IRS to phase out paper tax refund checks starting with individual taxpayers

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service, working with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, today announced that paper tax refund checks for individual taxpayers will be phased out beginning on Sept. 30, 2025, as required by Executive Order 14247, to the extent permitted by law. This marks the first step of the broader transition to electronic payments.

The IRS will publish detailed guidance for 2025 tax returns before the 2026 filing season begins. Until further notice, taxpayers should continue using existing forms and procedures, including those filing their 2024 returns on extension of a due date prior to Dec. 31, 2025.

What this means for individual taxpayers
•Filing stays the same: Taxpayers should continue to file their returns as they normally would, using one of the existing filing options.
•Refunds go digital: Most refunds will be delivered by direct deposit or other secure electronic methods.
•Help for those without access to bank accounts: Options such as prepaid debit cards, digital wallets or limited exceptions will be available.
•Act now: Taxpayers should make sure they know their banking information or consider opening a free or low-cost account.

Next steps
Executive Order 14247 also applies to payments made to the IRS. Taxpayers should continue to use existing payment options until further notice. Additional guidance and information for filing 2025 taxes will be issued prior to the 2026 filing season.

The IRS will share updated guidance on IRS.gov/modernpayments and through outreach efforts nationwide.

(Source of quote)
IR-2025-94, Sept. 23, 2025