Use direct deposit: The IRS is phasing out paper tax refund checks, under the executive order Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account. The IRS encourages taxpayers who do not have a bank account to open one so they can receive refunds by direct deposit.
Per IRS Tax Tip 2026-03, Jan. 14, 2026, titled “Next steps to Get Ready for 2026 tax filing season”.