Learning Center

IRS Goes Digital: What the Transition to Paperless Refunds Means for You

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Treasury, is set to revolutionize the tax refund landscape by eliminating paper refund checks starting September 30, 2025. This strategic move complies with Executive Order 14247 and is designed to modernize refund processes significantly. While this initiative promises enhanced efficiency and security, it poses unique challenges for unbanked or underbanked individuals. Here, we break down the implications for taxpayers and identify viable alternatives for those without conventional banking access.

Image 3

The Driving Forces Behind This Change

The shift from paper to electronic refunds is driven by compelling benefits. Electronic refunds are over 16 times less likely to encounter loss, theft, or delays, providing a perceived and tangible layer of security for taxpayers. Moreover, electronic processing can complete transactions in under 21 days if e-filed without complications, significantly faster than traditional methods.

Additionally, this transition offers substantial cost-saving benefits by reducing the expenses of printing and mailing checks. During the 2025 tax season, a remarkable 93% of federal refunds were processed via direct deposit, demonstrating extensive acceptance and feasibility. This success was largely due to taxpayers sharing their banking details when filing returns.

Image 1

Challenges for Unbanked Taxpayers

Despite the considerable advantages, the transition presents significant hurdles for approximately 7% of taxpayers who still rely on paper checks. For these individuals, especially those without current banking services, urgent attention must be given to alternatives such as prepaid debit cards and digital wallets.

The American Bar Association (ABA) has raised alarms about the swift transition's timeline, stressing that unbanked individuals might face unforeseen obstacles. It advocates for enhanced access to fundamental banking services and public education about prepaid card risks, which can include high fees and limited consumer protection. Furthermore, the Tax Law Center has expressed that prepaid cards, although a solution, may not dovetail efficiently with annual refund structures.

Let’s Talk!
Get Expert Help Now
Book With Us

Image 2

Exploring Solutions and Alternatives

To mitigate these challenges, several strategies and initiatives can support those disconnected from conventional banking:

  1. Prepaid Debit Cards: These offer immediate use without needing a bank account, though taxpayers should beware of potential fees and processes for annual reissuance of refunds.

  2. Digital Wallets: Platforms like PayPal and mobile banking apps provide accessible, straightforward options for electronic payments, needing little initial set-up.

  3. BankOn Initiative: It offers low-cost banking services tailored to underserved communities, providing accounts with minimal fees and requirements.

  4. FDIC’s GetBanked Resources: The FDIC offers guidance for opening basic bank accounts, which is an excellent option for banking newcomers.

  5. International Considerations: Current policy limits direct deposits into foreign banks. Efforts continue to expand international ACH transfers, but using current U.S.-based accounts remains practical.

The IRS's digital transition is both innovative and challenging, especially for the unbanked community. Its success relies on ensuring all taxpayers are well-informed and have access to alternative financial services. By promoting effective solutions, taxpayers can fully leverage the benefits of electronic refunds, avoiding disruptions in their refund process.

Those already receiving electronic refunds will remain unaffected by this change. For further inquiries or assistance, please contact our office.

Let’s Talk!
Get Expert Help Now
Book With Us
Share this article...

Sign up for our newsletter.

Each month, we will send you a roundup of our latest blog content covering the tax and accounting tips & insights you need to know.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .

We care about the protection of your data.

Social Media

Taxx Guy LLC

129 Underhill Lane
Peekskill, New York 10566