To Our Valued Clients:

We need to inform you there is a significant change in how the IRS will require you to receive refunds or remit tax payments for 2026 forward.

What’s Changing

The IRS has been directed to phase out paper checks and adopt electronic payments and deposits (i.e. electronic funds transfer, direct deposits, digital wallets, etc.), to the extent permitted by law. There is a grace period through 2025 but is expected to end at the start of 2026.

What You Should Do Now

To ensure a smooth transition and avoid delays or complications for 2026, we recommend the following steps:

1. Enroll in Electronic Payment Systems
1. Your best option is to set up an IRS Online Account using a secure ID.me login to manage payment and refund preferences. An ID.me account can also give you access to Social Security benefits, Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, some state services (currently including CA, NY, and PA), and various healthcare and financial institutions. Note that you’ll need a photo ID and access to a smartphone or computer with a front-facing camera for document capture or video chat to set up your ID.me account.
2. In the meantime, you can use IRS Direct Pay for individual payments directly from your bank account without having to set up an ID.me account.
3. Businesses or individuals who make estimated payments can also use EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System).

2. Provide or Verify Bank Account Information – When filing future tax returns, make sure you include a valid checking or savings account (routing and account number) for direct deposit or electronic refund.

3. In the future if electronic payments would present an undue hardship, be aware that limited exceptions or alternative methods may be permitted under the law.

If you have questions about how this change affects your specific situation, please let us know.