Key Takeaways

• As of September 30, 2025, the IRS has stopped sending paper refund checks; refunds will now be delivered electronically only.
• Taxpayers need to confirm their bank information with the IRS to avoid delays or lost refunds.
• Paper check payments to the IRS are also expected to phase out soon, meaning electronic payments will become the norm.

The paper refund check is officially history. On September 30, 2025, the IRS began phasing out mailed refund checks. From now on, all refunds will be delivered electronically, right into your bank account.

If you (or your parents) are used to relying on a check in the mail, it’s time to make the switch. Acting now will help you avoid delays, lost refunds, or last-minute headaches at tax time.

Why the Change?

Paper checks are slow to process and too often get lost or stolen. The IRS and Treasury have explained that electronic payments are faster, safer, and far more reliable.

This shift isn’t stopping with refunds. The IRS has already signaled that paper check payments from taxpayers are “next in line” to disappear. Other federal benefits, including Social Security, have already transitioned to electronic-only options.

What This Means for You

Here’s how you can stay on top of these changes:

1. Set up or update your IRS Online Account. This is where you’ll confirm your bank information for direct deposit and manage your refunds.
2. Double-check your bank details on your next tax return. Make sure your routing and account numbers are correct, so your refund isn’t delayed.
3. If you receive federal benefits, switch now. Use direct deposit or a Direct Express® Debit Mastercard® so your payments keep flowing without interruption.
4. Prepare to pay electronically. Options like IRS Direct Pay and the EFTPS system (for larger or scheduled payments) are already available.

We Are Here to Help

Change like this can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves the IRS. But you don’t have to handle it alone. Our team has created the following handouts to help you through this process, and are also happy to answer any questions you have.

• Set Up Your IRS Online Account with ID.me
• Enroll in Direct Deposit or Direct Express

At Account Sense, our goal is to make these transitions easier for you. Going digital isn’t just about technology, it’s also about keeping your financial life safe, simple, and stress-free.

The Bottom Line

The paper refund check is gone for good. Don’t wait until tax season to scramble and take a few simple steps now to make sure your refunds and payments are set up for the digital future. And remember, if you need a hand, we’re only a call or email away.