Direct deposit sends your refund straight to your bank account instead of waiting for a paper check
Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive a tax refund. The IRS deposits money into your bank account electronically, usually within 21 days of processing your return—often much faster. You do not need to be present to receive it, and there is no risk of a check getting lost in the mail.
To set up direct deposit, you provide your bank account number and routing number on your tax return. The IRS uses this information to send your refund electronically. You can set it up when you file your return, whether you file on paper or electronically.
Key Takeaways
- Direct deposit requires your bank account number and routing number, which you can find on a check or by calling your bank.
- You enter this information on Form 1040 (line 33a and 33b for the account number and routing number) if filing on paper, or in the corresponding fields if filing electronically.
- The IRS processes direct deposit refunds faster than paper checks, typically within 21 days but often within 7 to 10 days.
- You can track your refund status using the IRS Where's My Refund tool at irs.gov, which updates every 24 hours after your return is received.
- If you change banks or close your account before the refund arrives, contact the IRS immediately to stop the deposit and request a paper check instead.
Finding your bank account and routing numbers
Your bank account number and routing number appear on the bottom left of any check you have from that account. The routing number is the first nine digits, and your account number follows. If you do not have a check, call your bank's customer service line—they can provide both numbers in seconds.
Make sure you have the correct account type selected. Most people use a checking account, but you can direct deposit to a savings account if you prefer. Confirm with your bank which account number belongs to which type before you enter it on your return.
Entering direct deposit information on your tax return
If you file on paper using Form 1040, enter your routing number in boxes 33a and your account number in box 33b. You must also check the box that indicates the account type (checking or savings). Write clearly so the IRS can read the numbers correctly.
If you file electronically through tax software or a tax professional, the software will prompt you to enter this information in the direct deposit section. The software validates the routing number format before you submit, which catches many errors before they reach the IRS.
Double-check the numbers before submitting. A single digit wrong means the IRS cannot deposit the money, and you will receive a paper check instead—delaying your refund by weeks.
What happens after you submit your return with direct deposit
Once the IRS receives your return, it processes the direct deposit information along with everything else. This typically takes 21 days or less from the date you file. The IRS does not contact you to confirm the account details—it simply deposits the money when your refund is approved.
You can check the status of your refund using the IRS Where's My Refund tool at irs.gov. This tool updates every 24 hours and tells you whether your return has been received, is being processed, or has been approved for deposit. It also shows the expected deposit date once the refund is approved.
If you need to change your direct deposit information after filing
If you filed your return but have not yet received the refund, you can contact the IRS to change your direct deposit information. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 during business hours. Have your Social Security number, filing status, and the refund amount ready.
If your bank account has closed or you no longer have access to that account, tell the IRS immediately. They can stop the direct deposit and issue a paper check instead. The longer you wait, the more likely the money will be deposited into a closed account, and you will have to contact your bank to recover it.
If the refund has already been deposited into the wrong account, contact your bank first. Explain that a tax refund was deposited in error. Many banks can reverse the deposit and return the money to the IRS, though this process takes time.
Direct deposit for state tax refunds
Most states that have income tax also accept direct deposit for state refunds. When you file your state return, you will see a section for direct deposit information similar to the federal return. You can use the same bank account for both, or different accounts if you prefer.
State refunds process on their own timeline, separate from federal refunds. Some states deposit within 10 days; others take 4 to 6 weeks. Check your state tax agency website for the typical timeline and to track your state refund status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use direct deposit if I do not have a traditional bank account?
Yes. Many prepaid debit cards and online banks have routing numbers and account numbers. Contact your card or bank provider to get these numbers. The IRS treats them the same as a traditional bank account for direct deposit purposes.
What if the IRS deposits my refund into the wrong account?
Contact your bank immediately and explain that a tax refund was deposited in error. The bank can attempt to reverse the deposit. If that fails, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 with your Social Security number and the refund amount so they can investigate and recover the funds.
How long does direct deposit actually take?
The IRS says 21 days or less, but most direct deposits arrive within 7 to 10 days. The timeline starts when the IRS receives your return, not when you file it. Use Where's My Refund to see the expected deposit date once your return is approved.
Can I split my refund between two bank accounts?
No. Direct deposit on your tax return goes to a single account. If you want to split the refund, you would need to deposit it into one account and then transfer part of it to another account yourself after it arrives.
What if I made a mistake entering my account number?
If you catch the error before filing, correct it and resubmit. If you already filed, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 as soon as possible. They may be able to stop the deposit and reissue it to the correct account, but this depends on how far along your return is in processing.