Federal Government’s Transition Away from Paper Checks

Background

A client recently alerted us to an article highlighting a significant upcoming change: the government’s transition away from paper checks beginning in the fall of 2025. This client asked for our opinion on the article’s accuracy and guidance on how this change might affect them. We have since received additional inquiries regarding this important development.

As a result of these inquiries, we investigated this topic further and below is a summary of the Executive Order mandating this change in policy and an explanation of the possible effects.

The Executive Order

On March 25, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order mandating the elimination of paper checks across the U.S. government by Sept. 30, 2025. The goal of this order is to modernize payment systems, reduce fraud and lost checks, and lower costs for taxpayers. 

The order includes two key deadlines leading up to the Sept. 30 implementation date: 

• June 23, 2025: Agencies were required to submit compliance reports to the Office of Management and Budget, outlining their strategies for eliminating paper payments. 
• Sept. 21, 2025: The Secretary of the Treasury must submit an implementation progress report to the President. 

Exceptions to the Rule

The Executive Order does allow for exceptions in certain circumstances. Section 4 outlines broad categories of individuals and situations that qualify for alternative payment methods, including: 

• Individuals without access to electronic banking services 
• Emergency payments where electronic transfers are impractical 
• Security or law enforcement concerns 
• Other cases as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury 

For those who qualify, secondary payment methods will be made available. 

What This Means for You

For many, this shift represents a long-overdue step toward modernization. However, for others, it raises concerns about how they’ll manage payments and receive funds. This change doesn’t just impact IRS tax payments and refunds—it also affects agencies like the Social Security Administration (SSA). 

The SSA has already announced its compliance with the order. Beneficiaries who don’t sign up for direct deposit will receive their payments via a Direct Express debit card. For individuals already using electronic banking, the transition is unlikely to cause significant changes. 

Lingering Questions

As of now, there are still many unknowns. With the September deadlines approaching, agencies have yet to announce detailed implementation plans. Questions remain about the number of electronic payment options that will be available and how accessible they’ll be. 

Additionally, the shift to electronic payments raises concerns about cybersecurity and data privacy. These issues have historically deterred some individuals from adopting electronic payment methods, and the lack of clear reassurances may heighten anxieties as the transition becomes mandatory. 

Your Payment Options 

For those looking to pay IRS tax liabilities electronically, several options are already available: 

• Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)
• Credit or Debit Card Payments
• Digital Wallets 

The IRS website, www.irs.gov/payments, provides a comprehensive list of payment methods and account types, including individual online accounts, business tax accounts, and the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS). 

Final Thoughts

As the government moves toward a paperless payment system, it’s important to stay informed and prepared. If you have questions or concerns about how this change might