As of October 1, 2025, the IRS and all federal agencies generally no longer accept or issue paper checks, with limited exceptions available for those who cannot use electronic payments. This change is mandated by a presidential executive order to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance security.
The change is designed to
- Protect taxpayers: Paper checks are over 16 times more likely to be lost, stolen, altered, or delayed than electronic payments. Direct deposit also avoids the possibility that a refund check could be returned to the IRS as undeliverable.
- Speed up refunds: Electronic refunds give taxpayers faster access to refunds, with payments issued in less than 21 days if filing electronically, choosing direct deposit and there are no issues with the return, whereas nonelectronic payments may take 6 weeks or longer for refunds sent by mail.
- Cut costs: Electronic payments are more efficient and cost less than paper
The link below will take you to the page on the IRS website to create your online account.