How to Update Your Checking Account Information With the IRS

The IRS needs your current bank details to send refunds and make payments

The IRS uses your checking account information to deposit tax refunds directly into your bank and to collect payments you owe. If you've changed banks, closed an account, or moved to a different branch, you need to update those details with the IRS so money reaches the right place. The process differs depending on whether you're updating for a refund or a payment plan.

You cannot update your account information through the IRS website itself. Instead, you update it by filing a tax return with your new account details, by contacting the IRS directly, or by providing it when you set up a payment arrangement. The timing matters: if the IRS tries to deposit a refund to a closed account, the money returns to the IRS and you'll have to request it again, which adds weeks to the process.

Key Takeaways

The fastest way to update your account for a refund is to file your next tax return with the new bank details on the form itself.
If you need to update your account before filing a return, call the IRS at 800-829-1040 and have your Social Security number, filing status, and new account information ready.
For payment plans or payment arrangements, provide your updated account details when you set up the arrangement through the IRS website or by phone.
The IRS processes account updates within one to two business days after you submit them, but refunds may take longer if the original deposit failed.
If a refund was sent to a closed account, contact your bank first to see if they can retrieve it; if not, the IRS will reissue it once you request it.

Updating your account when you file your tax return

The simplest method is to include your new checking account information directly on your tax return. On Form 1040 (the main individual income tax form), there is a section labeled "Routing number" and "Account number" in the payment information area. Fill in your new bank's routing number and your account number exactly as they appear on your checks or bank statement.

If you file electronically through tax software or a tax professional, the software will ask for this information as part of the return. Make sure you select "checking account" as the account type, not savings. The IRS will use these details for any refund owed to you. This method works only if you're filing a return; if you don't file, you'll need to contact the IRS directly.

Calling the IRS to update your account before filing

If you need to update your account before you file your next return—for example, because you're expecting a refund from a prior year—call the IRS at 800-829-1040. Have ready your Social Security number, filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.), and your new bank account information (routing number and account number).

The IRS representative will verify your identity by asking questions about your tax history, then record your new account details in their system. This update typically takes effect within one to two business days. If the IRS has already attempted to deposit a refund to your old account, calling won't stop that deposit or retrieve it; you'll need to contact your bank or request a reissue from the IRS.

Updating your account for a payment plan or payment arrangement

If you owe taxes and are setting up a payment plan through the IRS, you can provide your checking account information at that time. You can set up a payment plan online through IRS.gov under "Payment Plans," by calling 800-829-1040, or through a tax professional. During setup, you'll enter your routing number and account number, and the IRS will use that account for automatic withdrawals.

The IRS offers short-term payment plans (120 days or fewer) and long-term installment agreements. For installment agreements, you can choose the withdrawal date each month, which gives you control over when the money leaves your account. Make sure the account you provide is one you plan to keep open for the duration of the plan; if you close it or change banks, contact the IRS when ready to update it again.

What happens if a refund goes to a closed account

If the IRS deposits your refund to an account you've closed, the bank will reject the deposit and return it to the IRS. This process takes two to four weeks. Once the IRS receives the returned deposit, they send you a notice by mail explaining what happened. You then have two options: contact your bank to ask if they can retrieve the funds (some banks can do this within a limited window), or request that the IRS reissue your refund.

To request a reissue, you can call the IRS at 800-829-1040 or wait for the IRS to contact you. Reissuing adds another two to three weeks to the timeline. This is why updating your account before the IRS attempts the deposit is much faster than fixing it afterward.

Updating your account if you use a tax professional or payroll service

If a tax professional prepares your return, give them your new account information before they file. They'll enter it on your Form 1040 just as you would. If you use a payroll service that handles tax withholding and deposits (such as through an employer), that service may have its own process for updating your account. Check with your payroll department or service provider about how they handle account changes, as they may not use the same IRS system.

For refunds from prior years or amended returns, make sure your tax professional knows about the account change. If you've already filed with old account information and now need to update it, the professional can help you contact the IRS or file an amended return with the new details.

Timing and what to expect after you update

Once you submit your new account information—whether through a tax return, a phone call, or a payment arrangement—the IRS records it within one to two business days. However, if you're updating for a refund that hasn't been deposited yet, the timing depends on where your return is in processing. If your return is still being processed, the IRS will use your new account details. If the return has already been processed and the refund has been sent to your old account, you cannot stop that deposit.

For payment plans, the IRS will use your new account details for the next scheduled withdrawal. If you update your account in the middle of a payment plan, confirm with the IRS that the change has taken effect before your next payment date. You can check the status of a refund or payment through IRS.gov using the "Where's My Refund?" tool, though this tool does not show account information—it only shows the status of the refund itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my account information online through the IRS website?

No. The IRS does not have a portal where you can update your account details directly. You must file a tax return with the new information, call 800-829-1040, or provide it when setting up a payment arrangement. Some third-party tax software allows you to update account information for future filings, but this does not change what the IRS has on file for prior returns.

What if I give the IRS the wrong routing number or account number?

If you provide incorrect information, the bank will reject the deposit and return it to the IRS. The IRS will then send you a notice by mail. You can then provide the correct information and request a reissue. To avoid this, double-check your routing number and account number against a blank check or your bank's website before submitting them.

Do I need to update my account if I'm getting a refund advance or loan?

Yes. Refund advance companies and tax refund loans require your current checking account information to deposit the advance or loan amount. Provide them with the same routing number and account number you would give the IRS. Make sure the account is active and in your name.

How long does it take for the IRS to use my new account information?

The IRS typically processes account updates within one to two business days. However, if you're updating for a refund that has already been sent to your old account, that deposit cannot be stopped. If you're updating for a future refund or payment, the new account will be used for that transaction.

What if my bank merged or changed its routing number?

If your bank merged or your routing number changed but you kept the same account, contact your bank to confirm your new routing number. Then update the IRS with the new routing number and your account number. Do this before the IRS attempts to deposit money, or the deposit may fail and be returned.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.