A bank letter for direct deposit is a document your bank writes to confirm your account details
A bank letter for direct deposit is an official document from your bank that states your account number, routing number, and account type. Your employer, government agency, or benefits program uses this letter to set up automatic deposits into your account. The letter proves to the payer that the account exists, is in your name, and is ready to receive money.
You need this letter when you want direct deposit but the payer does not have a simple online form to enter your banking information. Some employers and agencies ask for the letter as proof that your account details are correct before they start sending money. Without it, they may delay setting up direct deposit or ask you to provide a voided check instead.
The letter typically comes on your bank's letterhead and includes your name, account number, routing number, and the bank's contact information. Some banks call it a "direct deposit authorization letter" or "account verification letter." The format and details vary by bank, but the core information is always the same.
Key Takeaways
- A bank letter for direct deposit contains your account number, routing number, and account type on official bank letterhead.
- You request the letter from your bank's customer service, either in person, by phone, or through online banking.
- The letter serves as proof that your account exists and is set up to receive automatic deposits.
- Most banks provide the letter for free within one to five business days.
- Some employers and government programs accept a voided check instead, which is faster and requires no bank request.
How to request a bank letter from your bank
Contact your bank directly and ask for a "direct deposit letter" or "account verification letter." Most banks accept requests through three channels: in person at a branch, by phone to customer service, or through your online banking portal. The fastest method depends on your bank—some have an online option that generates the letter instantly, while others require a phone call or branch visit.
When you request the letter, have your account number ready. Tell the bank which account you want verified and confirm that the letter should include your routing number and account type. Some banks ask why you need the letter; you can simply say it is for direct deposit setup.
Most banks provide the letter for free. Turnaround time ranges from same-day (if you request it online or in person) to five business days (if you call or mail a request). If you need the letter urgently, visit a branch in person or check whether your bank's app or website offers instant generation.
What information appears on the letter
The bank letter includes your full name as it appears on the account, your account number, your bank's routing number, and the account type (checking or savings). It also shows the bank's name, address, and phone number. Some letters include the date issued and an expiration date, though many do not expire.
The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank branch. The account number is unique to your account. Together, these two pieces of information tell the payer exactly where to send your money. The account type matters because some direct deposit programs have rules about whether they can deposit into savings accounts.
The letter is signed or stamped by the bank to show it is official. Some banks print it on security paper or include a watermark to prevent forgery. The format varies—some are one page, others two—but the essential information is always present.
When you need a bank letter versus a voided check
A voided check contains the same routing and account numbers as a bank letter and works for most direct deposit setups. A voided check is faster because you already have it—you just write "VOID" across the front in large letters and hand it over. No bank request needed.
Ask your employer or the program whether they accept a voided check before you request a bank letter. Many do, especially employers and payroll systems. Government programs and benefits agencies are more likely to ask for an official bank letter because it carries more weight as proof of account ownership.
If your account is brand new and you have not received checks yet, you cannot use a voided check. In that case, a bank letter is your only option. If you have checks but prefer not to use them, a bank letter works just as well.
How long a bank letter remains valid
Most bank letters do not have an expiration date, so they remain valid indefinitely—as long as your account information does not change. If you close the account, change the account type, or update your name, the letter becomes invalid.
Some employers and government programs set their own expiration dates. They may ask for a letter dated within the last 30 or 60 days, even though the bank itself does not expire it. Check the payer's requirements before you request the letter so you know whether a recent date matters.
If your letter is old and the payer wants a recent one, request a new letter from your bank. The process is the same as the first time, and most banks provide it quickly at no cost.
What to do if your bank cannot provide a letter
Most banks provide direct deposit letters as a standard service, but some online-only banks or credit unions may have different processes. If your bank says it cannot issue a letter, ask whether they can email you a document with your routing and account numbers on letterhead, or whether they accept voided checks instead.
If your bank truly cannot help, contact the payer (your employer or the benefits program) and ask what alternatives they accept. Many will take a screenshot of your online banking portal showing your account details, a bank statement, or a voided check. Some will let you provide the routing and account numbers verbally over the phone, though this is less common.
If you are switching banks and the old bank has closed your account, you cannot get a letter from them. In that case, request a letter from your new bank and provide that to the payer instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a screenshot of my online banking instead of a bank letter?
Some employers and programs accept screenshots showing your account and routing numbers, but most prefer an official bank letter or voided check. Ask the payer first before you submit a screenshot. If they reject it, you can still request a formal letter from your bank.
Does a bank letter cost money?
No. Banks provide direct deposit letters for free as a standard customer service. If a bank charges you, contact their customer service manager and ask them to waive the fee.
What if the payer says my bank letter is too old?
Request a new letter from your bank. The process takes one to five business days and costs nothing. Make sure the new letter is dated within whatever timeframe the payer requires.
Can I use a bank letter from a joint account?
Yes, as long as your name appears on the account. The letter will show both account holders' names. The payer will deposit money into the joint account, and both owners can access it.
What if I do not have a bank account yet?
Open an account first, then request the letter. Most banks can issue a letter the same day you open the account, either in person or online. If you need direct deposit to start immediately, ask your employer whether they can wait a few days while you set up banking.