Yes, you can update your checking account details, but the method depends on why you need to change it

The IRS does not have a single online portal where you log in and update your bank account on file. Instead, how you change your account information depends on what triggered the need: you are expecting a refund and want to redirect it to a different account, you moved money and a deposit failed, or you are setting up direct deposit for the first time for an upcoming payment like a tax refund or stimulus payment.

For tax refunds specifically, you can change your bank details before the IRS processes your return, but once the refund has been issued to an account, you cannot redirect it through the IRS directly. If a deposit was rejected or failed, the IRS has a process to reissue it. For ongoing payments like monthly child tax credit payments or advance payments, you update your account through the specific program portal, not through a general IRS account.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your bank account on your tax return before you file, but not after the IRS has already processed it.
  • If a refund deposit failed or was rejected, contact the IRS at 800-829-1040 to request a reissue to a corrected account.
  • For ongoing IRS payments like advance child tax credits, you update your account through the specific payment program's website or by calling the program directly.
  • The IRS does not offer a centralized "my account" login where you can change banking information across all payment types.
  • If you filed your return with incorrect account details and the refund has already been issued, you may need to contact your bank or wait for the rejected deposit to be returned.

Changing your account before filing your tax return

If you have not yet filed your return and you want to direct your refund to a different checking account, you can enter the correct account number and routing number on your tax form before you submit it. On Form 1040, this information goes in the "Refund" section, lines 33a and 33b. If you file electronically through tax software or a tax professional, you will enter these details in the refund routing screen.

Double-check the account number and routing number before you file. The IRS will not process a refund to an account that does not match the name on your tax return, and if the account number is wrong, the deposit will be rejected and you will have to go through a reissue process. Your routing number is a nine-digit code specific to your bank; you can find it on a check, on your bank's website, or by calling your bank directly.

What to do if your refund was already issued to the wrong account

Once the IRS has processed your return and issued your refund, you cannot change the destination account through the IRS website or by filing an amended return. However, you have options depending on what happened to the deposit.

If the deposit was rejected because the account number was wrong or the account was closed, the IRS will automatically reissue the refund as a check, usually within three to five weeks of the rejection. You can check the status of a rejected deposit by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040 and providing your Social Security number and the amount of the refund. If you want the reissued refund to go to a different account instead of a check, you can request that when you call.

If the deposit went through to an account you no longer control or that belongs to someone else, contact your bank immediately. Your bank can sometimes reverse the transaction if it was sent to the wrong account by mistake. If the account belongs to you but you want the money moved, you will need to transfer it yourself or contact your bank for help. The IRS cannot reverse a completed deposit.

Updating your account for ongoing IRS payments

If you receive regular payments from the IRS — such as advance monthly child tax credit payments, Economic Impact Payments (stimulus checks), or other recurring federal payments — you update your account information through the specific program, not through a general IRS login.

For advance child tax credit payments, you can update your banking information through the Child Tax Credit Update Portal at childtaxcredit.irs.gov. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and street address to log in. Changes made through this portal usually take effect within one to two business days, though it is safer to allow three to five business days before the next scheduled payment.

For other recurring payments, check the IRS notice or letter you received with the payment for instructions on where to update your account. Some payments are managed through separate portals or require you to call a specific phone number listed in your notice.

How to find your correct routing and account numbers

Your routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank or credit union. Your account number is the unique identifier for your checking account at that institution. Both are required to set up direct deposit or to correct account information with the IRS.

The easiest place to find both numbers is on a check from your account. The routing number is the first nine digits at the bottom left of the check, and your account number follows immediately after. You can also log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for account details or routing information. If you cannot find it online, call your bank's customer service line — they can provide both numbers in seconds.

Do not use a savings account number if you have a checking account. The IRS requires a checking account for direct deposit of refunds, though some other federal payments may accept savings accounts. Verify with your bank which type of account you have before you submit the information to the IRS.

If the IRS rejected your deposit

A rejected deposit usually means the account number was incorrect, the account was closed, or the account was frozen. The IRS will not attempt to deposit again to the same account. Instead, it will reissue your refund as a paper check, which takes three to five weeks from the date of rejection.

You can check whether your deposit was rejected by calling the IRS at 800-829-1040 with your Social Security number and the refund amount. If it was rejected, ask the representative to reissue the refund to a corrected account number if you have one, or request that it be sent as a check. Provide the correct account and routing numbers clearly, and ask the representative to repeat them back to you to confirm.

If you prefer not to wait for a check, some banks offer a service where they can retrieve and deposit a check on your behalf if you provide them with the check number and amount. Ask your bank whether this is an option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my bank account information after I have already filed my tax return?

No. Once you file, the account information on your return is locked in. If you need to change it before the IRS processes your return, you would need to file an amended return, which delays your refund significantly. It is better to wait and handle a rejected deposit through the IRS reissue process if needed.

What if I entered my spouse's account number instead of mine?

If the account is in your spouse's name only and your name is not on it, the IRS will reject the deposit. Call 800-829-1040 to request a reissue to an account in your name, or ask for the refund to be issued as a check instead. This usually adds three to five weeks to the timeline.

How long does it take for a corrected bank account to work with the IRS?

If you update your account before filing, it takes effect immediately when you submit your return. If you update it after a rejection through a phone call to the IRS, allow three to five business days for the change to be processed. For ongoing payments like child tax credits, changes usually take one to two business days but can take up to five.

Can I use a savings account instead of a checking account for my IRS refund?

The IRS requires a checking account for tax refunds. Some other federal payments may accept savings accounts, but tax refunds do not. Verify your account type with your bank before submitting your information to the IRS.

What should I do if I do not know my routing number?

Check a blank check from your account — the routing number is the first nine digits at the bottom left. You can also log into your bank's website, call customer service, or visit your bank in person. They can provide it immediately.