IRS Moves to Digital Refunds: Implications and Solutions

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), alongside the U.S. Department of Treasury, is poised to redefine the refund process with a strategic shift towards digital refunds, commencing gradual elimination of paper tax refund checks by September 30, 2025, as per Executive Order 14247. This move is central to modernizing tax systems, enhancing efficiency, and bolstering security. However, it ushers in a slew of challenges, particularly for unbanked or underbanked individuals. Here, we examine the implications for taxpayers and explore accessible alternatives for those lacking traditional banking services.

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Rationale Behind the Shift

Electronic refunds offer multiple benefits over paper checks. Statistically, electronic payments are over 16 times less prone to loss, theft, or delays, providing a safer and faster refund option compared to paper checks, which can take weeks. With fewer resources needed for processing, electronic refunds can happen in under 21 days if returns are electronically filed without issues.

The cost advantages extend further, minimizing expenses related to check printing and mailing, thus enabling more efficient Treasury resource allocation. In 2025, an impressive 93% of federal tax refunds were processed via direct deposit, reflecting the feasibility and broad acceptance of going digital, thanks to taxpayers supplying bank details with their returns.

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Obstacles for Unbanked Individuals

This transition raises specific obstacles for about 7% of recipients who rely on paper checks. Such individuals often lack bank services, necessitating consideration of alternatives like prepaid debit cards and digital wallets.

The American Bar Association (ABA) cautions about the accelerated transition, emphasizing potential issues for the un- and underbanked. They recommend expanding access to basic banking services and public education on prepaid card risks, such as higher fees and limited consumer protections.

The Tax Law Center also warns that prepaid cards, while a solution, may not suit the annual nature of tax refunds, unlike regularly paid benefits. Ensuring cost efficiency is vital to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Addressing the Challenges

To bridge the gap for unbanked individuals, several solutions are proposed:

  1. Prepaid Debit Cards: Provide an immediate alternative without needing a traditional bank account. Taxpayers should monitor fees and the annual card reissuance process.

  2. Digital Wallets: Platforms like PayPal and mobile banking apps offer convenient electronic payment options with minimal setup requirements, serving as a bank account substitute.

  3. BankOn Initiative: This program promotes affordable banking services for underserved groups, encouraging exploration of BankOn-certified accounts featuring low fees and no balance-minimums.

  4. FDIC's GetBanked Resources: Taxpayers can access guidance on opening beginner-friendly bank accounts through the FDIC’s GetBanked website, with many banks offering low-fee, accessible options.

  5. International Circumstances: Current policies restrict foreign direct deposits. While international ACH allowances are advocated, utilizing existing U.S. accounts is presently recommended.

The IRS’s shift to paperless refunds is both forward-thinking and logistically challenging, especially for unbanked groups. Its success depends on equipping taxpayers with awareness and alternatives for electronic funds. By engaging with these solutions, taxpayers can navigate refund processes with more agility and benefit from streamlined electronic payments.

This change will not impact taxpayers already receiving digital refunds. Contact our office with any queries.

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