Act Now: Electronic IRS Payments and Refunds Are Faster, Safer, and Soon Compulsory

Sep 25, 2025 | Tax Planning

When it comes to filing your taxes, electronic is faster, safer, and—very soon—the norm. Under a federal modernization directive, the government is phasing out most paper checks for federal disbursements effective September 30, 2025. That means whether you’re sending a payment or receiving a refund, electronic options aren’t just convenient anymore—they’ll be the default.

Important for 2024 Extended Filers: Act Now

If your 2024 return is on extension, please provide your direct-deposit information to your tax preparer before we e-file your return if you expect a refund. Returns filed without bank information will be processed using whatever disbursement methods are available at the time the refund is issued—and after Sept. 30, 2025, that means electronic delivery. Giving your routing and account numbers when your return is prepared avoids extra steps and potential delays.

Why Go Electronic?

  • Faster refunds. Direct deposit gets money into your account weeks sooner than waiting for a mailed check.
  • More secure. Electronic delivery removes the risk of a lost, stolen, or misdelivered paper check.
  • Clearer tracking. Electronic payments and refunds generate confirmations and timestamps so you know exactly when transactions were made.

Your Options for Sending Payments

Choose the method that fits your situation:

  • IRS Direct Pay — pay directly from your bank account (no fee), great for one-time personal payments.
  • EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System) — best for businesses and recurring payments (enrollment required).
  • Card or digital-wallet payments — useful for flexibility (Note: third-party processors may charge a fee.)

Questions or ready to provide your direct-deposit info?

We’re here to help make this easy and secure. To share routing and account information with your accountant, please either include this information in your annual Tax Organizer, or call our office at 614-891-5423 to request a secure link. Providing direct-deposit details now is a small step that keeps your refund fast, secure and #LessTaxing.