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
University of Arkansas’ Allen Szalanski discusses a news study on rice stink bugs, what it could mean for farmers, and pest management strategies for the future.
Nutrition policy shifts may influence retail demand across agriculture.
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum explains the role farm safety net programs play in supporting farm finances as growers head into the 2026 planting season.
Corn demand is rising thanks to ethanol expansion, yet year-round E15 remains missing from the Farm Bill—leaving farmers questioning the policy gap.
Bipartisan momentum builds, but final farm policy remains unsettled.
Real Ag’s Shaun Haney explains how farmers are approaching risk management and the steps they’re taking to strengthen profitability through better financial planning.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Hurd joined this week’s Champions of Rural America to review the proposed Farm Bill moving through the House and discuss its potential impact on rural communities and farmers across the country.
Global food prices rose slightly in the latest FAO Food Price Index as vegetable oils, cereals, and meat increased, offsetting declines in dairy and sugar.
Mexican livestock officials are emphasizing surveillance and inspection systems to preserve access to the U.S. cattle export market. Texas’ Bovina Feeders explains the rising stakes as the border stays closed.
Weak crop margins and tariff uncertainty are delaying machinery purchases and signaling slower capital investment across U.S. agriculture.
Wed, 3/18/26 – 7:30 PM ET – Build better financial habits with tips from AARP
Valley Irrigation’s Darren Siekman explains the advantages of their new pivots for growers managing acreages of up to 60 acres.