How to Change Direct Deposit on TurboTax
If you need to change your direct deposit information on TurboTax, follow the step-by-step directions given below.
1. Log in to your TurboTax Account
To access your account, login with your username and password. If you do not remember your login credentials, TurboTax provides account recovery options.
2. Select the “My Account” tab
On the main page, look for the ‘navigation’ menu on the top and click on the “My Account” option in this menu.
3. Go to the “Direct Deposit” page
Under the “My Account” section, you will see a list of options to manage your TurboTax account.
Look for an option that reads ‘refund’ or ‘payment.’ Within the section, click on the “Direct Deposit” option to manage the direct deposit information.
4. Choose the “Edit” button
Once you click the “Direct Deposit” option, you will be redirected to a new page to edit/add your latest bank account information.
5. Enter your new banking information
The page will prompt you to enter all the necessary information related to your direct deposit, such as your account number, routing number, account type, etc.
6. Verify your new bank account details
As a part of the account setup process, TurboTax might send you a verification code via email or text. At times, test deposits of a few cents are sent for account validation.
7. Review and confirm the changes
To ensure the accuracy of the new direct deposit information, TurboTax will prompt you to review and confirm the changes before submitting the new information.
8. Submit the changes to TurboTax
After reviewing all the information, you can submit the changes. You will find a ‘continue’ or ‘confirm’ button on the screen to submit the changes.
9. Follow the instructions to complete the process
If any information is lacking or missing, TurboTax will guide you to provide the same to complete the process.
10. Confirm the new direct deposit information
Once you successfully submit your new direct deposit information, TurboTax will send you an update confirming the changes.
What are the Benefits of Direct Deposit on TurboTax?
There are several benefits of using direct deposit on TurboTax, which are discussed below:
Reduces risk of fraud
Even though no method is 100% foolproof, the use of direct deposit on TurboTax mitigates the risk of fraud to a great extent. It’s more secure than a paper check because funds are transferred electronically.
Faster processing time
With direct deposit, your refund will be available for use faster than any other mode of payment because the money will be transferred directly to your account. You will also have a clear record of everything.
No bank visits
Once you update your direct deposit on TurboTax, you will get the tax refund deposited directly into your account. So, there’s no need to visit a bank or ATM to deposit a paper check.
Safe during travel
Physical checks can get lost when we are not available at our regular mailing address. By opting for direct deposits, you will receive the funds securely even when you are away from your mailing address.
No mail delivery dependency
Physical refund checks can sometimes take a long time to arrive due to unforeseen circumstances. Paper checks can also get lost or misplaced during transit. With direct deposits, you won’t run into such issues.
What Do You Need to Set Up Direct Deposit on TurboTax?
You will need to provide a few personal and financial information to set up direct deposit on TurboTax, which are as follows:
- Full name
- Social Security Number
- Email address
- Bank account details
What Are the Limitations of Direct Deposit on TurboTax?
There are certain limitations regarding the use of direct deposit on TurboTax, which are discussed below.
- If the return is already filed, you will have to go through additional steps to change your direct deposit information.
- If you happen to provide incorrect information, your refund will get delayed.
- Some banks may also charge fees for receiving tax refunds through direct deposits.
- The TurboTax security procedures require one to go through additional verification steps.
What is the Difference Between Electronic Filing and Direct Deposit?
Both processes involve electronic methods to streamline tax-related procedures. Electronic filing is a process of filing your tax electronically, which is submitted to the IRS. It’s faster than filing a paper return.
With respect to tax refunds, you can receive the refund amount through a physical paper check or directly into your bank account. Direct deposit lets you receive the tax refund electronically into your designated bank account.
What is the Difference Between Tax Refund and Tax Return?
A tax return is a form you send to the IRS to report your financial information. It shows how much you earned in a financial year and how much you owe towards taxes to the government.
A tax refund is the amount the government pays you back for excessive payment towards taxes. It’s normally issued after you file your tax returns.
What Are the Other Ways to Receive Your Tax Refund?
Other than direct deposit, you can receive your tax refund through a paper check or prepaid debit card. The tax refund can also be used to purchase U.S. Saving Bonds. Furthermore, you can apply the tax refund to next year’s taxes.
While filing taxes using tax software or through a tax professional, you can donate the full amount or a portion of the tax refund amount to qualified charitable organizations set by the IRS. You will most likely receive some tax benefits out of your donation.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Tax Refund Through Direct Deposit?
The refund processing time can vary based on the accuracy of the submitted information and the volume of the tax returns processed by the IRS during peak tax filing months.
Usually, direct deposit tax refunds are processed within 21 days of your IT return being accepted. The processing time for physical paper checks is much longer. Therefore, direct deposits are suggested for faster refund processing.