You can change your direct deposit details in TurboTax up until the moment you e-file, but the process and timing depend on which step of your return you're in

If you haven't filed yet, you can edit your direct deposit information directly in TurboTax by going back to the banking section of your return. The exact location varies slightly depending on whether you're using TurboTax Free, Deluxe, Premier, or Self-Employed, but the principle is the same: find the section labeled "Refund" or "How do you want your refund," then select "Direct Deposit" and update your routing number, account number, and account type. Once you've made the change, you can proceed to review and file.

If you've already filed and your return has been accepted by the IRS, you cannot change the direct deposit information through TurboTax. At that point, the IRS has locked in the banking details you submitted. Your only option is to contact the IRS directly or wait for the refund to arrive at the account you originally listed, then transfer it yourself.

Key Takeaways

  • Direct deposit changes in TurboTax must happen before you click "File" — once the IRS accepts your return, the banking information is locked in.
  • You'll need your new bank's routing number and your account number to make the change; your bank's website or a call to customer service can provide both.
  • If you filed with the wrong account and the IRS has already accepted your return, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or use the Where's My Refund tool to see your options.
  • TurboTax stores your direct deposit information in the "Refund" section of your return, which you can access and edit as long as you haven't submitted to the IRS yet.

Finding the Direct Deposit Section Before You File

In TurboTax, the direct deposit field lives in the refund section of your return. The path depends on which version you're using, but the general route is: go to "Federal Taxes" or "Taxes," then look for a section called "Refund," "How do you want your refund," or "Where should we send your refund." Click on that section and you'll see options for direct deposit, check, or (in some cases) a refund advance product.

Once you select "Direct Deposit," TurboTax will ask for three pieces of information: your routing number, your account number, and your account type (checking or savings). If you're not sure which account type you have, check your bank statements or log into your online banking portal — it will say clearly. Do not guess. An incorrect account type can cause the refund to be rejected by your bank.

You can make this change at any point before you reach the final "File" or "E-File" button. Even if you've already reviewed your return once, you can go back, click into the Refund section again, and update the information. TurboTax will not lock you out until you've actually submitted the return to the IRS.

Getting Your Routing Number and Account Number

Your routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank or credit union. Your account number is the unique identifier for your individual account at that institution. Both appear on the bottom left of your checks, but the easiest way to find them without a checkbook is to log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for account details or account information.

If you can't find them online, call your bank's customer service line — the number is on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Tell them you need your routing number and account number for a direct deposit setup. They can provide both in under a minute. Do not provide this information to anyone except TurboTax or the IRS.

What Happens If You File Before Changing Your Direct Deposit

Once you click "File" or "E-File" in TurboTax and the IRS accepts your return (which usually happens within 24 hours for e-filed returns), the direct deposit information is locked. TurboTax cannot change it, and neither can you through the IRS website. The refund will be sent to the account number you submitted, regardless of whether it was correct.

If you realize the mistake before the IRS accepts your return — typically within a few hours of filing — contact TurboTax support when ready. In rare cases, if the return hasn't been fully processed, they may be able to withdraw it and let you refile with corrected information. This is not may provide and depends on timing, but it's worth asking.

If the IRS has already accepted the return, you have two options: contact the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 and explain the error, or wait for the refund to arrive at the wrong account and ask that bank to return it. The IRS can sometimes issue a new refund to the correct account, but this process takes additional time — typically several weeks beyond the normal refund timeline.

Tracking Your Refund After You File

After you file, you can check the status of your refund using the IRS's "Where's My Refund" tool on IRS.gov. This tool shows you whether the IRS has accepted your return, whether it's being processed, and when the refund is expected to be deposited. You'll need your Social Security number, filing status, and the exact refund amount to use it.

If you see that your refund has been accepted with the wrong direct deposit information, contact the IRS as soon as possible. The sooner you report the error, the more options the IRS may have to correct it before the refund is actually sent out. Once the money has been deposited into the wrong account, recovery becomes more complicated and may require the other bank's cooperation.

Changing Direct Deposit for Future Years

When you file your next tax return, TurboTax will remember the direct deposit information you used this year and pre-fill it for you. You can change it at that time using the same process: go to the Refund section, select Direct Deposit, and enter the new routing and account numbers. This is a good time to double-check that the information is still correct, especially if you've changed banks or accounts.

If you want to change your direct deposit information with the IRS for other types of payments — such as Social Security, unemployment, or tax credits — you'll need to contact those agencies directly. TurboTax only handles direct deposit for your annual tax refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my direct deposit after TurboTax says my return was accepted?

No. Once the IRS accepts your return, the direct deposit information is final and cannot be changed through TurboTax or online. You must contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to report the error and discuss your options, which may include issuing a new refund to the correct account.

What if I entered the wrong account type — checking instead of savings?

If you haven't filed yet, go back to the Refund section in TurboTax and correct it before you file. If you've already filed and the IRS has accepted your return, contact the IRS when ready. A wrong account type can cause the bank to reject the deposit, which delays your refund by several weeks.

How long does it take for a refund to arrive after I file with direct deposit?

The IRS typically processes e-filed returns within 21 days, though many arrive faster — sometimes within a week. Direct deposit is faster than a paper check. You can track your specific refund using the IRS's Where's My Refund tool on IRS.gov.

Can I change my direct deposit to a different bank than the one I used last year?

Yes. When you file, TurboTax will pre-fill your previous year's banking information, but you can change it to any bank or credit union. Just make sure you have the correct routing number and account number for the new account before you file.

What if my bank doesn't have a routing number?

All banks and credit unions have routing numbers — it's a requirement for processing direct deposits. If you can't find it, call your bank's customer service line or check your bank's website. If you're using an online bank or a financial app like Chime or Cash App, they will provide a routing number for direct deposit purposes.