Why the IRS needs your current bank account details

The IRS uses your bank account information to deposit tax refunds directly into your account instead of mailing a check. If you've moved banks, closed an account, or changed account types, the IRS still has your old information on file. When a refund arrives, it will be sent to an account that no longer exists or belongs to someone else, and you'll have to wait weeks or months to get the money back while the IRS processes the returned deposit.

You also need current bank details on file if you've set up a payment plan with the IRS or if you're expecting a refund from an amended return. The IRS doesn't call or email to ask for updated information—they send money to whatever account is in their system. Updating it yourself prevents delays and confusion.

Key Takeaways

  • You can update your bank account through IRS.gov using your login credentials, or by calling the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040.
  • The IRS will not accept bank account changes by mail or email for security reasons, so you must use their online portal or phone line.
  • Changes made online typically take effect within 24 hours, but allow several days before a refund is expected to arrive.
  • If you've already received a returned refund, you'll need to claim it on your next tax return or contact the IRS to reissue it to your new account.

Updating your account online through IRS.gov

Go to IRS.gov and sign in to your account using your username and password. If you don't have an account, you'll need to create one using your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status. The IRS uses this login to verify your identity before allowing any changes to your account.

Once logged in, look for the section labeled "Banking Information" or "Direct Deposit" under your account settings. You'll enter your new bank's routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies your bank) and your account number. Double-check both numbers against a blank check or your bank's website—a single digit wrong will send your refund to the wrong place. Select whether the account is checking or savings, then save your changes.

The system will confirm the update immediately. Your new information is active within 24 hours, though the IRS recommends waiting at least three to five business days before a refund is expected to arrive, just to be safe.

Updating your account by phone

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, filing status, and the new routing and account numbers ready before you call. Wait times are often long, especially during tax season (January through April), so consider calling early in the day or later in the week if possible.

The IRS representative will verify your identity by asking questions only you would know, such as details from your last tax return. Once verified, they'll update your banking information in their system and give you a confirmation number. Write down this number for your records. The change takes effect the same day, though again, allow several days before expecting a refund to arrive.

What happens if your refund was already sent to the old account

If the IRS deposited your refund into a closed account or an account you no longer control, the bank will reject the deposit and return it to the IRS. This process takes 10 to 14 business days. Once the IRS receives the returned deposit, they'll hold it for up to 120 days while they try to contact you. If you don't respond, they'll mail you a check instead.

You can speed this up by contacting the IRS directly. Call 1-800-829-1040 and explain that your refund was returned. Provide your new bank account information, and the IRS can reissue the refund to your new account. This is faster than waiting for a check to arrive by mail. Keep your confirmation number from this call.

Updating your account after a name change

If you've changed your legal name since your last tax return (through marriage, divorce, or legal petition), you need to update your name with the IRS before updating your bank account. The name on your tax return must match the name on your bank account, or the deposit will be rejected.

Update your name through your IRS.gov account or by calling 1-800-829-1040. You may need to provide a copy of the legal document proving the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Once your name is updated in the IRS system, then update your bank account information using the steps above.

Protecting yourself from fraud when updating account information

The IRS will never contact you first asking for your bank account information. If someone calls, emails, or texts claiming to be from the IRS and asking for banking details, it's a scam. Hang up or delete the message immediately. The real IRS only accepts banking information updates through IRS.gov or through their official phone line (1-800-829-1040), which you initiate yourself.

When you update your information online, make sure you're on the real IRS website (IRS.gov, not a lookalike domain). Look for the padlock icon in your browser's address bar, which means the connection is encrypted. Never share your IRS login credentials with anyone, even if they claim to work for the IRS or your bank.

Timing: when to update before a refund arrives

If you know a refund is coming, update your bank account as soon as possible—ideally at least one week before you expect the deposit. The IRS processes refunds in batches, and your new information needs to be in their system before your refund batch is processed. If you update your account after your refund has already been sent, it's too late to redirect it, and you'll have to wait for the returned deposit process.

If you're unsure when your refund will arrive, check the status on IRS.gov using the "Where's My Refund?" tool. This tool shows you the expected deposit date. Once you see a date, make sure your bank account information is updated at least five business days before that date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my bank account information by mail or fax?

No. The IRS only accepts banking information updates through IRS.gov or by phone at 1-800-829-1040. They don't accept changes by mail, fax, or email because these methods can't verify your identity securely enough to prevent fraud.

What if I don't have an IRS.gov account?

You can create one using your Social Security number, date of birth, and filing status. You'll also need a valid email address and a phone number. Alternatively, call 1-800-829-1040 to update your information over the phone without creating an account.

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

Changes take effect within 24 hours online or the same day by phone. However, the IRS recommends waiting three to five business days before a refund is expected to arrive to ensure the new information has fully processed through their system.

What if I entered the wrong routing or account number?

Log back into IRS.gov or call 1-800-829-1040 to correct it immediately. If a refund has already been sent to the wrong account, the bank will reject it and return it to the IRS within 10 to 14 business days. Contact the IRS to reissue the refund to the correct account.

Do I need to update my bank account every year?

Only if your account information has changed. If you still have the same account at the same bank, you don't need to update anything. The IRS keeps your information on file from year to year unless you change it.