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

First step of broader transition to electronic payments

The IRS yesterday announced that paper tax refund checks for individual taxpayers will be phased out beginning on September 30, 2025, as required by Executive Order 14247 (to the extent permitted by law), and that this marks the first step of the broader transition to electronic payments.

According to the IRS release—IR-2025-94 (September 23, 2025):

The IRS will publish detailed guidance for 2025 tax returns before the 2026 filing season begins, but until further notice, taxpayers may continue using existing forms and procedures, including those filing their 2024 returns on extension of a due date prior to December 31, 2025.
The change is designed to protect taxpayers, speed up refunds, and cut costs.
Most refunds will be delivered by direct deposit or other secure electronic method, but options such as prepaid debit cards, digital wallets, or limited exceptions will be available.
Executive Order 14247 also applies to payments made to the IRS, but taxpayers may continue to use existing payment options until further notice.

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

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