Beginning September 30, 2025, the IRS and most federal agencies will no longer issue paper checks for federal payments. This change affects payments such as:
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IRS tax refunds
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Social Security benefits
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Veterans benefits
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Other federal payments
Why the Change?
Paper checks are over 16 times more likely to be lost, stolen, delayed, or altered. By moving to electronic payments, the government is:
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Making payments safer
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Ensuring faster access to funds
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Reducing fraud and delays
What This Means for You
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If you already receive payments electronically (direct deposit or debit card), no action is needed.
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If you still receive paper checks, you must switch to electronic payment before the September 30 deadline.
How to Enroll in Direct Deposit
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Call your paying agency – Contact the federal agency that issues your benefits and follow their instructions.
Find agency contact information here: godirect.gov/gpw/paying-agencies -
Go online – Visit godirect.gov and complete your enrollment.
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Call the Electronic Payment Solution Center – Dial 800-967-6857 (Mon–Fri, 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. ET).
If you do not have a bank account to receive direct deposit, you can safely access resources to open an account at:
Direct Express® Debit Mastercard® Option
You can also sign up for a Treasury-sponsored Direct Express® Debit Mastercard® to receive monthly benefits electronically. To enroll:
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Call the Electronic Payment Solution Center at 800-967-6857, or
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Contact your paying agency directly.
Be cautious: Beware of fake phone calls, emails, or texts pretending to be the IRS or another government agency. Always use official websites or phone numbers you trust.
