Getting Ready for the Federal E-Payments Mandate (Effective September 30, 2025)
For Individuals
Switch benefit payments (Social Security, VA, Railroad Retirement) to direct deposit or Direct Express® card.
Double-check your bank routing and account number.
If you don’t have a bank account, enroll in the Direct Express® debit card program.
File 2025 tax returns with electronic refund info (no more paper checks).
Set up an online IRS account to use IRS Direct Pay for balances due.
For Small Businesses / Nonprofits
Confirm banking info in SAM.gov and agency vendor portals.
Expect federal contracts, grants, or reimbursements to be paid by ACH only.
Register for EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System) for payroll and business taxes.
Update internal bookkeeping/payroll systems to align with ACH reporting.
For Trustees, Executors & Fiduciaries
Make sure fiduciary accounts are ready to receive refunds electronically.
Coordinate with tax preparers to use direct deposit for Form 1041 refunds.
Document account changes for guardianship/conservatorship reports.
Inform beneficiaries that paper refunds and checks will no longer be available after Sept 30, 2025.
General Notes
Paper checks end September 30, 2025 (with very limited waivers).
Keep your email/phone updated with agencies for electronic notices.
Beware of scams — only update banking details through official portals (SSA.gov, VA.gov, IRS.gov, SAM.gov).
