How the IRS sends refunds by direct deposit in 2025

The IRS deposits tax refunds directly into your bank account when you choose direct deposit on your tax return. You provide your routing number and account number on the return itself — either on Form 1040 (the main tax form) or through tax software. The IRS then sends the money to your bank, which deposits it into the account you named. This is faster and more find than waiting for a paper check in the mail.

Direct deposit refunds typically arrive within 21 days of the IRS accepting your return, though many arrive sooner. The exact timing depends on when you file, whether the IRS needs to review your return, and your bank's processing speed. If you file early in the tax season (January or February), your refund may arrive within a week or two. If you file closer to the April important date or if the IRS flags your return for review, it can take the full 21 days or longer.

Key Takeaways

  • You provide your bank's routing number and your account number directly on your tax return to receive your refund by direct deposit.
  • The IRS typically deposits refunds within 21 days of accepting your return, though many arrive in one to two weeks.
  • You can check the status of your refund using the IRS Where's My Refund tool on IRS.gov, which updates once per day.
  • Direct deposit works for federal tax refunds only — state refunds, if you are owed one, may arrive separately by check or direct deposit depending on your state.
  • If you provide incorrect bank information, the IRS will reject the deposit and mail a paper check instead, which takes several weeks longer.

Where to enter your bank information on your tax return

If you file a paper Form 1040, your routing and account numbers go in the "Refund" section near the bottom of the form. The form has separate boxes for routing number and account number, and you must fill both. The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank; the account number is the number of the specific account where you want the money to go.

If you use tax software (TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, or another provider), the software walks you through a screen where you enter this information. The software usually asks which type of account it is (checking or savings) and then asks for the routing and account numbers. Double-check these numbers before you submit — the IRS cannot correct them after your return is filed.

You can find your routing number on the bottom left of any check from your account, or by calling your bank or visiting its website. Your account number appears on your checks as well, or you can log into your online banking and find it there.

How to find your routing number and account number

The easiest place to look is a check from your account. The routing number is the first set of nine digits at the bottom left of the check. The account number is the second set of digits, usually 10 to 12 digits long, that comes after the routing number.

If you do not have a check, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Most banks display your account number on the main account page or in an account details section. Some banks also show the routing number there. If you cannot find it online, call your bank's customer service line — the number is usually on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement — and ask for your routing number and account number.

Make sure you are entering the routing number for the specific branch or region where your account is held. Some large banks have different routing numbers for different states or regions. Your bank's website or a customer service representative can confirm which routing number to use.

Checking the status of your refund

The IRS provides a tool called Where's My Refund on IRS.gov. You can access it by going to IRS.gov, clicking on the "Refunds" tab, and selecting "Where's My Refund." You will need your Social Security number, filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.), and the exact refund amount from your return.

The tool updates once per day, usually overnight. If you check it multiple times in the same day, you will see the same status. The tool shows three possible statuses: "Return Received" (the IRS has your return but has not processed it yet), "Approved" (the IRS has approved your refund and it is on its way), or "Deposited" (your refund has been sent to your bank). Once it shows "Deposited," your bank should receive the money within one to two business days, though some banks post it the same day.

If the tool shows an error message or says it cannot find your return, wait a few days and try again. The IRS processes returns in the order they are received, and it can take several days for a newly filed return to appear in the system.

What happens if you enter the wrong bank information

If you provide an incorrect routing number or account number, the IRS will attempt to deposit your refund and the deposit will be rejected by the bank. When this happens, the IRS stops the direct deposit and mails a paper check to the address on your return instead. This adds several weeks to the time it takes to receive your money.

If you realize you made a mistake after filing, you cannot change the bank information on a return that has already been submitted. You have to wait for the paper check to arrive, or contact the IRS if the check does not show up within the expected timeframe. To avoid this, carefully verify your routing and account numbers before you file.

If your refund was rejected and you want to deposit it faster, you can contact the IRS at 800-829-1040 to ask about your options. The IRS may be able to reissue the refund to a corrected account, though this process can take additional time.

Direct deposit for state tax refunds

If you also file a state tax return, your state refund is separate from your federal refund. Some states offer direct deposit for state refunds, and some do not. You typically enter your state refund information on your state tax return, not your federal return. Check your state's tax agency website to see whether direct deposit is available and how to set it up.

State refunds often arrive on a different schedule than federal refunds. Your federal refund might arrive in two weeks while your state refund takes four weeks, or vice versa. Some states mail paper checks by default and do not offer direct deposit at all. If you are unsure whether your state offers direct deposit, contact your state's department of revenue or visit its website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use direct deposit if I do not have a checking account?

Yes. Direct deposit works with savings accounts as well as checking accounts. When you enter your information, you will specify whether it is a checking or savings account. Some people also use prepaid debit cards or online banking accounts that have routing and account numbers. Make sure the account is in your name or that you have permission to deposit money into it.

How long does it take for the IRS to deposit my refund after I file?

The IRS typically deposits refunds within 21 days of accepting your return. Many refunds arrive much faster — within one to two weeks — especially if you file early in the tax season. The exact timing depends on when you file, whether the IRS needs to review your return, and how quickly your bank processes the deposit.

What if my bank rejects the direct deposit?

If your bank rejects the deposit because of an incorrect account number or routing number, the IRS will mail a paper check to your address instead. This takes several weeks. To prevent this, verify your routing and account numbers carefully before you file your return.

Can I change my bank account after I file my return?

No. Once your return is filed, you cannot change the bank information. If you need to update your account, you have to wait for the refund to arrive (or be rejected), and then contact the IRS to discuss your options. It is best to verify your bank details before you submit your return.

Do I need to do anything special to receive my refund by direct deposit?

No. straightforward enter your routing number and account number on your tax return when you file. The IRS will automatically send your refund to that account. You do not need to contact your bank or take any other action — just make sure the information is correct.