Yes, you can update your bank account with the IRS, and you should do it if your account details have changed

The IRS keeps your bank account information on file so they can deposit tax refunds directly to your account instead of mailing a check. If you've closed that account, switched banks, or opened a new one, you need to update the IRS with your current details. The IRS does not automatically pull your information from your bank — you have to tell them.

You have three main ways to update your account: through your online IRS account, by mail with Form 8888, or by calling the IRS directly. The fastest route is your online account if you have one set up. If you don't, creating one takes about 10 minutes and lets you update your information immediately.

Key Takeaways

  • You can update your bank account online through your IRS account, by phone at 1-800-829-1040, or by mailing Form 8888 to the IRS.
  • If you update your account before filing your tax return, the refund will go to your new account; if you update after filing, the change may not take effect in time for that year's refund.
  • The IRS keeps your account information confidential and uses it only for direct deposit of refunds and tax payments you authorize.
  • If a refund was already sent to a closed account, contact your old bank to see if they can redirect it, or file Form 3911 with the IRS to request a check instead.

Creating an IRS online account to update your information

The fastest way to update your bank account is through your IRS online account, which you can access at irs.gov. Click "Sign in" and select either "Create an account" or log in if you already have one. You'll need to verify your identity using your Social Security number, date of birth, filing status, and either your prior-year tax return or a credit card on file.

Once you're logged in, look for "Banking information" or "Direct deposit" in your account dashboard. Enter your new routing number (the nine-digit code for your bank) and account number. The IRS will ask whether this is a checking or savings account. Save your changes. The update takes effect immediately in your account, though the IRS may take a few days to process it on their end.

If you don't have an online account yet, creating one is free and takes about 10 minutes. You don't need to wait until tax time — you can set it up anytime. Having an account also lets you check the status of a refund, see what the IRS has on file for you, and make changes to your information year-round.

Updating by phone or by mail if you don't have an online account

If you prefer not to use an online account, you can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time). Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and new bank account information ready. The IRS representative will update your account over the phone and confirm the change before you hang up.

You can also mail Form 8888 (Allocation of Refund) to the IRS. This form lets you direct your refund to a specific bank account. Fill in your personal information, your new routing number and account number, and the amount of your refund you want deposited there. Mail it to the IRS address for your state (listed on the form itself). Processing by mail takes two to four weeks, so this method is slower than calling or using your online account.

If you're filing a tax return and want your refund to go to your new account, include your updated banking information on the return itself. The IRS will use whatever account details appear on your filed return, so updating beforehand ensures the information is correct.

What happens if your refund was sent to a closed account

If the IRS deposited your refund to an account you've since closed, the money doesn't disappear — but you need to act quickly. Contact your old bank and explain that a federal refund was deposited after you closed the account. Many banks will hold the deposit for a set period (often 30 to 90 days) and can redirect it to your new account if you provide your new routing and account numbers.

If your old bank cannot redirect the deposit or the holding period has passed, file Form 3911 (Taxpayer Statement Regarding Refund) with the IRS. This form tells the IRS that your refund went to the wrong account and requests that they issue a check instead. Mail the form to the IRS address for your state. Processing takes four to six weeks, and the IRS will mail you a check for the refund amount.

Do not assume the money is lost. The IRS tracks unclaimed refunds, and you can claim yours even years later. If you're unsure whether a refund was sent to a closed account, check your IRS account online or call 1-800-829-1040 to see the status of your refund.

Timing matters: updating before or after you file

If you update your bank account before you file your tax return, the IRS will use your new account information when they process your return and deposit your refund. This is the cleanest scenario and takes the guesswork out of where your money goes.

If you update your account after you've already filed, the change may not take effect in time for that year's refund. The IRS processes returns and refunds on a schedule, and once your return is in the system, your account information is locked in. If you filed with an old account number and then update it, your refund will likely still go to the old account. In that case, use Form 3911 to request a check instead.

For future years, updating your account anytime during the year ensures your information is current. You don't have to wait until tax season to make changes.

Security and privacy of your banking information

The IRS keeps your bank account information confidential under federal law. They use it only to deposit refunds you're owed and to collect payments you authorize (such as installment plans or tax payments). Your routing and account numbers are not shared with other agencies or third parties without your written consent.

When you update your information online, the IRS website uses encryption to protect your data. When you call or mail a form, the IRS processes it through secure channels. If you're concerned about identity theft or fraud, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to add an extra layer of protection to your accounts.

What to do if you're unsure about your current account information on file

If you're not certain what bank account the IRS has on file for you, log into your IRS account online and check your profile. Your account dashboard will show the routing and account numbers the IRS currently has. If the information is outdated or incorrect, update it immediately using the steps above.

If you don't have an online account and want to verify your information before updating it, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. The representative can tell you what account details are in the system and help you update them on the spot. This is especially useful if you've had multiple accounts over the years and want to confirm which one is listed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for the IRS to process a bank account update?

Updates made through your online IRS account take effect immediately in your account, though the IRS may take a few days to process it internally. Phone updates are processed the same day. Mail updates take two to four weeks. If you're expecting a refund soon, update your account online or by phone rather than by mail.

Can I update my bank account if I owe taxes instead of getting a refund?

Yes. Updating your bank account information is useful even if you owe taxes, because it lets the IRS set up automatic payments from your account if you enter into a payment plan. You can also authorize one-time payments to be drawn from your account. The process is the same as updating for a refund.

What if I don't have a routing number or account number handy?

Your routing number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it on your bank's website or by calling your bank directly. Your account number is also on your checks (bottom center) or available through your online banking portal. If you're updating by phone with the IRS, the representative can wait while you gather this information.

Do I need to update my account every year?

No. Once you update your account with the IRS, the information stays on file unless you close that account or switch banks. If your account details don't change, you don't need to update anything. Update only when you open a new account or close an existing one.

What if the IRS deposited money to my account by mistake?

If you receive a deposit from the IRS that you believe is an error, do not spend the money. Contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to report it. The IRS may ask you to return the funds, or they may correct the error on their end. Keeping the money when you know it was sent in error can result in penalties and interest.