You can change your refund bank account through the IRS website, by mail, or by phone — but the method depends on whether you've already filed your return

The IRS lets you change where your refund lands, but the timing matters. If you haven't filed yet, you control the bank account information on your return itself. If you've already filed, you can update it through the IRS's online tool, by calling their phone line, or by mailing a form — though not all methods work for all situations.

The fastest route for most people is the IRS's online tool, which works if your return has been accepted and processed. Phone and mail are slower but sometimes necessary if you're changing to a different bank type or if the online tool won't accept your new account details.

Key Takeaways

  • Before you file, you control the bank account on your return — just enter the correct routing and account numbers when you prepare your return.
  • After you file, use the IRS's online refund update tool at irs.gov if your return has been accepted and you're changing to a different account at the same bank type.
  • Calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 works for changes after filing, but wait times are long and you'll need your Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount ready.
  • Mailing Form 8453 or a signed letter works when the online tool won't accept your new account, but takes four to six weeks longer than other methods.
  • The IRS cannot process a change to a different person's bank account, even with written permission — the refund must go to the person whose name is on the return.

Changing your account before you file your return

If you haven't filed yet, the simplest step is to enter the correct bank account information when you prepare your return. You'll need your routing number and account number from your bank. The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank branch; your account number is unique to your account at that bank.

When you use tax software or work with a tax preparer, they'll ask for these numbers in the section about direct deposit or refund method. Double-check both numbers before you submit — the IRS processes what you file, and a wrong number means your refund goes to the wrong account or bounces back, delaying your money by weeks.

If you're unsure of your routing number, log into your bank's website or app, call the bank's customer service line, or look at a check from that account — the routing number is printed on the bottom left of the check.

Using the IRS online tool after you've filed

The IRS's online refund update tool is the fastest way to change your account after filing. You can find it at irs.gov under "Where's My Refund?" — the same tool that tracks your refund status. The tool works only if your return has been accepted by the IRS, which usually happens within 24 hours of filing electronically.

To use it, you'll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount from your return. The tool will let you change your bank account information if you're switching to a different account at the same type of bank (for example, from one checking account to another checking account). If you're changing from a checking account to a savings account, or to a completely different bank, the online tool may not work — you'll need to call or mail instead.

Changes made through the online tool take effect within one business day. If your refund has already been sent to the old account, you cannot recall it through this tool — you'll need to contact your bank directly to reverse the deposit or ask the bank to send it to your new account.

Calling the IRS to change your account

You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to request a refund account change. The line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in your local time zone. Have your Social Security number, filing status, the exact refund amount, your old bank account number, and your new bank account number and routing number ready before you call.

Wait times are typically long, especially during tax season (January through April). The IRS agent will verify your identity, confirm your return information, and update your account in their system. The change usually takes effect within one business day, though it can take up to three business days during peak season.

This method works for any type of account change — checking to savings, one bank to another, or any combination. However, the IRS cannot change your refund to a different person's account, even if you have their permission. The refund must go to the person whose name is on the tax return.

Mailing a form or letter to the IRS

If the online tool won't work and you can't reach the IRS by phone, you can mail a written request. You have two options: mail Form 8453 (the IRS form for this purpose) or mail a signed letter with your request.

If you mail a letter, include your full name, Social Security number, filing status, the tax year, your old bank account number and routing number, your new bank account number and routing number, and the exact refund amount. Sign and date the letter, then mail it to the IRS address for your state — you can find the correct address at irs.gov under "Where to File."

Mailed requests take four to six weeks to process, sometimes longer during tax season. The IRS will send you a confirmation letter once the change is complete. This method is slower but works when other options have failed or when you're changing to an account type the online tool won't accept.

What happens if your refund has already been deposited

If your refund has already landed in your old bank account, the IRS cannot recall it. You'll need to contact your bank directly to handle the situation. Some banks will reverse the deposit if you ask quickly (usually within a few days), though this is not may provide. Other banks will require you to transfer the money yourself to your new account.

If you believe the deposit was made to the wrong account entirely — not your old account, but someone else's account — contact the IRS when ready at 1-800-829-1040 and your bank's fraud department. The IRS can investigate, but this process takes weeks.

Common mistakes that delay changes

The most common error is entering the wrong routing or account number. If you're unsure, verify both numbers with your bank before submitting any change. A single digit wrong means the IRS sends your refund to a different account, and you'll have to start the process over.

Another frequent mistake is trying to change your refund to someone else's account. The IRS will reject this request — the refund must go to the person whose name is on the return. If you need someone else to receive the money, you'll have to transfer it yourself after it arrives in your account.

Waiting until the last minute to change your account can also cause problems. If you file in April and try to change your account in May, your refund may have already been processed and sent. The earlier you make the change, the more likely it is to take effect before your refund is issued.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my refund to go to a savings account instead of checking?

Yes, but the method depends on when you make the change. Before filing, just enter your savings account number when you prepare your return. After filing, the online tool may not work for this type of change — call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or mail a signed letter instead. Both phone and mail methods handle savings account changes without issue.

What if I entered the wrong bank account number and my refund already went there?

Contact your bank when ready and explain the situation. Some banks will reverse the deposit or help you retrieve it, though they're not required to. If the account belongs to someone else, your bank's fraud department can investigate. You can also contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to report the error, though they cannot recall a deposit that's already been made.

How long does it take for a refund change to go into effect?

Changes made through the online tool or by phone usually take effect within one business day, sometimes up to three during tax season. Mailed requests take four to six weeks. If your refund has already been issued before the change takes effect, it will go to your old account — the change won't stop a refund that's already in process.

Can I change my refund to my spouse's bank account?

No. The IRS will not send a refund to anyone other than the person whose name is on the return. If you file jointly and want the refund split between two accounts, you can do that when you file — but both accounts must be in the names of the people on the return. After filing, you cannot change it to a third person's account.

What if the IRS website says my refund was issued but I haven't received it?

Wait three to five business days after the IRS says it was issued — deposits sometimes take longer to appear in your account. If it doesn't arrive after that time, contact your bank to confirm they received the deposit. If your bank has no record of it, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 with your refund tracking number (from the "Where's My Refund?" tool) to investigate where it went.