What’s changing for taxpayers this tax season

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The IRS is phasing out paper refund checks, a change that could affect how millions of taxpayers receive their money this tax season.

The move follows an executive order from President Donald Trump directing a shift toward electronic payments.

The IRS says the change is intended to reduce fraud, speed up refunds, and cut costs. But some experts say it could create challenges for certain taxpayers.

Michael Linden, a senior policy fellow at the Washington Center for Equitable Growth, said delays could happen if taxpayers do not provide direct deposit information when filing.

“If you submit your tax return without bank information that really could delay your refund. The IRS will come back to you and say, please submit bank information and if that doesn't happen, they will eventually issue a paper check. But it could take weeks,” Linden said.

Linden also said the IRS is operating with fewer staff after workforce reductions under the Trump administration, which could lead to longer wait times for taxpayers seeking assistance.

Another major change this tax season is the end of the IRS’s Direct File program, which previously allowed taxpayers to file returns directly with the agency for free.

“Direct file is no longer available. And that means millions of people who use that service last year for free to file their taxes for free directly online with the IRS is now defunct,” Linden said.

Last year, the program was introduced as a free filing option, and some taxpayers said it made the process easier and more direct.

“It was pretty quick and simple and, you know, it was going straight to the IRS and you didn't have to worry about a middleman, third person or other people who can get ahold of your information,” said Dana Lopez.

Lopez said the removal of the program has added uncertainty for taxpayers this year, even with other free filing options still available.

“I know there's still some free options out there, but, yeah, I think the direct file should be an option. We shouldn't have to pay to file taxes when we're already paying taxes,” Lopez said.

Taxpayers have until Wednesday, April 15, to file returns or request an extension.