u/Big-Alfalfa-7047

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some advice or similar experiences regarding a tax refund issue. I’m a non-resident (J-1 visa) who participated in a program in the U.S. last year.

The Situation:

I filed my taxx return via Turbotax and specifically requested Direct Deposit for my refund However, for some reason, the IRS ignored the direct deposit info and mailed a physical check to my U.S. friend’s address instead.

The Problem:

My friend forwarded the check to me in Turkey via UPS. Now, the package is stuck in Turkish customs. They’ve classified it as "valuable paper/negotiable instrument" and are demanding formal import procedures (which are extremely expensive and complicated for an individual). Essentially, I cannot receive this physical check.

Has anyone successfully requested the IRS to cancel a mailed check and reissue it via Direct Deposit? I’ve heard they usually insist on mailing a new check, but given the international shipping issues, is there any way to push for a digital transfer?