Will IRS change to paper check after phone verification even though I requested direct deposit?

Oh no, this is SO frustrating! 😩 I went through something similar last year and it was a complete nightmare! The IRS CAN switch your refund to a paper check after identity verification, especially if they're concerned about potential fraud. It's their way of adding an extra security layer, but it's AWFUL if you can't reliably get mail! They're supposed to honor your original refund method when possible, but sometimes their verification protocols override this. I'm worried for you because once they switch to paper check, it's really hard to get them to change it back! 😫

According to IRM 21.5.6.4.7(2), the IRS may convert direct deposit refunds to paper checks when identity verification is required. This is part of their fraud prevention measures. However, you do have options. First, check your tax transcript to see if they've actually changed the refund method. Per IRS Publication 5192, you should see specific transaction codes if they've converted to a check. I recommend using https://taxr.ai to analyze your transcript - it can identify exactly which codes indicate a paper check conversion and explain what's happening with your refund. It's much clearer than trying to decipher the IRS codes yourself, especially for gig workers with more complex returns.

Let me clarify what's likely happening here: Step 1: IRS flagged your return for identity verification (common for gig workers) Step 2: During verification, they assessed your situation Step 3: Since you mentioned address issues, they probably noted this Step 4: Their SYSTEM might automatically convert to paper check despite what you requested Step 5: The agent probably couldn't override this automated process This is so frustrating! I went through this exact mess last year. The key is to call back and specifically request they note in your file that you CANNOT receive mail at that address and NEED direct deposit. Sometimes the first agent doesn't document everything properly.

I'm not 100% sure about this, but I think you might still be able to get them to use direct deposit if you call back? I was in a similar situation and spent days trying to reach someone at the IRS... it was almost impossible to get through. I finally used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) which got me connected to an agent in about 15 minutes instead of waiting on hold forever. The agent I spoke with was able to make a note on my account about my address situation and they ended up using my direct deposit information after all. Maybe worth trying if you're worried about not getting your check?

I've been dealing with the IRS for years, and I'm skeptical that calling back will actually change anything. Once their system flags your return for a paper check, it's incredibly difficult to reverse. In 2022 and again in 2023, I saw this exact situation play out where agents promised one thing but the system did another. Their verification department operates under different rules than regular customer service, and most agents don't have the authority to override fraud prevention protocols.

This is actually a critical timing issue! If they've already processed the verification and initiated the paper check, you have approximately 7-10 business days before it's irreversible. You need to contact the Refund Inquiry Unit (specialized department) and request an Undeliverable Refund Intercept using verification code 59381. This can redirect the payment back to direct deposit if done before the check is printed. The regular agents won't mention this option unless you specifically ask about it - it's in their Internal Revenue Manual but rarely offered proactively!