Yes, TurboTax lets you split your refund into two accounts during filing
TurboTax allows you to direct your federal tax refund to two separate bank accounts in the same return. You choose the split amount — for example, $1,500 to checking and $500 to savings — and both deposits happen at the same time. This is a feature built into the IRS Form 1040, so the IRS processes it directly; TurboTax is just the tool you use to enter the account details.
The split refund option works only for your federal return. State refunds cannot be split in TurboTax, though some states allow splits through their own tax portals after you file. Both accounts must be in your name — you cannot split a refund between your account and someone else's.
Key Takeaways
- TurboTax lets you split your federal refund between two of your own bank accounts, with the IRS depositing both amounts on the same day.
- You enter the routing number and account number for each account during the refund section of your return, and you decide how much goes to each one.
- State tax refunds cannot be split through TurboTax, though some states offer splits through their own filing systems.
- Both accounts must be in your name only; you cannot split a refund to a joint account or someone else's account.
- The IRS typically deposits split refunds within 21 days of accepting your return, though the exact timing depends on your bank.
Where to find the split refund option in TurboTax
The split refund screen appears in the "Refund" section of TurboTax, after you have entered your income and deductions. TurboTax walks you through the steps: it first asks whether you want to split your refund, then asks for the routing number and account number of your first account, then the routing number and account number of your second account, and finally how much of your total refund should go to each one.
You can find your routing number on the bottom left of any check from that account, or by calling your bank. Your account number is on the bottom right of your check, or you can log into your online banking to find it. Have both pieces of information ready before you start the refund section.
If you are using TurboTax online, the refund section is clearly labeled and appears after you finish entering your tax information. If you are using TurboTax software on your computer, the same section appears in the same order. The steps are identical in both versions.
How the IRS processes a split refund
When you file your return with a split refund, the IRS receives both account numbers and the split amount. The IRS does not deposit to one account first and then the other — both deposits happen on the same day, usually within 21 days of the IRS accepting your return. If your return is accepted on a Friday, the deposits may not hit until the following week, depending on your bank's processing schedule.
The IRS sends you a confirmation number for your return. You can use that number to track your refund status on the IRS website at Where's My Refund (irs.gov/refunds). The tracking tool shows you the status of your entire refund, not each deposit separately, so you will see one refund amount listed — but both accounts will receive their portions on the same day.
If one of the accounts you listed is closed or incorrect, the IRS will attempt to deposit to that account and the deposit will be rejected. The IRS will then mail you a check for that portion of the refund, which can take an additional two to three weeks. This is why it is critical to double-check your routing and account numbers before you file.
What to do if you make a mistake with your account numbers
If you discover an error in your account numbers after you have filed but before the IRS has deposited your refund, you can contact the IRS directly. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and have your Social Security number and the confirmation number from your return ready. The IRS can update your account information if your return has not yet been processed, but once the return is accepted, changes become much harder.
If the IRS has already attempted a deposit to a wrong account, that deposit will be rejected by the bank and returned to the IRS. The IRS will then mail you a check for the full amount or the portion that was rejected. This process takes additional time — typically two to three weeks after the rejected deposit. To avoid this, verify your routing and account numbers with your bank before you file.
If you filed your return and later realize you want to change the split amount or move money to different accounts, you cannot amend the split through TurboTax. You would need to contact the IRS directly to request a change, and the IRS can only make changes before your return is accepted. Once accepted, you cannot change where the money goes.
State tax refunds and splitting options
TurboTax does not offer a split refund option for state taxes. Your state refund, if you are owed one, will be deposited to a single account that you designate during the state portion of your return. Some states — including California, New York, and Texas — allow you to split your state refund through their own tax filing systems or portals, but you would need to file through those systems or request the split separately after filing through TurboTax.
If you want to split your state refund, check your state's tax agency website to see whether they offer that option. Some states process splits the same way the IRS does (both deposits on the same day), while others require you to request the split after your return is accepted. A few states do not offer splits at all.
Timing: when your split refund will arrive
The IRS typically deposits refunds within 21 days of accepting your return. If you file early in the tax season (January or February), your refund may arrive faster because the IRS is processing fewer returns. If you file closer to the April deadline, processing can take the full 21 days or longer.
Once the IRS deposits the money, your bank's processing time determines when you see it in your account. Most banks post direct deposits within one business day, but some take up to two business days. If you file on a Thursday and the IRS deposits on Friday, you may not see the money until Monday or Tuesday, depending on your bank.
You can check the status of your refund using the IRS's Where's My Refund tool. Enter your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount shown on your return. The tool updates once per day and will tell you whether your refund has been accepted, is being processed, or has been sent to your bank.
Common mistakes to avoid when splitting your refund
The most common error is transposing digits in the routing or account number. A single wrong digit will cause that deposit to be rejected, and you will receive a check instead. Before you file, log into both bank accounts online or call both banks to confirm the routing and account numbers you are entering. Write them down and read them back to yourself twice.
Another mistake is trying to split a refund to an account that is not in your name. The IRS requires both accounts to be in your name only. If you want to give money to a spouse or family member, you must deposit the full refund to your account first, then transfer the money to them after the deposit clears.
Some people also forget that the split refund option is only for federal returns. If you are expecting a state refund and want to split it, you need to handle that separately through your state's tax system. TurboTax will not split your state refund, and the IRS cannot split a state refund for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I split my refund between a checking account and a savings account at different banks?
Yes. The two accounts do not have to be at the same bank. You just need the routing number for each bank and the account number for each account. Both deposits will happen on the same day, regardless of which banks they go to.
What happens if one of my accounts is closed by the time the IRS tries to deposit?
The deposit to the closed account will be rejected by the bank. The IRS will then mail you a check for that portion of your refund, which takes an additional two to three weeks. The other deposit (to the open account) will go through normally.
Can I split my refund three ways or more?
No. TurboTax and the IRS only allow splits between two accounts. If you need the money in three or more places, deposit the full refund to one account and then transfer portions to the other accounts after the deposit clears.
Do I have to split my refund, or can I just send it all to one account?
You do not have to split it. If you want your entire refund in one account, just enter that account's information and leave the split option blank. TurboTax will deposit the full amount to that single account.
Can I change my mind about the split after I file but before the IRS deposits the money?
Only if your return has not yet been accepted by the IRS. Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 with your Social Security number and return confirmation number, and they can update your account information. Once your return is accepted, you cannot change the split.