02/20/2026
Used to getting a refund check from the IRS? You might want to go a different route this year.
The federal government is phasing out check payments. They want everything done electronically.
Guidance is fluctuating hard and fast on this. If you got a letter from me early in January describing the new policy, read on, because the plan has already changed.
For now, you can still get an old-school paper check, if you're willing to wait for it. If you don't provide a bank account on your tax return, or if your bank doesn't recognize the number you gave as yours, you'll get a letter - a CP53E notice - in the mail.
You respond by logging into your online IRS account, and either indicating the correct numbers or providing a reason why you can't. If the IRS doesn't hear back from you in 6 weeks, they'll issue a check.
If you don't have a bank account, there is a workaround. Get yourself a debit card that has a routing number and account number associated with it (not to be confused with the card number). And don't lose the card.
Down the road? Who knows?
The upshot: for this year at least, provide your bank account's routing number and account number to your tax advisor or tax software, or, as they say, expect delays.
Oh - if you owe the IRS, you can still pay by check. They'll be happy to take your money.
