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Preparing for Paper Check Refunds Ending This Fall
Last revised: August 21, 2025
In March 2025, the federal government issued an Executive Order that will end paper check tax refunds starting at the end of September 2025. If you currently receive your refund by paper check, you’ll need to use direct deposit into a bank account or another electronic option moving forward.
To make sure you’re ready when it’s time to file to avoid delays with your refund, read below.
Important Note: The IRS has not yet released full details on how this change will be implemented. We will update this post as more information becomes available. Please check back for the latest guidance and note the “last revised” date at the top of this post to ensure you’re viewing the most recent information.
What This Change Means for Tax Filers
- Paper checks for refunds will end. Beginning late September 2025, refunds will be sent through direct deposit or other electronic payment options.
- If you receive your tax refund through direct deposit, you don’t need to take any action.
- If your payment method was previously a paper check, you’ll need to open a bank account (if you don’t already have one) so you’re ready to use direct deposit when you file your next return. Some filers may choose to add their bank information directly to their tax return when they file. Others may prefer to update their payment method in advance through their IRS online account.
How To Prepare
If you do not have electronic payment already set up for your refund, taking action before you file taxes will help you avoid delays, ensure your refund goes to the correct account, and prevent potential issues once paper checks are no longer used.
We know this change may feel stressful, especially if you’re worried about missing your refund. Here are steps you can take now:
1. Open a bank account
If you don’t already have a bank account, now is the time to get one. You’ll need it in order to receive your refund through direct deposit. Here are a few resources to help you get started:
- Explore BankOn to find accounts that meet national standards for low fees and consumer protections.
- Learn more about affordable accounts through FDIC Get Banked.
- Find information about credit unions at MyCreditUnion.gov.
2. Choose how you want to update your payment method
There are two ways to make sure the IRS has your direct deposit information:
- Add your bank account when you file your next tax return. This may be the most straightforward option for many filers. If you choose this path, just make sure your bank account is ready and that you have the correct routing and account numbers when you file.
- Update your information now through your IRS online account. If you prefer not to wait until tax season or want to verify what the IRS has on file, you can log in to your IRS online account to check or update your direct deposit info. Need help getting started? Here’s a step-by-step video tutorial on how to create an IRS online account.