Contributed by: KristineS, FreeTaxUSA Agent, Tax Pro
You may not have heard about the executive order signed on March 25, 2025, directing the Secretary of the Treasury to discontinue refunds by check and stop accepting the payment of taxes by check for all government agencies, including the IRS, as of September 30, 2025.
Going forward, this means the IRS will transition to using electronic funds transfer (EFT) methods such as direct deposit, prepaid card accounts, and other digital payment options.
There will be exceptions, however, for some individuals that don’t have access to banking services or electronic payment systems. Customers may still want to consider mailing in a payment with the appropriate date stamp on the envelope to have payment considered on-time.
What does this mean for FreeTaxUSA customers?
First, you can still prepare and file your tax return with FreeTaxUSA. That hasn’t changed. And federal tax returns remain 100% free to file.
Second, you can still receive your refund or pay your federal and/or state tax bill from multiple different options with FreeTaxUSA.
Receive your refund or pay your tax bill
The FreeTaxUSA software platform will still allow you to receive your refund in multiple different ways, including:
- Direct deposit to your bank account
- Using the Refund Transfer method for payment of our services then direct deposit to your bank account
- Or use of GO2BankTM (must qualify)
The FreeTaxUSA software platform will also maintain how you can pay your tax bill with the following methods:
- Using your IRS account online
- By credit or debit card payments (a servicing fee applies)
- Using Direct Pay via the IRS website
- Requesting an Installment Agreement with the IRS
We recognize for some of our customers who are accustomed to receiving a refund by check or printing a voucher to mail with a payment, this may be a challenging transition. Nevertheless, FreeTaxUSA remains committed to guiding our customers every step of the way and feel fully confident when filing their tax returns.