Missouri’s Last Tax Season for Paper Checks from the IRS

Washington, D.C. (KFMO) - As the 2025 tax season kicks off, Missouri taxpayers are preparing for a major change in how they will receive their refunds from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This year marks the final season in which the IRS will issue paper checks to Missouri residents, as the agency transitions to electronic payments starting next year.

For many years, paper checks have been the traditional way for taxpayers to receive their refunds. However, the IRS is moving to fully digital payment methods, including direct deposit and debit cards, in an effort to modernize the tax process and reduce the risk of fraud. The move is designed to provide faster, more secure transactions for taxpayers while reducing the costs associated with printing and mailing checks.

“We understand that many Missourians have relied on paper checks in the past, but this change will bring significant benefits for taxpayers and the government,” said IRS spokesperson Tim Stevens. “By eliminating paper checks, we are able to reduce fraud risks, increase efficiency, and ensure that taxpayers receive their refunds much faster.”

Starting in 2026, all Missouri tax refunds will be issued electronically. The IRS encourages taxpayers to set up direct deposit before filing their 2025 taxes to avoid delays. Those who have not already established direct deposit will need to do so before receiving their refund.

While many taxpayers across the state have already switched to electronic payments, the IRS anticipates that this final year of paper checks will affect thousands of Missouri residents. The agency has urged Missourians to act quickly to ensure their refunds are processed electronically moving forward.

For those unfamiliar with the process, the IRS has provided a variety of resources to help taxpayers set up direct deposit. According to IRS officials, taxpayers who choose direct deposit can expect to receive their refunds in a matter of days, rather than weeks, as is often the case with paper checks.

“The sooner taxpayers transition to direct deposit, the faster they will receive their refunds,” Stevens said. “This change will ultimately benefit Missouri families by putting money into their accounts more quickly, without the wait for a check to arrive in the mail.”

The IRS is offering multiple resources on its website, including step-by-step instructions on how to set up direct deposit. Missouri residents can visit www.irs.gov for more information or to learn more about the transition to electronic payments.

This change is part of the IRS’s broader initiative to modernize the tax system and improve efficiency for all taxpayers. As the last paper checks are issued this season, Missouri taxpayers are encouraged to embrace the future of tax refunds, with quicker, safer, and more reliable electronic payments.