Biden says average tax refunds up about 10 percent

WASHINGTON (AP) - Vice President Joe Biden says average income tax refunds are up nearly 10 percent to just over $3,000, largely due to various tax benefits in last year's economic stimulus bill.

Internal Revenue Service data show the average refund is up more than $260, a 9.6 percent increase over last year.

Since about half of all Americans have yet to file their returns, administration officials are holding events across the country this week reminding taxpayers to take advantage of those benefits on their 2009 tax returns.

The stimulus bill included help for taxpayers for college expenses, buying a first home and making energy-efficiency improvements on their homes, among other tax credits.

Income tax day is April 15.