Important IRS Change

Starting September 30, 2025, the IRS will no longer issue paper refund checks for most individual taxpayers. That means millions of filers — including immigrants using an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) — will receive refunds only by direct deposit or through prepaid debit cards.

This change aims to make refunds faster and more secure, but it also creates a challenge for taxpayers who don't yet have a U.S. bank account or rely on check cashing services.

Why this matters for immigrants

Many immigrants and ITIN filers in Harrisonburg still prefer paper checks. However, after September 2025, that option will end. To avoid losing or delaying your refund:

• Open a U.S. checking account in your name or your business's name
• Update your direct deposit information when filing your tax return
• Make sure your ITIN is active and renewed before tax season

What you can do now

If you don't have a bank account, consider community banks or credit unions that welcome ITIN filers. The IRS also recommends secure deposit options such as reloadable debit cards linked to your tax account.

Official Source

Visit the IRS newsroom: irs.gov/newsroom/irs-to-phase-out-paper-tax-refund-checks