh. He emphasized that secure and structured remittance channels, such as those offered through JN Money, can ensure that funds reach intended recipients safely and efficiently.
“There are several flexible options for sending funds, including transfers to a bank account in Jamaica or for pick-up at an agent. At JN Money, we also offer a JN Money card, which recipients can use conveniently at ATMs and POS machines, or you can send funds directly to cover bills and top up mobile phones. These are all practical ways to make an immediate difference for families and individuals still affected by Hurricane Melissa,” he said.
Bhoorasingh stressed that refunds, whether used for home repairs, construction, or even as a gift, also help support local economic activity, especially as Jamaica faces significant fiscal and economic pressures following the category 5 storm. Highlighting international financial support and recent revenue measures announced by the government to aid recovery, he noted that remittances contributed through these diaspora tax refunds can complement these efforts by providing flexible, timely resources to those who need them most.
Outside of recovery activities, he suggested that refunds could also support broader household stability, such as replenishing emergency savings, paying down high-interest debt, or investing in home improvements that increase resilience against disasters.
The senior country manager noted that careful preparation can help maximize refunds and make them work harder over time.
“Tax refunds don’t have to be just a one-time windfall. They can be a smart way to make your money work harder, helping you reinforce your financial stability today and build a stronger foundation for the future,” he said. “Through JN Money, you can also send your tax refunds to a savings or investment account in Jamaica, allowing your funds to grow over time and helping you prepare for retirement or build resources for future emergencies and opportunities with minimal effort.”
