Say goodbye to the one piece of government mail we actually like getting.
The IRS is officially ending the use of paper checks for tax refunds this week. It’s the first step of an executive order signed in March by President Trump to broadly transition the department to exclusive use of electronic payments.
The change applies to all taxpayers but will only impact a minority. According to a Sept. 23 news release from the IRS, 93% of individuals already receive their tax refunds via direct deposit.
The IRS cited speed, costs, and decreased risk of theft as key factors for the switch. The announcement from the IRS stated that paper checks are 16 times more likely to be “lost, stolen, altered, or delayed.” It also noted that the electronic refunds are usually delivered to taxpayers within 21 days, versus the six weeks or longer that it takes to receive a check by mail. It should also be cheaper.
The IRS recommends unbanked taxpayers explore options such as prepaid debit cards and digital wallets in advance of filing season, noting that those without access to digital payment platforms “may be eligible for Treasury-sponsored alternatives that ensure reliable electronic delivery.” As of right now, 2026 taxes should continue to be filed using existing forms and processes.
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