Trade Associations
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USPOULTRY Financial Management Seminar Discusses Team Development, Economic Landscape and Cybersecurity Threats
TUCKER, Georgia, July 4 -- The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association (USPOULTRY) issued the following news release on July 3, 2025:* * *
USPOULTRY Financial Management Seminar Discusses Team Development, Economic Landscape and Cybersecurity Threats
The USPOULTRY Financial Management Seminar welcomed more than 150 poultry industry financial professionals in Amelia Island, Fla. A multidisciplinary slate of speakers delivered an impressive array of knowledge to address the issues faced by finance managers, accountants and other financial professionals.
With a high-energy presentation on "Leading Through ... Show Full Article TUCKER, Georgia, July 4 -- The U.S. Poultry and Egg Association (USPOULTRY) issued the following news release on July 3, 2025: * * * USPOULTRY Financial Management Seminar Discusses Team Development, Economic Landscape and Cybersecurity Threats The USPOULTRY Financial Management Seminar welcomed more than 150 poultry industry financial professionals in Amelia Island, Fla. A multidisciplinary slate of speakers delivered an impressive array of knowledge to address the issues faced by finance managers, accountants and other financial professionals. With a high-energy presentation on "Leading ThroughChange," Dr. Rick Goodman of S.T.A Consulting, a keynote speaker and author, kicked off the program and provided attendees with several strategies to drive higher organizational achievement and help teams thrive. Dr. Goodman offered numerous examples of ways to maximize successful change, with two of the most impactful being having a "What if?" mindset and leading through change with enthusiasm and optimism. Attendees were also urged to "risk a yes" and build and maintain relationships.
Christian Lawrence, head of Cross-Asset Macro Strategy at Rabobank, gave attendees an update on the current economic landscape, emphasizing that uncertainty in the economic sphere can be looked at through the lens of changing economic policy to economic statecraft. This shift, in combination with the multi-layered outcomes and macroeconomic implications, makes forecasting exceptionally difficult. Attendees were advised that uncertainty will continue, with possible rate cuts later this year.
A panel discussion, moderated by Greg Finch, CFO and treasurer for Claxton Poultry Farms, focused on team member development and upskilling in finance. The panel included Aaron Weaver, corporate controller at Butterball LLC; Jonathan Jennings, corporate controller at Mar-Jac Poultry; and Jessica Kelley, regional accounting manager at Pilgrim's. A variety of methods for developing team members were discussed, including individual development plans, internal customer surveys and changing perspective on lateral moves.
Lynn Dornblaser, client advisor at Mintel Group Ltd., provided insights on consumer attitudes and opportunities for innovation. Perceived healthy attributes and claims were identified as being important across price points, and the growth of private label product development was explored. Dornblaser also discussed the desire to replace restaurant-style meals at home, despite minimal cooking skills, with value-added products. Chicken was identified as the category leader for new product introductions, including beyond center-of-the-plate items. Additionally, protein content was identified as a key motivator for poultry (chicken) purchases.
Cybersecurity rounded out the discussions with Rich Santoriello, senior director of cybersecurity and infrastructure at Butterball, detailing the cyber threats financial managers need to know about. Santoriello explained the critical importance of cybersecurity defense and preparedness. Citing numerous cyber incidents with far-reaching implications for the businesses and people involved, the significance of ensuring network security - both in informational and operational technology - was emphasized. Recommendations for reducing cyber risks were presented, including password best practices, phishing defense, team member training, malicious website awareness and the rising threat of deep fakes.
USPOULTRY is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. Up to 12 CPE credits may be awarded to seminar attendees. State boards of accountancy have final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit.
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Original text here: https://www.uspoultry.org/media-center/press-releases/single-view/?id=2538
[Category: Agriculture]
Statement of ACAP CEO Margaret A. Murray on House Passage of Senate-Amended Budget Reconciliation Bill
WASHINGTON, July 4 -- The Association for Community Affiliated Plans issued the following statement on July 3, 2025:* * *
Statement of ACAP CEO Margaret A. Murray on House Passage of Senate-Amended Budget Reconciliation Bill
WASHINGTON--Margaret A. Murray, CEO of the Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP), issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate-amended budget reconciliation package featuring historic cuts to Medicaid and Marketplace coverage and benefits:
"We are deeply dismayed by Congress's decision to pass a bill that marks the ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, July 4 -- The Association for Community Affiliated Plans issued the following statement on July 3, 2025: * * * Statement of ACAP CEO Margaret A. Murray on House Passage of Senate-Amended Budget Reconciliation Bill WASHINGTON--Margaret A. Murray, CEO of the Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP), issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate-amended budget reconciliation package featuring historic cuts to Medicaid and Marketplace coverage and benefits: "We are deeply dismayed by Congress's decision to pass a bill that marks themost significant rollback for health care access in our nation's history--stripping coverage from millions of Americans, particularly those who need it most.
"Nearly 12 million people who rely on affordable care will lose coverage. The impact will be felt by families who depend on that care to stay healthy, manage chronic conditions, and continue as active members of their communities.
"This legislation does not reduce bureaucracy; it expands it. It erects new barriers to care and red tape which will make it harder for people to get and keep the coverage they need and deserve. Without access to comprehensive health coverage, we risk a rise in preventable illness and economic insecurity.
"As the bill heads to the President, we remain deeply concerned about its harmful effects on hardworking Americans and safety net health care providers across the country. If we are truly committed to making America healthy again, we must strengthen Medicaid and the Marketplace. ACAP will continue advocating for policies that protect and improve the coverage people need to live their healthiest lives."
About ACAP:
ACAP represents 85 health plans, which collectively provide health coverage to more than 30 million people. Safety Net Health Plans serve their members through Medicaid, Medicare, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), the Marketplace and other publicly-sponsored health programs. For more information, visit communityplans.net.
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Original text here: https://www.communityplans.net/2025/07/03/statement-of-acap-ceo-margaret-a-murray-on-house-passage-of-senate-amended-budget-reconciliation-bill/
[Category: Health Care]
National MS Society: House Passes Budget Resolution With Deep Cuts to Healthcare, Food Assistance and More
NEW YORK, July 4 -- The National Multiple Sclerosis Society issued the following news on July 3, 2025:* * *
House Passes Budget Resolution with Deep Cuts to Healthcare, Food Assistance and More
Today, H.R. 1 or the "One Big, Beautiful Bill" passed the House of Representatives -- the final step before hitting the President's desk. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society remains concerned about the impact this legislation will have for people affected by multiple sclerosis. This legislation will terminate health insurance for an estimated 17 million people through deep cuts to the Medicaid program ... Show Full Article NEW YORK, July 4 -- The National Multiple Sclerosis Society issued the following news on July 3, 2025: * * * House Passes Budget Resolution with Deep Cuts to Healthcare, Food Assistance and More Today, H.R. 1 or the "One Big, Beautiful Bill" passed the House of Representatives -- the final step before hitting the President's desk. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society remains concerned about the impact this legislation will have for people affected by multiple sclerosis. This legislation will terminate health insurance for an estimated 17 million people through deep cuts to the Medicaid programand the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and fails to extend the enhanced tax credits that make it more affordable to purchase ACA coverage. The bill also includes the largest cut ever to food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition and Assistance Program (SNAP) and would add $3.4 trillion in deficit spending, which will affect Congress's ability to fund important priorities in the future. To learn more about the Society's position on the legislation, review our letter (http://cdn.sanity.io/files/y936aps5/production/e1635fa965da9bbcae93ae233f18135aadcbf582.pdf) to the Senate and view the statement from leading health advocacy organizations.
MS Activists partnered with the Society's Advocacy Team to communicate our concerns clearly over the past several months:
* MS Activists held 220+ meetings on Capitol Hill in March as part of the Society's annual Public Policy Conference.
* MS Activists across the country made 856 phone calls and sent 12,364 emails to Capitol Hill in opposition to the bill in 2025.
* MS Activists and Society advocacy staff also:
* Held in-district meetings with targeted Senators in the week leading up to the Senate vote
* Engaged in social media advocacy with their elected officials
* Participated in roundtables with members of Congress
* Attended town hall meetings to communicate with their members
* Participated in press events
* Partnered with other patient advocacy groups and health industry groups
* Joined coalition lobby days and social media action days
* Sent letters and statements to Capitol Hill, outlining the impact of the pending legislation on people affected by MS
In sum, MS Activists worked relentlessly and passionately to make sure that members of Congress were informed at every point in the process about the ways in which the One, Big Beautiful Bill could have a negative impact on the health and well-being of people affected by MS
While our advocacy related to this legislation did not have the effect we had hoped, we remain grateful to and inspired by all the MS Activists who joined in this work. We will be communicating about the timeline for implementation of the provisions of this legislation, to ensure that the MS community is tracking on and aware of key dates.
Learn more (https://www.nationalmssociety.org/how-you-can-help/get-involved/advocate/become-an-ms-activist) about how you can get involved as an MS Activist.
About Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.
About the National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalmssociety.org, Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.
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Original text here: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/news-and-magazine/news/advocacy-breaking-news-2
[Category: Health Care]
NABIP Statement on Passage of H.R. 1 - The One Big Beautiful Bill
WASHINGTON, July 4 -- The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (formerly the National Association of Health Underwriters) issued the following news release:* * *
NABIP Statement on Passage of H.R. 1 - The One Big Beautiful Bill
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(Washington, D.C.) - The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) recognizes the historic passage of H.R. 1, The One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This sweeping legislation includes several critical health policy provisions with far-reaching impacts on employer-sponsored insurance, individual coverage, and the broader ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, July 4 -- The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (formerly the National Association of Health Underwriters) issued the following news release: * * * NABIP Statement on Passage of H.R. 1 - The One Big Beautiful Bill * (Washington, D.C.) - The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) recognizes the historic passage of H.R. 1, The One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This sweeping legislation includes several critical health policy provisions with far-reaching impacts on employer-sponsored insurance, individual coverage, and the broaderhealthcare marketplace. "This legislation includes several provisions that align with long-standing NABIP priorities," said NABIP CEO Jessica Brooks-Woods. "It acknowledges the importance of maintaining the employer-sponsored insurance tax exclusion and expands tools like HSAs that support consumer-directed care."
NABIP Celebrates the Following Wins:
* No new taxes on employer-sponsored healthcare and benefits
* Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) expanded to include Bronze and Catastrophic exchange plans
* HSAs now compatible with Direct Primary Care arrangements
* Permanent safe harbor for telehealth services before deductible
* Extension of small business deductions for small agencies and sole proprietors
Remaining Priorities for Future Congressional Action:
* Extension of Enhanced Premium Tax Credits for the individual market, set to expire at the end of 2025
* HSA expansion for working seniors
* Comprehensive Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) reforms beyond Medicaid and Medicare
* Codifying Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs) into law
* Modernizing and clarifying ACA marketplace enrollment rules
"NABIP remains committed to supporting reforms that improve consumer choice, promote market stability, and recognize the critical role that agents and brokers play in guiding individuals, families, and employers through complex healthcare decisions," added Brooks-Woods. "We will continue to advocate for policies that protect and empower healthcare consumers and the professionals who serve them."
NABIP is the preeminent organization for health insurance and employee benefits professionals, working diligently to ensure all Americans have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare and related benefits. NABIP represents more than 100,000 licensed health insurance agents, brokers, general agents, consultants and benefit professionals through more than 150 chapters.
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Original text here: https://nabip.org/media/10405/bbb-final.pdf
[Category: Insurance]
GAMA Statement on Passage of U.S. Budget Reconciliation Bill
WASHINGTON, July 4 -- The General Aviation Manufacturers Association issued the following statement on July 3, 2025:* * *
GAMA Statement on Passage of U.S. Budget Reconciliation Bill
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WASHINGTON, D.C. - General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) president and CEO, James Viola, issued the following statement regarding the aviation-related provisions included in the budget reconciliation bill which has been passed by both bodies of the U.S. Congress:
"GAMA appreciates the hard work that was put forth by Congress in the budget reconciliation package to grow and strengthen aviation manufacturing ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, July 4 -- The General Aviation Manufacturers Association issued the following statement on July 3, 2025: * * * GAMA Statement on Passage of U.S. Budget Reconciliation Bill * WASHINGTON, D.C. - General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) president and CEO, James Viola, issued the following statement regarding the aviation-related provisions included in the budget reconciliation bill which has been passed by both bodies of the U.S. Congress: "GAMA appreciates the hard work that was put forth by Congress in the budget reconciliation package to grow and strengthen aviation manufacturingleadership and the overall aviation ecosystem. While more investment is needed, this bill provides a much-needed downpayment for modernizing the U.S. air traffic control system. It also provides tax incentives that allow for general aviation manufacturers to further champion innovation and safety, support jobs and spur economic growth. These tax incentives provide a catalyst for U.S. aerospace manufacturers to continue to lead on a global scale and contribute to our industry's positive trade balance."
GAMA is an international trade association representing over 150 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.
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Original text here: https://gama.aero/news-and-events/press-releases/gama-statement-on-passage-of-u-s-budget-reconciliation-bill/
[Category: Business]
CHA Urges House of Representatives to Vote 'No' on Reconciliation Bill
WASHINGTON, July 4 -- The Children's Hospital Association issued the following statement on July 3, 2025:* * *
CHA Urges House of Representatives to Vote 'No' on Reconciliation Bill
The final bill up for a vote in the House pushes Medicaid cuts too far, will hurt children's care.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. - Ahead of the House of Representatives' vote on the reconciliation bill, Children's Hospital Association President and CEO Matthew Cook urged lawmakers to vote 'no' to protect children's health care:
"As far as we are concerned, the bill being weighed in the House right now is a stark pivot away ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, July 4 -- The Children's Hospital Association issued the following statement on July 3, 2025: * * * CHA Urges House of Representatives to Vote 'No' on Reconciliation Bill The final bill up for a vote in the House pushes Medicaid cuts too far, will hurt children's care. * WASHINGTON, D.C. - Ahead of the House of Representatives' vote on the reconciliation bill, Children's Hospital Association President and CEO Matthew Cook urged lawmakers to vote 'no' to protect children's health care: "As far as we are concerned, the bill being weighed in the House right now is a stark pivot awayfrom protecting children's health and well-being.
"We've said it consistently: cutting Medicaid doesn't only impact the nearly half of American children who are insured on the program, but every single child who will need care. With Medicaid cuts this severe, hospitals will have to make tough decisions about which services they can sustain for all children they serve, not just kids on Medicaid.
"This bill goes much further than the version the House originally passed, more than doubling the state directed payments and provider tax cuts to over $350 billion and directly impacting the care that children's hospitals provide to all children. On behalf of the more than 200 children's hospitals we represent, we ask the House to vote against this reconciliation bill."
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Original text here: https://www.childrenshospitals.org/news/newsroom/2025/07/cha-urges-house-representatives-to-vote-no-on-reconciliation-bill
[Category: Health Care]
AICPA Makes Recommendations as Treasury and IRS Transition to Electronic Payment and Disbursement System
NEW YORK, July 4 -- The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants issued the following news release:* * *
AICPA Makes Recommendations as Treasury and IRS Transition to Electronic Payment and Disbursement System
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Washington, D.C. (July 3, 2025) - In a letter sent to the Department of the Treasury, the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) offered feedback and recommendations for comments pertaining to the implementation of Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Accounts. The order requires the Secretary of the Treasury to cease issuing paper ... Show Full Article NEW YORK, July 4 -- The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants issued the following news release: * * * AICPA Makes Recommendations as Treasury and IRS Transition to Electronic Payment and Disbursement System * Washington, D.C. (July 3, 2025) - In a letter sent to the Department of the Treasury, the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) offered feedback and recommendations for comments pertaining to the implementation of Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Accounts. The order requires the Secretary of the Treasury to cease issuing paperchecks for all federal disbursements, and requires all payments made by the federal government to be electronically processed. Additionally, the order requires that issuing paper checks for federal disbursements must cease by September 30, 2025, and that all federal receipts should be processed electronically as soon as practicable to the extent permitted by law.
The adoption of an electronic system for federal disbursements and receipts would increase efficiency, reduce costs and significantly diminish the occurrence of lost or stolen checks. The AICPA has supported the transition to electronic payments for federal disbursements and receipts; however, there are challenges with implementing a system that imposes a mandate on taxpayers to have a U.S. bank account in order to participate. Mandating a U.S. bank account for electronic tax payments could exclude vulnerable taxpayers like seniors and the "unbanked" population, while international banking rules currently limit automated clearing house (ACH) transfers with non-U.S. financial institutions.
The AICPA's letter cites the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration's (TIGTA) report on the 2024 filing season which states that, for the most recent tax year, nearly 7 million taxpayers were issued refunds through a method other than electronic payment.
The AICPA requests that Treasury consider the following recommendations:
* Implement exceptions to the order for individuals and business entities not physically present in the U.S. that do not have a U.S. bank account.
* Exempt temporary non-U.S. individuals - such as short-term business visitors - from electronic payment mandates, allowing them to receive tax refunds by paper check. AICPA also recommends permitting individuals without a Social Security Number or individual taxpayer identification number to make tax payments by check until their taxpayer identification is issued, helping them meet their obligations and avoid penalties.
* Expand Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) capabilities, which would enable business accounts to submit payments on behalf of individuals for Form 1040 and 1040-NR, including estimated tax payments, extension payments and balances due. There should be no cap on the number of individual transactions a business account can process.
* Exempt all trust and estate income tax return filings from the requirements of the order until Form 1041 has been updated with the appropriate information and that implementation of the order be delayed for trusts and estates until Treasury and the IRS can address certain issues concerning the administration of an estate or trust. Additionally, the AICPA recommends that Treasury and the IRS allow trusts and estates to pay via IRS Direct Pay, rather than have to set up an EFTPS account.
* Provide specific guidance regarding how exceptions will be applied for and granted to qualified taxpayers to whom this order would present an undue burden, including individuals over the age of 65 and taxpayers who are unable or unwilling to obtain U.S. bank accounts. The AICPA also recommends that taxpayers granted an exception have the option to receive tax refunds as a paper check or through a direct express card.
* Extend the timeframe for implementation of the order or that, at a minimum, the Secretary offer meaningful transitional rules when facilitating the transition of the federal disbursement and receipt system to being exclusively electronic.
* Consider seeking statutory authority for the mandates outlined in the executive order, which would provide a solid foundation for this transition to electronic payments.
* Convene a group of stakeholders, including the AICPA, to assist with the establishment of rules and processes for implementing the order.
"For many years, the AICPA has advocated for and supported the modernization of the IRS and its payment systems; although this executive order is a step in the right direction, there are many considerations before implementing changes, which means updated processes and carefully tailored rules will need to be developed," said Daniel Hauffe, Senior Manager for Tax Policy & Advocacy with the AICPA. "The AICPA's recommendations allow for the modernization of the IRS' tax payment systems while mitigating the impact of the administrative burden on taxpayers, tax practitioners and the IRS that could be caused by this executive order."
About the American Institute of CPAs
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) is the world's largest member association representing the CPA profession, with 397,000 members and a history of serving the public interest since 1887. AICPA members represent many areas of practice, including business and industry, public practice, government, education, and consulting. A founding member of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the AICPA sets ethical standards for the profession, attestation standards, and U.S. auditing standards for private companies, not-for-profit organizations, and federal, state, and local governments. It develops and grades the Uniform CPA Examination, offers specialized credentials, partners across the profession to build future talent, and drives continuing education to advance the vitality, relevance, and quality of the profession.
Mr. Tyler Curtis, Director, Office of Consumer Policy, Department of the Treasury, 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20220
Ms. Nora Esposito, Senior Advisor, Office of Consumer Policy, Department of the Treasury, 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20220
Re: Request for Information Related to the Executive Order on "Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Accounts"
Dear Mr. Curtis and Ms. Esposito:
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) is writing to offer feedback and recommendations in response to the May 30, 2025 request by the Department of Treasury ("Treasury") for comments regarding the implementation of Executive Order 14247, "Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Accounts," issued on March 25, 2025 (the "Order")./1
Adoption of an electronic system for federal disbursements and receipts would increase efficiency, reduce costs, and significantly diminish the occurrence of lost or stolen checks. Although the AICPA generally supports the transition to electronic payments for federal disbursements and receipts, we also recognize some challenges in implementing a system that essentially imposes a mandate on taxpayers to have a U.S. bank account to participate in our tax system. Such a mandate could serve to disenfranchise vulnerable taxpayers, such as senior citizens and the "unbanked" population. Further, international banking regulations currently restrict automated clearing house (ACH) transfers to and from non-U.S. financial institutions.
Background
According to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration's (TIGTA) report on the 2024 filing season, paper return volumes decreased by 11.4%, e-filed returns increased by 1.9%, but the number of direct deposit refunds decreased by 3% and the number of other refunds (which incorporates paper checks and prepaid debit cards) increased by 30% (approximately 1.6 million more than in the 2023 tax year)./2 Although this represents a single comparison between 2023 and 2024, it illustrates the fact that, for the most recent tax year, nearly 7 million taxpayers were issued refunds through a method other than electronic payment. The same TIGTA report found that the IRS "identified 441,660 tax returns with approximately $6.5 billion claimed in fraudulent refunds and prevented the issuance of $6.4 billion...in refunds associated with 433,414 tax returns."
In addition, a fact sheet accompanying the Order explained that "Treasury checks are 16 times more likely to be reported lost or stolen, returned undeliverable, or altered than an electronic funds transfer."/3 Although tax refund fraud and theft is not exclusive to paper checks, the figures cited by TIGTA illustrate the serious problem that paper checks pose to our tax system.
Generally, the Order requires the Secretary of the Treasury ("Secretary") to cease issuing paper checks for all federal disbursements and to require all payments made by the federal government to be electronically processed. The Order requires that issuing paper checks for federal disbursements must cease by September 30, 2025, and that all federal receipts should be processed electronically as soon as practicable to the extent permitted by law. The Secretary has the authority to revise the following list of limited exceptions to the general rule:
1. Individuals who do not have access to banking services or electronic payment systems.
2. Certain emergency payments where electronic disbursement would cause undue hardship, as contemplated in 31 C.F.R. Part 208.
3. National security- or law enforcement-related activities where non-EFT transactions are necessary or desirable.
4. Other circumstances as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury, as reflected in regulations or other guidance.
The AICPA recommends that Treasury consider the following issues:
I. Financial regulations that impede international taxpayer compliance
II. International taxpayers, mobility programs, and individuals lacking U.S. tax identification numbers
III. Improve EFTPS functionality for corporate and relocation service providers
IV. Impact on executors and trustees
V. Automatic exceptions for certain taxpayers
VI. Period of time to implement the Order
VII. Legal authority to implement the Order
VIII. Incorporate stakeholders in developing administrative processes and rules
I. Financial regulations that impede international taxpayer compliance
Overview
International taxpayers, both individuals and business entities, are limited by international banking regulations in their ability to make ACH deposits and withdrawals through the U.S. banking system from or to their foreign bank accounts. As a result, taxpayers who only have foreign bank accounts will be legally precluded from complying with the Order.
Recommendation
The AICPA recommends that the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) implement exceptions to the Order for individuals and business entities not physically present in the U.S. that do not have a U.S. bank account.
Analysis
United States taxpayers located overseas often only have bank accounts at foreign financial institutions. Section 4 of the Order includes exceptions for "(i) individuals who do not have access to banking services or electronic payment systems" and "(iv) other circumstances as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury as reflected in regulations or other guidance." Because tax refunds may not be deposited into a foreign bank account,/4 the language of section 4(i) or 4(iv) of the Order should incorporate taxpayers based outside the U.S.
Section 4(b) of the Order states that "[i]ndividuals or entities qualifying for an exception under this section or applicable law shall be provided alternative payment options." While some taxpayers living or operating abroad have U.S. bank accounts, not all do. Therefore, taxpayers not physically present in the U.S. without U.S. bank accounts should continue to have the option to receive paper checks or prepaid cards for tax refunds. As the implementation period for the Order is short, the AICPA would appreciate guidance on how tax practitioners should advise clients living or operating abroad regarding upcoming tax payments and refunds.
II. International taxpayers, mobility programs, and individuals lacking U.S. tax identification numbers
Overview
Individuals working in the United States on a temporary basis, particularly those from abroad, as well as the organizations and relocation firms that assist them, encounter distinct obstacles in adhering to the requirements of the Order. Many foreign nationals may find it difficult to open or maintain a U.S. bank account due to stringent documentation standards, recurring account fees, or leaving the country following their assignment. Furthermore, taxpayers who do not possess a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) are unable to utilize electronic payment systems (e.g., IRS Direct Pay or credit/debit card) because these platforms require a valid taxpayer identification number (TIN).
Recommendation
The AICPA recommends that Treasury and the IRS provide an exemption from the Order's requirements for non-U.S. individuals in the U.S. on a temporary basis (e.g., short-term business visitors or frequent travelers) so that they may continue to receive tax refunds via paper check. Such exemptions could be based on visa classifications (e.g., B-1 visa holders), as this information is reported on Schedule OI of Form 1040-NR, U.S. Nonresident Alien Income Tax Return. Furthermore, the AICPA recommends that Treasury and the IRS allow individuals who do not yet have an SSN or ITIN to continue making tax payments by paper check until their TIN is issued, thus enabling these individuals to fulfill their U.S. tax obligations and avoid potential underpayment penalties.
Analysis
Employers and relocation management companies frequently handle tax payments to the IRS on behalf of their globally mobile employees as part of tax equalization arrangements. There is currently no effective electronic method for these entities to make such payments, and eliminating the option to use paper checks would introduce significant compliance and collection difficulties. Likewise, individuals without SSNs or ITINs typically rely on paper checks to submit estimated tax payments and avoid penalties. Without appropriate exceptions, these taxpayers would face undue hardship and risk being penalized for circumstances beyond their control.
III. Overview Improve EFTPS functionality for corporate and relocation service providers
At present, the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) does not permit businesses or relocation service providers to process tax payments on behalf of individual taxpayers. This restriction poses significant challenges for multinational organizations that need to manage U.S. tax obligations for their globally mobile employees as part of tax equalization or mobility programs.
Recommendation
The AICPA recommends that Treasury and the IRS expand EFTPS capabilities, which would enable business accounts to submit payments on behalf of individuals for Form 1040 and 1040 NR, including estimated tax payments, extension payments, and balances due. There should be no cap on the number of individual transactions a business account can process.
Analysis
Enhancing EFTPS in this manner would streamline compliance for multinational employers and relocation vendors, thus ensuring timely and accurate payment of U.S. tax liabilities for internationally assigned employees. Under the current system, business-enrolled EFTPS accounts are restricted from making payments on individual tax forms, as the platform differentiates between business and individual taxpayer roles. Addressing this limitation would better support the needs of organizations with cross-border workforces and facilitate adherence to tax equalization policies, and prompt electronic payment of tax liabilities.
IV. Impact on executors and trustees
Overview
Currently, Form 1041, U.S. Income Tax Return for Estates and Trusts, and Form 706, United States Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return, do not have a place to enter direct deposit information. The only method by which estates and trusts can request electronic deposits for refunds is filing a Form 8302, Electronic Deposit of Tax Refund of $1 Million or More, and that method is only available if the refund is over $1,000,000. All Form 1041 trust returns currently on extension have a filing date of September 30, 2025, which is the same day as the deadline in the Order. Even if Form 1041 and Form 706 are updated, banking institutions acting as corporate fiduciaries will not be able to obtain refunds electronically using the limitations currently in place for other taxpayers. A
dditionally, trusts and estates cannot pay via IRS Direct Pay like individuals can. Instead, trusts and estates must set up an EFTPS account, which can be burdensome.
Recommendation
The AICPA recommends that Treasury and the IRS exempt all trust and estate income tax return filings from the requirements of the Order until Form 1041 and Form 706 have been updated with the appropriate information and that implementation of the Order be delayed for trusts and estates until Treasury and the IRS can address certain issues concerning the administration of an estate or trust. Additionally, the AICPA recommends that Treasury and the IRS allow trusts and estates to pay via IRS Direct Pay, rather than having to set up an EFTPS account.
Analysis
To receive an electronic refund, the name on the tax return must match the name on the bank account into which the refund is to be deposited. For banking institutions acting as fiduciaries, this requirement generally cannot be met. Under current Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) regulations, banking institutions use only one designated checking account in the name of the bank for all their trust accounts. Additionally, for executors filing a final Form 1041 or Form 706, the estate's checking account name will not match the name on the final Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
Unlike other taxpayers, a trustee or executor of a trust or estate can be replaced or removed with little or no notice, which could cause issues if a change is made while an electronic refund is pending. Treasury and the IRS should consider developing a process allowing new trustees and executors to electronically notify and furnish the appropriate documentation to the IRS and Treasury, and to immediately redirect all pending electronic deposits to the account established and identified by the new trustee or executor.
Lastly, allowing trusts and estates to pay via IRS Direct Pay would simplify electronic payments to the IRS for trusts and estates and would afford them the same direct pay access as individuals.
V. Automatic exceptions for certain taxpayers
Overview
Per the Order, the Secretary has the authority to grant limited exceptions to the general rule requiring taxpayers to transition from paper checks to electronic payments. Careful consideration and properly tailored rules are essential to successfully phasing out paper checks for a significant number of taxpayers. Senior citizens and individuals who do not have access to banking services or electronic payment systems could be detrimentally impacted by the Order and may find it challenging or overly burdensome to even attempt to comply with such an Order.
Recommendation
The AICPA recommends that Treasury and the IRS provide specific guidance regarding how exceptions will be applied for and granted to qualified taxpayers to whom this Order would present an undue burden, including individuals over the age of 65 and taxpayers who are unable or unwilling to obtain U.S. bank accounts. We also recommend that taxpayers granted an exception have the option to receive tax refunds as a paper check or through a direct express card.
Analysis
AICPA members represent many taxpayers who are comfortable making and accepting electronic payments from the federal government. However, the primary target of the Order is taxpayers who have not yet transitioned from paper checks to electronic payments. Within this target group, the taxpayers who are most likely to be represented by tax professionals are elderly taxpayers. Though some of these taxpayers may have a tax professional who can help them through the transition to electronic payments, the short time frame of the Order sets an unrealistic window to do so, particularly as it comes before the extended Form 1040 filing deadline of October 15, 2025.
Additionally, not every taxpayer has the means to hire a tax professional to help them with the transition. The Order grants the Secretary the power to adopt exceptions for taxpayers who cannot reasonably comply with the Order and to identify groups that may be eligible for an exception. The AICPA respectfully requests that the Secretary issue guidance regarding how these exceptions will be applied for and granted. Timely and accurate instructions and the simplicity of the application process will be critical for taxpayers applying for an exception or tax practitioners assisting clients with any exception.
In establishing guidance for exceptions, it is beneficial to have certainty in determining eligibility. Thus, Treasury should consider adopting certain "automatic" exceptions for classes of taxpayers most likely to have difficulty complying with the Order. For example, taxpayers over the age of 65 are often less comfortable with electronic financial transactions and may be particularly concerned with potential hacking, malware, or other nefarious activities and, therefore, may be hesitant to provide bank account numbers to any outside party, including the federal government. To alleviate this group's concerns, the Secretary should consider offering a blanket exception to the Order for taxpayers over the age of 65. Even though a blanket exception appears overly expansive on its face, many taxpayers over the age of 65 already use and prefer electronic payments; however, such an exception would offer significant and effortless relief to taxpayers over the age of 65 who are uncomfortable with electronic financial transactions.
Further, certain groups of taxpayers are currently "unbanked" and do not have access to or are unwilling to utilize electronic banking systems. An FDIC report indicated that nearly 4% of U.S. households remain unbanked, which is more than 5 million individuals./5 Also, federal banking regulations requiring banks to "know your customer" may limit the ability of certain classes of taxpayers to open a traditional bank account. Many unbanked individuals may not reside near a bank, have sufficient income to prevent incurring various bank fees, and may not have tax or financial professionals to assist in this transition. The Secretary should consider an exception to the Order for taxpayers who can demonstrate that they have made good faith efforts to open a bank account and were rejected or have offered a reasonable explanation for being unwilling to comply. Under these circumstances, the Treasury should issue either a paper check or prepaid stored value card to the taxpayer.
The sooner the procedures for requesting an exception to the Order (including the definition of who qualifies for any "automatic" exceptions) are released to the public, the more quickly taxpayers will be able to comply with the Order.
VI. Period of time to implement the Order
Overview
The Order requires heads of agencies to submit a compliance plan to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget within 90 days of the date of the Order (March 25, 2025). The 90 day window ended on June 23, 2025. The Order further directs heads of agencies to work with the Secretary to develop and implement a comprehensive public awareness campaign to inform federal payment recipients of the transition to electronic payments on September 30, 2025.
Recommendation
The AICPA recommends that the timeframe for implementation of the Order be extended or that, at a minimum, the Secretary offer meaningful transitional rules when facilitating the transition of the federal disbursement and receipt system to being exclusively electronic.
Analysis
Although the AICPA generally supports a transition to electronic federal disbursements, there are a number of serious concerns that the Secretary should consider and address before implementing the Order, and it will take diligent and careful consideration to construct rules that technically and procedurally address such concerns. Therefore, the Secretary should consider requesting an extended timeframe to implement the Order until both taxpayers and agencies, including the IRS, have a reasonable amount of time to comply with the Order's mandates.
The September 30 implementation date is particularly concerning because many taxpayers extended their 2024 federal income tax returns to October 15, 2025, and they will be directly impacted by the Order. The September 30 deadline would provide the IRS little time to adjust systems, to adopt practices implementing the rules and their exceptions, and to offer any meaningful public awareness. In addition, the transition would be required to take place in advance of the October 15, 2025, extended filing deadline, which would give the IRS a few months mid-filing season to make the necessary process changes and would leave the IRS with no ability to modify return filing instructions that would include the requirement that refunds be received electronically.
Further, the target group for the mandates of the Order are individuals who have not yet adopted electronic banking and are more likely to make errors setting up their bank accounts regulatory guidance in place for correcting errors such as deposits of refunds in the wrong bank accounts,/6 we are concerned that the IRS will not have the time to train and deploy the personnel to handle an increase in errors in this area, which would create a burden for taxpayers attempting direct deposits of refunds for the first time. Additionally, the IRS would need to develop and implement practices to track and resolve electronic payment errors, especially considering that electronic payment errors are more difficult to trace by the IRS and may go unnoticed by the taxpayer.
In addition to the potential issues created by taxpayer errors, the IRS sometimes erroneously (and unexpectedly) issues a refund check to a taxpayer. Practitioners customarily advise clients not to deposit such checks and to return them to the IRS. With electronically deposited refunds, taxpayers lose the ability to return refunds sent in error. Treasury and the IRS should develop a process to notify taxpayers when a refund is electronically deposited and should afford taxpayers the ability to reject the deposit or return the deposit without potential tax consequences when they believe it is in error. Given such concerns, Treasury and the IRS should consider delaying implementation of the Order until such concerns have been properly addressed.
Thus, the Secretary should consider extending the timeframe for implementation of the Order, or at a minimum providing significant transitional relief when making this one-time transition to an exclusively electronic federal disbursement and payment system.
VII. Legal authority to implement the Order
Overview
The Executive Order may lack legal authority to withhold a taxpayer's refund in the absence of an agreement to receive such funds electronically. Such withholding may be subject to legal challenges that could result in a ruling invalidating the Order.
Recommendation
The AICPA recommends that Treasury consider seeking statutory authority for this mandate, which would provide a solid foundation for the transition to electronic payments.
Analysis
Though rare, some taxpayers (e.g., victims of online scams or identity theft) do not feel comfortable sharing bank account numbers and other sensitive financial information electronically. There does not appear to be any legal authority for the IRS to withhold a tax refund if those taxpayers refuse to comply with the requirements of the Order./7 The risk that the Order could be invalidated by the courts, compelling the IRS to continue to issue paper checks for an undefined period of time, could undermine the worthy goals of reducing costs and preventing fraud through mandating electronic payments. Consequently, the Treasury should consider pursuing statutory authority for mandating electronic payments, which would provide a stronger legal case for the phase out of paper checks.
VIII. Incorporate stakeholders in developing administrative processes and rules
Overview
AICPA members advise millions of taxpayers on tax return issues, assist them with compliance responsibilities, and represent taxpayers before the IRS. As one of the IRS's most significant stakeholders and advocates for taxpayers and tax practitioners, AICPA is poised and committed to being a key resource to Treasury and the IRS in developing the framework for processes that will dramatically improve the transition to a predominantly electronic federal payment and disbursement system without unintentionally increasing the tax administrative burden that could result if such processes are implemented too hastily.
Recommendation
The AICPA recommends that Treasury and the IRS convene a group of stakeholders, including the AICPA, to assist with the establishment of rules and processes for implementing the Order.
Analysis
Treasury and the IRS have the opportunity to leverage the tax community in developing rules and processes to ensure that the transition to a modernized federal payment and disbursement system does not create additional tax administrative burdens for taxpayers, tax practitioners, and the IRS. By collaborating with and incorporating feedback from the world's largest member association representing the accounting profession and other stakeholders critical to our tax system, Treasury and the IRS can craft carefully tailored exceptions, offer targeted transitional relief for taxpayers that would not be able to comply with the Order immediately upon implementation, and generate ideas and proposals for judiciously moving closer to an exclusively electronic payment and disbursement system.
The AICPA is the world's largest member association representing the accounting profession, with more than 397,000 members in the United States and worldwide, and a history of serving the public interest since 1887. Our members advise clients on federal, state and international tax matters and prepare income and other tax returns for millions of Americans. Our members provide services to individuals, not-for-profit organizations, small and medium-sized businesses, as well as America's largest businesses.
We appreciate your consideration of these comments and welcome the opportunity to discuss these issues further. If you have any questions, please contact: Daniel Hauffe, AICPA Senior Manager, Tax Policy & Advocacy at (202) 434-9260 or Daniel.Hauffe@aicpa-cima.com; Melissa Wiley, chair of the AICPA IRS Advocacy and Relations Committee at (202) 800-6418 or mwiley@Kostelanetz.com; or Cheri Freeh, chair of the AICPA Tax Executive Committee at (610) 217-4495 or CheriFreeh@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Cheri H. Freeh, CPA, CGMA
Chair, AICPA Tax Executive Committee
cc:
The Honorable Scott Bessent , Secretary of the Treasury, Department of the Treasury
The Honorable William (Billy) H. Long II, Commissioner, Internal Revenue Service
The Honorable Kenneth J. Kies, Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy, Department of the Treasury
Ms. Shelley Leonard, Deputy Tax Legislative Counsel, Treasury Department
Ms. Erin Collins, National Taxpayer Advocate, Internal Revenue Service
1/ Request for Information Related to the Executive Order, "Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Accounts," 90 Fed. Reg. 23,108 (May 30, 2025).
2/ TIGTA, Final Results of the 2024 Filing Season, TIGTA Rep. No. 2025-408-016 (April 24,2025).
3/ Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Modernizes Payments to and from America's Bank Accounts (March 25, 2025).
4/ Internal Revenue Service, "Helpful tips for effectively receiving a tax refund for taxpayers living abroad" (May 22, 2025).
5/ Federal Reserve Board, Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households (May 28, 2025).
6/ IRC Sec.6402(n); Treas. Reg. Sec. 301.6402-2(g)
7/ IRC Sec. 6402 is the relevant statutory provision for the issuance of refunds; it is silent as to a mandatory method of payment. Treas. Reg. Sec. 301.6402-2(f) describes the "mailing of [a] refund check." In addition, the Internal Revenue Manual (IRM) 21.4.1.5.7 and the IRS website (Refund Inquiries 18 | Internal Revenue Service) describe a mailed paper check as the default method of payment when a taxpayer fails to provide electronic banking information or the electronic banking information provided is incorrect, invalid, or rejected by the financial institution.
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Original text here: https://www.aicpa-cima.com/news/article/aicpa-makes-recommendations-as-treasury-and-irs-transition-to-electronic
[Category: Accounting]