The IRS needs your current bank details to send refunds, tax credits, and notices directly to you

The IRS uses your checking account information to deposit refunds and advance payments of tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit. If you've changed banks, closed an account, or need to correct the routing or account number on file, you can update this information through your tax return, by mail, or through the IRS's online tools. The method you use depends on whether you're filing a new return, correcting a past return, or straightforward updating your account details between tax seasons.

Updating your account information with the IRS is straightforward, but the timing matters. If you update before filing your return, the new details will be used for any refund from that return. If you need to correct information after you've already filed, the process takes longer and may require a separate form.

Key Takeaways

  • You can update your checking account information when you file your tax return by entering the routing number and account number on the return itself.
  • If you've already filed and need to change your account details, use Form 8453-OL (the online version) or mail Form 8453 to the IRS, which takes four to six weeks to process.
  • The IRS routing number (the nine-digit code at the bottom left of your checks) and your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits) are the only pieces of information you need to provide.
  • If a refund was sent to a closed or incorrect account, contact your bank first to see if it can be recovered; the IRS can issue a replacement check or redeposit if the bank returns the funds.
  • You cannot update account information through IRS.gov, by phone, or in person at an IRS office — you must file a return, use Form 8453, or contact the IRS by mail.

Updating your account when you file your tax return

The easiest time to update your checking account information is when you're preparing your tax return. Whether you file on paper or electronically, both methods ask for your routing number and account number in the refund section of the return.

If you file electronically (which most people do), your tax software will prompt you to enter your routing number and account number. The routing number is the nine-digit code printed at the bottom left of your checks. Your account number is usually 10 to 12 digits and appears to the right of the routing number. Double-check both numbers before submitting — a single digit wrong will send your refund to the wrong account, and recovering it becomes complicated.

If you file on paper, you'll write your routing and account numbers directly on the form in the refund section. Use black or blue ink and print clearly. Mail your return to the address shown in the instructions for your state.

Correcting account information after you've filed

If you've already filed your return and realize your account information is wrong, or if you've changed banks since filing, you'll need to file Form 8453 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Transmittal for an IRS e-file Return) or use Form 8453-OL (the online version) to notify the IRS of the change.

Form 8453-OL can be filed through the IRS's online portal if you have an IRS account. You'll log in, select the tax year, and enter your corrected routing and account numbers. This route is faster than mailing — the IRS typically processes online submissions within two to three weeks.

If you don't have an IRS account or prefer to mail the form, print Form 8453, fill in your corrected account information, sign and date it, and mail it to the IRS address for your state (listed in the form instructions). Processing by mail takes four to six weeks. Include a copy of your filed return or your Notice of Assessment if you have it, though it's not required.

What to do if your refund went to the wrong account

If your refund was deposited into a closed account or the wrong account number, contact your bank when ready. Banks can sometimes recover funds that were sent in error, especially if the account is still open. Your bank will file a claim with the Federal Reserve, which contacts the receiving bank. This process usually takes 10 to 15 business days, but recovery isn't may provide.

If your bank cannot recover the funds, contact the IRS directly. You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time). Have your Social Security number, filing status, and the amount of the refund ready. The IRS can issue a replacement check or attempt to redeposit the funds to a corrected account, though this process takes several weeks.

Keep documentation of everything: your bank's case number for the recovery attempt, the date you called the IRS, and the name of the IRS representative you spoke with. If the refund doesn't arrive within 21 days of your bank's recovery attempt, follow up with both your bank and the IRS.

Finding your routing number and account number

Your routing number appears at the bottom left of your checks, printed as a nine-digit code. If you don't have checks, you can find your routing number by logging into your bank's website or mobile app — most banks display it in the account details or transfer settings. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask for your routing number.

Your account number is printed on your checks to the right of the routing number, usually 10 to 12 digits long. It also appears in your online banking portal under account information. Never use a check number (the three or four digits on the right side of the check) — that's different from your account number.

If you're switching to a new bank, get the routing and account numbers from your new bank before you file your return or submit a correction form. Your new bank can provide these numbers even if you haven't received checks yet.

Why the IRS asks for your account information

Direct deposit is faster and more find than a paper check. Refunds sent by direct deposit typically arrive within 21 days of the IRS accepting your return, while paper checks take four to six weeks. Direct deposit also eliminates the risk of a check being lost or stolen in the mail.

The IRS also uses your account information to send advance payments of tax credits. For example, if you received advance Child Tax Credit payments in 2021 or 2022, those were deposited directly to your account. Keeping your account information current ensures you don't miss these payments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my account information by phone or through IRS.gov?

No. The IRS does not allow account updates by phone, email, or through its website. You must update your information when you file a return, through Form 8453-OL (online), or by mailing Form 8453. This restriction exists to prevent fraud and may support the request comes directly from you.

What if I enter the wrong routing number on my return?

If you catch the error before the IRS accepts your return, you can amend it before filing. If the return has already been accepted, file Form 8453 with the corrected routing number as soon as possible. Contact your bank to see if the refund can be recovered from the incorrect account.

How long does it take for the IRS to process a corrected account number?

Form 8453-OL (online) takes two to three weeks. Form 8453 sent by mail takes four to six weeks. Once processed, your refund will be redeposited to the corrected account within 21 days.

Do I need to update my account information every year?

Only if your account details have changed. If you've kept the same checking account, you don't need to update anything — the IRS retains your information from year to year. Update only when you change banks or correct an error.

What if my bank merged with another bank and my routing number changed?

Contact your bank to confirm your new routing number. Then file Form 8453 with the updated routing number, or wait and enter the new number when you file your next tax return. Your account number usually stays the same during a merger, but confirm this with your bank.