Electronic IRS Payments Coming Soon—What Farmers and Taxpayers Need to Know

RFD-TV Farm Legal and Taxation expert Roger McEowen joined us Friday to break down the executive order and what it means for farmers and ranchers.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — The IRS is moving away from paper checks as part of a federal push toward fully electronic disbursements. A new executive order directs federal agencies, including the Treasury Department, to stop issuing paper checks—a change that will affect a wide range of government payments to individuals and businesses.

RFD-TV Farm Legal and Taxation expert Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law joined RFD-TV News on Friday to break down the executive order and what it means for taxpayers.

In his interview, McEowen explained that the order includes a September 30 deadline for agencies to comply with the transition. While most taxpayers already use direct deposit, those who still receive paper checks will need to prepare for the shift. He also discussed possible exceptions, noting that some situations—such as certain hardship cases or individuals without access to banking—may still qualify for alternative payment options.

Taxpayers are encouraged to verify their direct-deposit information with the IRS and other federal agencies to avoid delays once paper checks are phased out.

FIRM TO FARM: IRS Moves Toward Electronic Disbursements (and Payments)

Related Stories
The new rule removes prevented-plant buy-up coverage, prompting strong objections from farm groups concerned about added risk exposure.
Joe Peiffer with Ag & Business Legal Strategies advises farmers on end-of-year financial planning, including preparing records, avoiding common credit mistakes, and evaluating equipment purchases for 2026.
Eastern Region VP Joey Nowotny of Delaware joins us on FFA Today to talk about his new leadership role and an exciting year ahead for the National FFA Organization.
USTR Jamieson Greer signals a narrower trade deal with China, adding more market uncertainty. The Farm Bureau also supports reviewing China’s missed trade commitments under the Phase One.
RFD-TV Farm Legal and Tax Expert Roger McEowen explains the basics of Low-Risk Credit in Farming, and how an understanding of the farm credit landscape lets producers tactfully approach debt.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal analysis on key cases shaping the agricultural landscape heading into the year ahead.
NASDA declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. President Amanda Beal joins us to share NASDA’s new hub, which highlights the impact of women in agriculture worldwide.
Matt Brockman, communications director for the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, joined us to share a preview of the upcoming event.
RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses the latest developments in the Supreme Court, trade tariffs, and the future of the USMCA under President Donald Trump.
The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 agenda centers on labor stability, biosecurity, and economic resilience for family farms. Expanded DMC coverage improves risk protection for dairy operations facing tighter margins.