Federal Enforcement of Payment Methods Modernization
In March 2025, Executive Order 14247 was signed, initiating the federal government’s transition out of standard paper payments, including all checks and money orders, and into Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT). The White House cites inefficiency, unnecessary costs, and risks of fraud and theft as a few reasons for making this change. The Order states that, as of September 2025, the U.S. Secretary of Treasury, Scott Bessent, would officially cease distribution of nonelectronic payments. Additionally, the federal government will only accept electronic payments “as soon as [is] practicable,” (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/03/modernizing-payments-to-and-from-americas-bank-account/). This mandate has been enforced by USCIS as of October 28th, 2025. Since then, the agency has ceased acceptance of all paper payments with few exceptions.
How might this change your filing process?
The existing options for applicants include payment by debit or credit card as well as Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments taken directly from the applicant’s bank account. Each method of payment requires a corresponding form, Form G-1450 for credit or debit card payments, and Form G-1650 for ACH payments.The forms state that USCIS will charge either payment method to the amount authorized by the applicant. However, the forms do not specify at what point in the application process the funds will be taken out. The form continues, “applicants and petitioners should ensure that their accounts have sufficient funds to cover all filing fees. USCIS may reject any application, petition, or request if the transaction is denied.”While prepaid credit cards are an option, as well as Form G-1651, an exemption for eligible applicants, the limitations of these avenues are still unclear. According to USCIS, the categories for exemption eligibility include:
Those without access to banking services or electronic payment systems;
Those who would undergo “undue hardship” if made to pay electronically;
Those deemed eligible by the secretary of the treasury.
It is our goal as an immigration law firm to keep our clients and community informed of these and other changes to immigration proceedings. If you are concerned for how this might impact your filing, call us today at (803) 792-1159.
Other sources: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/uscis-to-modernize-fee-payments-with-electronic-funds
