Required Electronic IRS Payments: What Developments Are Happening—and How to Get Ready
Why the IRS Is Moving to Electronic Payments
The IRS is moving toward electronic tax payments to make filing and paying taxes faster, more secure, and easier to manage. Beginning September 30, 2025, paper refund checks for individuals will gradually be phased out.
While traditional payment methods like EFTPS, IRS Direct Pay, or paper checks are still available, switching to electronic payments now ensures your payments are processed more quickly and safely. Learning how to pay taxes online today can save you time and prevent delays when paper checks are no longer accepted.
Setting up IRS direct deposit refunds also ensures that your money reaches you quickly and securely. For official information, see the IRS news release and Executive Order 14247.
What’s Changing—and When
1. Refunds Go Digital First (September 30, 2025)
Most paper refund checks will be replaced by direct deposit or other secure electronic payment methods. Only a few exceptions will remain, and the IRS will provide guidance for 2025 tax returns ahead of the 2026 filing season.
2. Incoming Payments Transition Later
The Executive Order issued on March 25, 2025, directs federal agencies, including the IRS, to transition all payments and collections to electronic methods whenever legally possible. While current payment options are still available for now, it’s wise to start preparing for a fully digital system.
How to Pay the IRS Electronically
Here are the main IRS electronic payments options:
1. EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System)
Ideal for businesses, trusts, estates, and frequent taxpayers. You can schedule and track payments easily. Enrollment takes a few days, so plan ahead.
2. IRS Direct Pay
A fast, free option for individuals. Pay directly from your checking or savings account without creating an account or logging in.
3. Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW)
Authorize a direct debit from your bank account when e-filing your tax return or extension.
4. Other Options
The IRS also accepts certain credit or debit cards and approved digital wallets. Processing fees may apply, but these methods provide additional convenience for paying taxes online.
Paper Checks Are Still an Option… For Now
Although paper checks remain valid for now, they won’t be around forever. Switching to electronic methods today will save time and prevent potential issues later. You can see all payment options on the IRS payment page.
Accessibility and Exceptions
Not everyone has a bank account. Limited alternatives, such as prepaid debit cards or digital wallets, are available. Programs like the FDIC’s GetBanked can help find low- or no-cost banking solutions. The Taxpayer Advocate Service also works to protect taxpayers who may face challenges during this transition.
Action Steps: Prepare Now
- Businesses, trusts, estates, and frequent payers: set up EFTPS.
- Individuals: use IRS Direct Pay for one-time payments.
- Add direct deposit information to your tax return for faster refunds.
- Check and update your bank information today—don’t wait until tax season.
- Watch for IRS guidance on mandatory electronic payments.
Stay Safe: Avoid Phishing Scams : Electronic payments are secure, but scams exist. The IRS will never email or text asking for payment information. Report suspicious messages to phishing@irs.gov and see how to report tax scams.
