Why the IRS needs your current bank details

The IRS uses your checking account information to send you refunds, tax credits, and other payments directly to your bank. If you change banks, move to a different branch, or close an account, the IRS still has your old information on file. When they try to deposit money into an account that no longer exists or belongs to someone else, the deposit fails and your money gets delayed — sometimes for months.

Updating your account details with the IRS is straightforward and takes about ten minutes. You do not need to wait for a tax return or a specific time of year. The sooner you update, the sooner the IRS can reach your correct account if they need to send you money.

Key Takeaways

  • You can update your checking account information with the IRS through your online account at IRS.gov, by mail, or by phone at 1-800-829-1040.
  • You will need your Social Security number, current mailing address, and the new checking account number and routing number from your bank.
  • Changes made online or by phone usually take effect within a few days, but mail can take several weeks.
  • If you are expecting a refund or payment, update your account information as soon as possible to avoid delays.
  • The IRS will not charge you to update your information, and you do not need a tax professional to do this yourself.

Updating your account online through IRS.gov

The fastest way to update your checking account is through your IRS online account. Go to IRS.gov and select "Sign in to your account" in the upper right corner. You will need to create a login using your Social Security number, email address, and a password, or use an existing login if you have already set one up.

Once you are signed in, look for a section labeled "Banking information" or "Direct deposit." Click on it and select the option to add or change your bank details. You will be asked to enter your new account number and routing number. Your routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank branch — you can find it on the bottom left of any check you have from that account, or by calling your bank and asking for it.

After you enter the information and submit it, the IRS will show you a confirmation screen. Write down or take a screenshot of the confirmation number. The change usually takes effect within two to three business days.

Updating by phone or mail if you do not have online access

If you do not want to create an online account or cannot access the internet, you can call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040. Have your Social Security number, current mailing address, and new account and routing number ready before you call. The wait time varies, but calling early in the morning or mid-week usually means shorter lines.

You can also mail a written request to the IRS. Write a letter that includes your full name, Social Security number, current mailing address, and your new checking account number and routing number. Mail it to the IRS office that serves your state — you can find the correct address on IRS.gov under "Contact Us." Mail updates take three to four weeks to process, so use this method only if you do not need the change to take effect quickly.

What information you need before you start

Gather these items before you update your account, whether you are doing it online, by phone, or by mail:

  • Your Social Security number
  • Your current mailing address as it appears on your last tax return
  • Your new checking account number (usually 10 to 12 digits)
  • Your new bank's routing number (nine digits)

If you are not sure of your account number or routing number, log into your online banking, call your bank's customer service line, or look at a blank check from your new account. The routing number is always on the bottom left of a check, and your account number is on the bottom center.

What happens after you update your information

Once the IRS receives your update, they will use your new account for any future payments. This includes tax refunds, the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit, and any other payments the IRS sends. If you have a pending refund or payment, updating your account now will direct it to the correct place.

If you updated online or by phone, the change takes effect within a few business days. If you mailed a letter, allow three to four weeks. If you are expecting a refund and you are not sure whether your update has been processed yet, you can check the status of your refund on IRS.gov by using the "Where's My Refund?" tool.

If you closed your account before updating the IRS

If the IRS already tried to deposit money into an account you have closed, the deposit will be returned to the IRS. This does not mean you have lost the money — it just means the process takes longer. The IRS will hold the payment and eventually mail you a check instead, which can take an additional four to six weeks.

Update your new account information with the IRS right away so that any future payments go directly to your current bank. If you are waiting for a refund that was sent to a closed account, you can check its status on IRS.gov or call 1-800-829-1040 to ask about the timeline for receiving a check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to update my account if I just switched banks but kept the same account number?

Yes. Even if your account number stayed the same, your routing number likely changed because it identifies your specific bank branch. The IRS needs both pieces of information to deposit money correctly. Update both your account number and routing number to be safe.

What if I made a mistake when I entered my account number?

You can update it again using the same method you used the first time. If you entered it online, sign back in and correct it. If you called, call again with the correct number. If you mailed a letter, send another letter with the correct information. The most recent update you send will replace the previous one.

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

Online and phone updates usually take two to three business days. Mail updates take three to four weeks. If you are expecting a refund soon, use the online or phone method to speed up the process.

Can I update my account information if I am married and file jointly?

Yes. If you file a joint return, you can update the account information for the refund. Both spouses' names do not need to be on the account — the IRS will deposit the full refund into whichever account you provide. If you and your spouse want refunds sent to different accounts, you will need to contact the IRS to discuss your options.