Changes are coming regarding check payments to and from the Internal Revenue Service.
In accordance with a recent Executive Order, the IRS has announced that it will stop issuing most paper check refunds for individual taxpayers starting January 1, 2026. Going forward, tax refunds will be issued primarily through electronic payment methods such as direct deposit or prepaid debit cards. Limited exceptions will be available for individuals without access to banking services or where electronic payments would cause undue hardship. The transition process includes extensive outreach to taxpayers. If a taxpayer does not provide banking information, the IRS will send a letter requesting it. If it is still not provided, they may hold refunds for an extended period before processing them. The IRS is developing special procedures for certain groups, such as international taxpayers, and will provide additional guidance as the transition progresses.
The IRS is also moving to discontinue acceptance of paper checks for tax payments, including quarterly estimated payments. Generally speaking, all tax payments will be required to be made electronically, using methods shown below. For clients that receive their tax return through SafeSend the link to pay is available when you access your return.
IRS Direct Pay
- Pay directly from a checking or savings account at no cost
- Go to the IRS Direct Pay website at https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay-with-bank-account, select the payment type (e.g., estimated tax), enter your information, select the payment date, and authorize the transfer
- You receive instant confirmation of your payment
Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)
- Free service for individuals and businesses to pay federal taxes online or by phone
- Enroll at www.eftps.gov, receive a PIN by mail, log in, select the payment type, enter payment details, and schedule the payment
- You receive instant confirmation of your payment
Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW)
- Available when e-filing a tax return or extension using tax software or a tax professional
- Authorize a direct debit from your bank account for the amount owed
- Can also be used to schedule up to four estimated payments for the next tax year at the time of filing
Debit Card, Credit Card, or Digital Wallet
- Pay online, by phone, or by mobile device using an approved payment processor
- A convenience fee is charged by the service provider.
IRS2Go Mobile App
- The IRS2Go app provides access to IRS Direct Pay and allows users to make payments, check refund status, and obtain other information
- Available on major app stores
Additional guidance is still pending and it is unclear to what extent the service will hold or reject payments. However, one can expect that the service will completely discontinue working with paper checks in the near future.