CLIENT ALERT – UPDATE TO ELECTRONIC METHODS FOR TAX REFUNDS AND PAYMENTS
January 13, 2026
During 2025, Executive Order 14247 was issued requiring all federal payments – including tax refunds and payments – be made via electronic funds transfer. The directive is a part of the initiative to modernize government payments systems and reduce reliance on paper checks.
- Refunds go digital: Beginning Sept. 30, 2025, the federal government stopped issuing paper checks for tax refunds and other federal payments. Most refunds will be delivered by direct deposit or other secure electronic methods moving forward. Please be sure to review and update your bank account information we have on file when we send the 2025 Tax Organizer in a few short weeks.
- Payments: The Treasury has not yet announced a similar date for accepting payments made by check; however, it is advised that as soon as feasible, all payment made to the government (which includes estimated tax payments due January 15, 2026) should be processed electronically. We strongly encourage using one of the electronic payment options highlighted below for any future tax payments. (Please Note: You can continue to use your existing payment options until the Treasury issues further notice if you are unable to access these options provided.)
- Electronic payment options include:
- Direct Pay: For individuals making a payment directly from their bank account
- Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS): For businesses and individuals, including scheduling future payments
- IRS Online Account: View balances and make payments
- Debit or credit card: Available through IRS-approved payment processors (note: fees may apply)
- ACH transfers or wire transfers: For certain high-dollar transactions
- Electronic payment options include:
To learn more about the available payment options, you can visit the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/payments or contact your MSWS team member to discuss how these changes may affect you.
