You can change your refund delivery method, but the timing and your options depend on where you are in the process
If you filed your return and chose direct deposit, you can request a paper check instead — but only before the IRS processes your return. Once the IRS has accepted your return and begun processing it, you cannot change the delivery method through the IRS. If you already received your refund by direct deposit and want it a different way next year, you can change your banking information on your next return. If your refund hasn't arrived yet and you need to switch methods now, your options are limited and depend on whether the IRS has already issued the payment.
The key constraint is timing. The IRS moves quickly once it accepts your return. Most returns are processed within 21 days of filing, and once processing starts, the delivery method is locked in. This means the window to change your mind is narrow — usually just a few days after you file.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your refund delivery method only before the IRS processes your return, which typically happens within 21 days of filing.
- If you filed electronically and want to switch from direct deposit to a check, you must contact the IRS by phone or mail before processing begins.
- Once the IRS has issued your refund — whether by direct deposit or check — you cannot change the delivery method; you must wait for the payment to arrive.
- If your direct deposit failed or was sent to the wrong account, the IRS can reissue your refund by check, but this adds 4 to 6 weeks to your timeline.
- For future years, you can change your banking information or delivery preference directly on your tax return when you file.
Changing your method before the IRS processes your return
If you filed your return electronically and selected direct deposit, but now want a paper check instead, you have a short window to request the change. You must contact the IRS before your return is processed. The IRS processes most returns within 21 days of the filing date shown on your return, so you need to act quickly — ideally within the first week after filing.
Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (individual income tax) and tell them you want to change your refund delivery method. Have your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount ready. The IRS representative can flag your return for a method change, but this only works if your return hasn't already moved into the processing queue. If processing has already started, the representative will tell you it's too late.
You can also send a written request by mail, but this is slower and riskier because mail takes time to reach the IRS and be matched to your return. If you choose to mail a request, send it to the IRS address for your state (found on the IRS website under "Where to File") and include your name, Social Security number, filing status, and a clear statement that you want to change from direct deposit to a check. Mail it as soon as possible and keep a copy for your records.
What happens if the IRS has already issued your refund
Once the IRS has processed your return and issued your refund, you cannot stop or redirect the payment. If you selected direct deposit and the refund has been issued, it will go to the bank account you listed on your return — you cannot change it mid-stream. If you selected a check and it has been issued, it will arrive by mail to your address on file.
If your direct deposit was sent to an account you no longer have access to, or if it went to the wrong account by mistake, you will need to contact the IRS to request a refund by check instead. This process takes longer: the IRS will issue a new check, which can take 4 to 6 weeks to arrive. Call 1-800-829-1040 and explain the situation. You will need to provide proof that the deposit went to the wrong account (a bank statement or letter from your bank showing the deposit was rejected or sent elsewhere).
If your check was issued but you haven't received it after 21 days, use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool on IRS.gov to confirm the check was mailed. If the tool shows the check was issued but you still don't have it after 4 weeks, call the IRS to request a replacement check. The replacement process takes another 4 to 6 weeks.
Changing your delivery method for next year's refund
The easiest time to change how you receive your refund is when you file your next return. On your tax form (Form 1040 for federal returns), you will see a section asking how you want your refund delivered. You can choose direct deposit to a bank account, direct deposit to a savings account, direct deposit to an IRA or other retirement account, or a paper check mailed to your address.
If you want direct deposit, have your bank account and routing number ready when you file. Make sure the account is in your name or jointly in your name — the IRS will not deposit to an account in someone else's name only. If you want a check, simply select that option; no additional information is needed.
If you file through a tax software program or with a tax preparer, they will ask you these questions as part of the filing process. Double-check your banking information before you submit — a typo in your account number or routing number will cause the deposit to fail, and you will have to wait for a replacement check.
State tax refunds and delivery method changes
State tax refunds follow similar rules to federal refunds, but each state has its own processing timeline and procedures. Most states process returns within 2 to 4 weeks of filing, and like the IRS, they lock in the delivery method once processing begins.
If you need to change your state refund delivery method, contact your state tax agency directly. Find the contact information on your state's tax website. Some states allow phone requests; others require written requests by mail. State processing is often faster than federal, so the window to change your method may be even narrower — sometimes just a few days.
If you filed a joint federal and state return, changing your federal delivery method does not automatically change your state method. You may need to contact your state separately to make the same change.
What to do if your refund went to the wrong account
If your direct deposit was rejected by your bank or sent to an account you didn't intend, the IRS will eventually reissue your refund by check. This does not happen automatically — you must report the problem to the IRS.
Call 1-800-829-1040 and explain that your direct deposit failed or went to the wrong account. Have your bank statement ready to show the deposit was rejected or sent elsewhere. The IRS will issue a replacement check, which takes 4 to 6 weeks to arrive. During this time, you can track the status of your replacement check using the "Where's My Refund?" tool on IRS.gov.
Some banks will reject a direct deposit if the account number or routing number is incorrect, or if the account has been closed. If you know the deposit went to the wrong account because you made a typo when filing, contact the IRS as soon as you realize the mistake. The sooner you report it, the sooner they can issue a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my refund method if I already got the money?
No. Once your refund has been delivered — whether by direct deposit or check — you cannot change how it was sent. You can only change your delivery method on your next tax return. If the refund went to the wrong place, contact the IRS to request a replacement by check, which takes 4 to 6 weeks.
What if I filed electronically but want a check instead?
Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 within the first week after filing and request a method change before your return is processed. If processing has already started, it's too late — your refund will be delivered by direct deposit as filed. You can change to a check on your next return.
How do I know if the IRS has already processed my return?
Use the "Where's My Refund?" tool on IRS.gov. If it shows your refund has been issued, processing is complete and you cannot change the delivery method. If it shows your return is still being processed, you may still have time to request a change by calling 1-800-829-1040.
Can I split my refund between a bank account and a check?
Yes. When you file your return, you can direct a portion of your refund to a bank account by direct deposit and have the remainder sent as a check. This option is available on most tax forms and through tax software. Specify the amount or percentage you want deposited and the amount you want by check.
What if my bank rejected my direct deposit?
Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 with proof from your bank showing the deposit was rejected. The IRS will issue a replacement check, which takes 4 to 6 weeks. Common reasons for rejection include a closed account, incorrect account number, or a name mismatch between your tax return and your bank account.