What happens if I request a paper check for my federal refund?
Starting in 2026, if you request a paper check, the IRS will mail you Notice CP53E asking for your bank account information for direct deposit. The notice will also state that your refund will be held for 6 weeks.
You'll need to reply to the IRS within 30 days of the date on the notice. You can either:
Once the IRS gets your answer, they'll send your refund the way you asked (direct deposit or a paper check in the mail).
If you don't want to wait 6 weeks or more for a paper check refund, we recommend you choose another option to get your refund much quicker.
You'll need to reply to the IRS within 30 days of the date on the notice. You can either:
- Give the IRS your bank routing number and account number for direct deposit OR
- Tell the IRS a valid reason why you need a paper check
Once the IRS gets your answer, they'll send your refund the way you asked (direct deposit or a paper check in the mail).
If you don't want to wait 6 weeks or more for a paper check refund, we recommend you choose another option to get your refund much quicker.
