If you’re accustomed to receiving your tax refund by mail, it’s time to plan ahead. The IRS began phasing out paper refund checks for individual taxpayers on September 30, 2025, with limited exceptions.
Direct deposit helps avoid lost or stolen checks and mailing delays. If you already receive your refund electronically, the main step is to confirm that your account information is correct.
Before You File
Check these details with your bank or credit union:
- Routing number
- Account number
- Account type: checking or savings
Use an eligible account in your name, your spouse’s name, or both names. If you changed banks or closed an account, let your tax preparer know before filing.
What If You Don’t Have a Bank Account?
Certain prepaid debit cards and mobile payment apps can accept tax refunds. Confirm that the service accepts IRS direct deposits and provides the necessary routing and account numbers. Check any fees or deposit limits.
If you want to open a bank account, the FDIC’s GetBanked website provides resources to help you explore your options.
What If Direct Deposit Is Missing or Rejected?
The IRS can still process your return, but your refund may be delayed. You may receive a CP53E notice by mail asking you to provide or correct your banking information, or request an exception.
Follow the notice’s instructions and respond within 30 days. Paper checks remain available in certain circumstances.
How Soon Will Your Refund Arrive?
The IRS issues most refunds within 21 days for electronically filed returns, although some take longer. Returns filed by mail generally take six weeks or more to process.
Those timeframes depend on how your return is filed and whether it needs additional review-not simply whether you choose direct deposit.
Track your refund through the IRS’s Where’s My Refund? tool.
What About Paying Taxes?
The IRS currently still accepts checks and money orders. Electronic options can provide convenient payment scheduling and a confirmation for your records. Review available methods on the IRS payment page.
Have questions about your refund or an IRS notice? Contact Lisa at (954) 755-7302 to discuss your situation.