economy

March 13, 2026

IRS paper check changes trigger tax refund delays for more than 830,000 filers

Many filers could see tax refund delays amid the IRS shift away from paper checks. Here's what to know if you receive a CP53E notice.

IRS paper check changes trigger tax refund delays for more than 830,000 filers

TL;DR

  • Over 830,000 IRS notices have been sent regarding refund delays due to paper payment requests.
  • Taxpayers receive a CP53E notice requesting updated banking information for direct deposit refunds.
  • Failure to provide banking details via an IRS online account within 30 days results in a paper refund after six weeks.
  • The IRS began phasing out paper refund checks in September, encouraging filers to prepare for the change.
  • This transition is mandated by an executive order signed in March 2025.
  • Approximately 94% of individual taxpayers opted for direct deposit during the 2025 filing season.
  • Reasons for receiving paper checks include being unbanked, living abroad, religious constraints, domestic abuse, or disabilities.
  • Taxpayers cannot resolve CP53E notices by calling the IRS; updates must be made through an IRS online account.
  • Even with power of attorney, tax firms cannot update banking information for clients.
  • Incorrect banking details will result in a paper check being issued.

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