You can call the IRS to change your bank account, but it works differently depending on what you're changing and why

The IRS has a phone line for taxpayers who need to update banking information, but the process depends on whether you're changing the account for a refund, a payment plan, or an ongoing issue like a wage garnishment. The main number is 1-800-829-1040, and you'll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the tax year in question. Wait times are often long, especially during tax season (January through April), so calling in the morning on a weekday increases your chances of reaching someone within a reasonable time.

For refunds specifically, you can also change your bank account information online through IRS.gov without calling, which is faster and doesn't require waiting on hold. If you're setting up a payment plan or dealing with a debt collection issue, the phone route is more reliable because those situations require a representative to access your account details and make notes in your file.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 1-800-829-1040 to update your bank account with the IRS, but have your Social Security number and tax year ready before you call.
  • For refunds only, you can update your banking information online at IRS.gov without calling, which is faster than phone support.
  • The IRS cannot change your bank account retroactively for a refund that has already been issued; if the deposit went to the wrong account, you'll need to contact that bank or file a claim with the IRS.
  • If you're on a payment plan or dealing with wage garnishment, calling is the better option because a representative needs to update your account notes.
  • Call early in the morning on a weekday to avoid the longest hold times, and expect waits of 30 minutes to over an hour during tax season.

Changing your bank account for a future refund

If you haven't yet filed your tax return and want to make sure your refund goes to a specific bank account, you can enter that information directly on your tax form (Form 1040) before you file. The routing number and account number go in the "Refund" section of the form. This is the simplest route because there's no phone call needed and no waiting for a representative.

If you've already filed and want to change where your refund should go, you can update it online through IRS.gov under "Where's My Refund?" You'll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount from your return. This tool lets you change your bank account information as long as the refund hasn't been issued yet. Once the IRS has sent the money to a bank account, they cannot recall it or redirect it—you'll need to contact the bank that received it instead.

Calling the IRS to change your account for payments or ongoing issues

If you owe taxes and have set up a payment plan, or if the IRS is collecting money from your wages or bank account through garnishment, you'll need to call to change your banking information. A representative can update your account and make sure future payments or collections go to the correct bank. Have your Social Security number, the tax year, and your new routing and account numbers ready before you call.

The same applies if you're dealing with an IRS debt and want to change the account they're pulling from. The IRS uses automated clearing house (ACH) withdrawals for payment plans and collections, so the account information needs to be accurate in their system. Calling ensures the change is documented in your file and takes effect before the next scheduled withdrawal.

What happens if your refund went to the wrong account

If the IRS already issued your refund to a bank account you no longer use or that belongs to someone else, the IRS cannot reverse the deposit. Your first step is to contact the bank where the money landed. If the account is still open and active, the bank can often return the funds to the IRS, which will then reissue your refund to the correct account. This process usually takes two to four weeks once the bank initiates the reversal.

If the account is closed or the money has been withdrawn, you'll need to file a claim with the IRS. Call 1-800-829-1040 and explain that your refund was deposited to an incorrect account. The IRS will file a report and investigate, but this process is slower—expect several weeks to several months. Keep documentation of your tax return and any correspondence with the bank as proof of the error.

Updating your account information if you owe back taxes

If the IRS is collecting on back taxes through wage garnishment or bank levy, changing your bank account won't stop the collection—but you may want to change it to prevent repeated levies on an account you use regularly. Call 1-800-829-1040 and ask to speak with a representative in the Collections division. They can update your account information in the system, though the IRS may still levy the new account if you don't resolve the underlying tax debt.

A better approach is to address the debt itself: set up a payment plan, request an Offer in Compromise (a settlement for less than you owe), or request Currently Not Collectible status if you're facing financial hardship. These actions stop or pause collection activity while you work toward a resolution. A representative can discuss these options when you call.

Online alternatives to calling

The IRS has expanded its online tools in recent years. You can create an account on IRS.gov and access "Where's My Refund?" to check the status of your return and update banking information for refunds. You can also use the IRS2Go mobile app for the same purpose. These tools work 24/7 and don't require waiting on hold.

For issues beyond refunds—payment plans, collections, or account disputes—you'll still need to call or visit a local IRS office in person. Some IRS offices have reopened for walk-in appointments, though availability varies by location. Check IRS.gov for your nearest office and whether appointments are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the IRS change my bank account if I'm receiving a refund that's already been issued?

No. Once the IRS has sent money to a bank account, they cannot redirect it. Contact the bank where the refund landed and ask them to return it. The IRS will then reissue the refund to your correct account, which usually takes two to four weeks after the bank processes the reversal.

How long does it take for a bank account change to take effect with the IRS?

If you update your information online for a future refund, it takes effect when ready. If you call to change your account for a payment plan or collection, the change is usually active within one to two business days, though it's safest to assume three to five days before the next scheduled transaction.

What if I don't know my routing number?

Your bank can provide it, or you can find it on a check from that account—the routing number is the first set of nine digits at the bottom left. You'll also need your account number, which appears after the routing number on the same line.

Do I have to call during business hours?

Yes. The IRS phone line 1-800-829-1040 operates Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. You cannot reach a representative outside these hours, though you can leave a message or try the automated "Where's My Refund?" tool anytime.

What if I can't reach anyone after multiple calls?

If you're unable to reach the IRS by phone, you can visit a local IRS office in person or send a written request to update your bank account. Include your name, Social Security number, tax year, and new banking information. Mail it to the IRS address for your state, which you can find on IRS.gov under "Contact Us."