Tax Payment Resource Center

Receive a Payment from the IRS or State Department of Revenue

Starting September 30, 2025, paper checks from the IRS, Social Security Administration (SSA) and other federal agencies will become a thing of the past. The move toward a fully electronic system aims to cut costs, minimize fraud and streamline payment delivery — but it will require action from some taxpayers.

Practical Impacts for Taxpayers

Whether you've always received paper checks or simply prefer them for privacy or flexibility, here are three ways the new policy will affect you:

1. ‍Direct deposit required. All federal payments, including tax refunds, will require a U.S.-based bank or credit union account. You'll no longer have the option to receive paper checks by mail.
2. Faster refunds. With electronic transfers, taxpayers can expect to receive funds more quickly. The wait for mailed checks — including postal delays — is expected to be eliminated.
3. Improved security. The risk of mail theft or lost checks will disappear. Electronic systems offer more protection against fraud and identity theft.

To prepare to receive electronic payments (refunds, credits, etc.), you’ll need to have an active online account both with the IRS and — for Illinois residents — with the Illinois Department of Revenue’s MyTax portal. Below is a quick how-to guide.

How to set up your IRS Online Account

1. Visit the IRS “Online Account for Individuals” page.
2. Click “Create or View Your Account.”
3. You’ll be asked to verify your identity (SSN, date of birth, financial account, etc.).
4. Once verified, you can view your tax records, make payments, track refunds, and update your bank account info.
5. To receive a refund or other federal payment electronically, make sure your bank account is linked (i.e. direct deposit).

For more details, see the IRS help page on creating your account.

How to set up your Illinois MyTax account

1. Go to the Illinois Department of Revenue website, and navigate to the Individuals section.
2. Click “Register with MyTax Illinois.”
3. Follow through the registration process, which typically requires verifying identity, setting up a username and password, and linking your Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer ID).
4. Once your account is active, you can view your IL returns, make payments, set up direct deposit for refunds/credits, etc.
5. You may need to provide bank account information in MyTax to receive payments electronically.

By having both accounts in place, you ensure you can receive state and federal payments (refunds, credits) by direct deposit — which is required under the new IRS policy beginning September 30, 2025.

Please Note: It is the responsibility of the client to verify the accuracy of their payments

As a reminder:

• Always confirm your bank routing and account numbers carefully before submitting them.
• Be on guard for phishing emails or communications that claim to be from the IRS or state tax agency and ask for banking info. Only enter your information through the official IRS or state portal.
• If you change banks, make sure to update your banking information in your IRS and MyTax accounts before your next payment or return filing.
• Porte Brown is available to assist with technical guidance, but the ultimate responsibility for payment accuracy and timely submission rests with the taxpayer.