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).