Add your bank account through your tax return or IRS account

The IRS accepts bank account information in two ways: when you file your tax return, or by updating your account on IRS.gov after you've already filed. If you're filing now, you can enter your routing number and account number directly on your return—most tax software and the IRS Free File program have a field for this. If you've already filed without banking details, you can log into your IRS online account and add the information there, though the IRS will still mail a check if your refund processes before the update takes effect.

Direct deposit is faster than a mailed check. A refund by direct deposit typically arrives within 21 days of the IRS accepting your return; a check takes three to four weeks or longer depending on mail delivery. The IRS will not charge you to set up direct deposit, and your bank will not charge you to receive it.

Key Takeaways

  • You need your bank's routing number and your account number to set up direct deposit; both appear on a blank check or your bank's website.
  • If you're filing now, enter your banking details on your tax return itself—most software and IRS Free File have a field for this.
  • If you've already filed, log into your IRS account at IRS.gov and update your banking information there, though a check may arrive first if your refund processes quickly.
  • Direct deposit refunds arrive within 21 days of acceptance; mailed checks take three to four weeks or longer depending on your location and mail service.
  • The IRS will not use your account information for anything other than depositing your refund.

Finding your routing number and account number

Your routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank. Your account number is unique to your specific account. Both appear on the bottom left of any check you have from that account—the routing number comes first, then your account number. If you don't have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for account details or account information; most banks display both numbers there.

Do not include the check number (the third number on the bottom of the check). Some banks also print the routing number on their website under "bank details" or "wire information." If you cannot find either number, call your bank's customer service line and ask for your routing number and account number; they will give both to you over the phone.

Adding bank details when you file your return

If you're using tax software—TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, or another program—the software will ask for your refund method before you submit. Select "direct deposit" and enter your routing number and account number in the fields provided. The software will show you exactly where to type each one. Review the numbers carefully before you submit, because an error in either number will cause the IRS to mail a check instead.

If you're using IRS Free File (available at IRS.gov if your income is below a certain threshold, which varies by year), the same fields appear in the return itself. After you enter your banking information and submit your return, the IRS will display a confirmation screen showing the last two digits of your account number—check that this matches your actual account before you close the browser.

If you're filing on paper, you cannot include banking information on the form itself. Mail your return to the address shown in the instructions, and then log into your IRS account online to add your bank details after the IRS processes your return. This delays direct deposit, so filing electronically is faster if you want your refund by bank transfer.

Updating your bank account after you've filed

Log into your IRS account at IRS.gov using your Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), date of birth, and either a password you've created or a login.gov account. Once you're logged in, look for a section called "Account" or "Tax Records" and find the option to view or update your refund status. Some accounts show a link that says "Add or Change Bank Account Information" or similar; click that link.

Enter your routing number and account number in the fields provided, then save your changes. The IRS will send you a confirmation email. However, if your refund has already been processed and sent to the IRS's payment processor, updating your account will not redirect it—the IRS will still mail a check. The update takes effect for future refunds or if your current refund is still in processing.

If you cannot access your IRS account online, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and provide your banking information to a representative over the phone. Have your routing number and account number ready before you call. Wait times are typically shorter in the early morning or late afternoon.

What happens if you enter the wrong account number

If you enter an incorrect routing number or account number, the IRS will attempt the deposit and the transfer will fail. When this happens, the IRS stops the deposit and mails a check to your address on file instead. The check arrives within three to four weeks of the failed deposit attempt. You will not lose the money—it simply comes by mail rather than by bank transfer.

If you realize you made an error before the IRS processes your return, log back into your account or contact the IRS to correct it. If the deposit has already failed and you've received a check, deposit the check normally at your bank. Do not attempt to contact the IRS to reroute a failed deposit; the check is the standard recovery method.

Security and privacy of your banking information

The IRS uses your bank account information only to deposit your refund. The agency does not share this information with other government agencies, does not use it to monitor your account, and does not retain it after your refund is deposited. Your banking details are encrypted when you enter them on IRS.gov or through tax software.

Be cautious of emails or phone calls claiming to be from the IRS and asking for your banking information. The IRS does not initiate contact by email or unsolicited phone call to request account details. If you receive such a message, do not respond and do not provide any information. Report the message to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at tigta.gov.

Changing your bank account for future refunds

You can update your banking information in your IRS account at any time, even if you don't have a pending refund. Log into IRS.gov, navigate to your account settings, and update your bank details. The new information will be used for any future refunds. You do not need to wait until you file your next return to make this change.

If you close the bank account you used for a previous refund, update your IRS account with your new account information before you file your next return. This prevents the IRS from attempting to deposit into a closed account, which would result in a mailed check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a savings account instead of a checking account?

Yes. The IRS will deposit into either a checking or savings account as long as you provide the correct routing number and account number. Your bank treats the deposit the same way it treats any other incoming transfer. There is no difference in processing time or security.

What if I don't have a bank account?

You can still receive your refund by check. Mail your return or file electronically without entering banking information, and the IRS will mail a check to your address on file. Checks take three to four weeks or longer to arrive. Some community organizations and libraries offer check-cashing services if you don't have a bank account to deposit it into.

How long does it take for the IRS to deposit my refund after I file?

The IRS typically processes returns within 21 days of acceptance. Direct deposit refunds arrive within that window if there are no errors on your return. If the IRS needs to verify information or investigate a discrepancy, processing takes longer—sometimes several weeks or months.

Can I change my bank account after I've submitted my return?

Yes, if you file electronically and realize you entered the wrong account number before the IRS accepts your return, log into your account and update it. Once the IRS has accepted your return, you can still update your banking information in your IRS account, but if your refund has already been processed, the IRS will mail a check instead. The update will apply to future refunds.

What if the IRS deposits money into the wrong account by mistake?

Contact the IRS immediately at 1-800-829-1040 and explain the error. The IRS will investigate and work with your bank to recover the funds. Do not attempt to contact the other bank or account holder yourself. The IRS handles these disputes directly. Keep documentation of your return and the banking information you submitted as proof of the error.