The IRS Online Accounts: What You Should Set Up Now
- Melissa
- Apr 8
- 3 min read
Hi Friends,
The IRS has been moving more of its systems online over the past few years, and a lot of that shift picked up following a recent Executive Order in September 2025 focused on moving more government processes into digital systems.
We’ve been assisting clients who need help getting their IRS accounts set up, but we’re recommending this more strongly to all our clients based on what we’re seeing from the IRS. When accounts aren’t set up and banking information isn’t in place for refunds, and clients are getting love letters it’s leading to more follow-up from the IRS. It’s not complicated once it’s set up, but it is becoming one of those things that’s easier to take care of ahead of time than deal with after the fact.
How IRS Online Accounts Work with Filing, Payments, and Refunds
The Internal Revenue Service has expanded its online systems in a way that ties a few things together that used to feel separate.
When you file your return electronically, everything is already being processed digitally on their end. If your account is set up, you can log in, confirm what was received, and track what happens next.
This becomes especially helpful when it comes to payments and refunds. Electronic filing paired with direct deposit or electronic payment is generally faster to process, easier to confirm, and easier to track if something needs follow-up.
We’re seeing that when everything is connected, filing, payment, and account access, there are fewer questions and fewer surprises after the return is submitted.
Why Digital Filing, Payments, and Account Access Are Becoming the Standard
More of the process is clearly moving in this direction, especially when it comes to refunds and payments.
We’re seeing a stronger push toward direct deposit, and when banking information isn’t provided, that’s when the follow-up tends to happen. When everything is set up correctly, filing, payments, refunds, and account access, things move more cleanly and are much easier to track.
It doesn’t mean everything has to be done digitally, but it does mean the process works better when it is.
What to Set Up Now (and What to Have Ready)
If you haven’t set this up yet, it’s worth doing before you actually need it. We’ve had several clients come in to get help with this because parts of the identity verification process can be a little tricky, especially if you’re not used to that kind of setup. Once it’s done, it’s done, and you don’t need to think about it again unless something comes up.
To create your account, you can go directly here: Create your IRS Online Account
What you’ll want to have ready:
A valid photo ID
Access to your phone or email for verification
Basic personal information (address, Social Security number)
Your bank account information (for payments or direct deposit)
A secure place to store your login information
We’re bringing this up now because we’re seeing it more often for our clients here in Sonoma County, especially those going through changes like moving or job transitions, this is becoming a more standard part of the process.
If this feels like something you don’t want to deal with or you run into issues along the way, we’re happy to help. We’ve already walked several clients through it, and sometimes it’s just easier to sit down and get it done together. You can reach out through our Contact Page or if you’re local, you’re always welcome to come into our Sebastopol office and we can go through it with you.
Frequently Asked Questions About IRS Online Accounts, Filing, and Payments
Do I need to file electronically?In most cases, yes. Electronic filing is faster, more accurate, and allows the IRS to process your return more efficiently.
Why is direct deposit recommended for refunds?Direct deposit is typically the fastest way to receive your refund and reduces delays.
Can I make payments online?Yes. Payments can be made electronically and are easier to track and confirm.
Do I need to link my bank account?Providing your bank information helps ensure payments and refunds are processed smoothly and the IRS prefers it.
Do I need to check my IRS account regularly?No. It just needs to be set up so it’s there if you need it.
Just a quick note. After April 15th, we’ll be taking a short breather to reset after tax season. We’ll still be checking messages, but responses may be a little slower than usual. We appreciate you as always and will be back to full speed after our brief break.
Warmly,
Melissa Ochoa
Enrolled Agent & Owner, Apple Blossom Tax Service
Serving Sebastopol and Sonoma County
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