Have you ever filed your taxes with TurboTax, hit "submit," and then realized you really wanted to receive your refund differently? Perhaps you chose a direct deposit but now prefer a paper check, or maybe you entered the wrong bank account details. It's a common concern, and while the options for changing your refund method after filing are limited, understanding the process before and immediately after filing is key.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about changing your refund method on TurboTax, with clear, step-by-step instructions to help you navigate the process.
Changing Your Refund Method on TurboTax: A Step-by-Step Guide
The ability to change your refund method largely depends on the status of your tax return. Let's break it down.
Step 1: Assess Your Return's Status – Have You Filed Yet?
This is the most crucial question! Your options for changing your refund method are drastically different depending on whether your return has been filed or not.
Scenario A: You Haven't Filed Your Return Yet! (The Easiest Path) If you're still working on your return in TurboTax and haven't hit that "File" button, congratulations! You're in the best position to make changes. This is the ideal scenario, as it's straightforward and won't involve any complex amendments.
Scenario B: You've Filed Your Return, But It Hasn't Been Accepted Yet (Pending Status) You've submitted your return electronically, but the IRS (or your state tax authority) hasn't officially accepted it. It's currently in a "pending" status. This window of time is extremely limited, and direct changes to your refund method via TurboTax are generally not possible during this phase.
Scenario C: Your Return Was Filed and Rejected by the IRS/State (A Second Chance!) Sometimes, e-filed returns get rejected due to errors (e.g., incorrect Social Security Number, AGI mismatch). If your return is rejected, you get a chance to correct the errors and re-submit. This also provides a unique opportunity to adjust your refund method.
Scenario D: Your Return Was Filed and Accepted by the IRS/State (The Most Challenging Scenario) This is where things become very difficult to change. Once your return has been accepted, the IRS or state tax authority has your refund instructions. Changing it at this point is generally not possible directly through TurboTax or by contacting the tax authority to "reroute" your refund.
Let's dive into the specifics for each scenario.
Step 2: Changing Your Refund Method Before Filing (Scenario A)
If you're still in the preparation phase on TurboTax, changing your refund method is a breeze.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Online Users
Log In and Open Your Return: Sign in to your TurboTax account and open the tax return you are currently working on.
Navigate to the "File" Section: On the left-hand menu, locate and click on "File."
Revisit Your Refund Info: Look for "Step 2: Your refund info" and select the "Revisit" option next to it.
Choose Your Desired Method: You'll be presented with various refund options, such as:
Direct Deposit: This is generally the fastest way to receive your refund. If you choose this, you'll need to enter your bank's routing number and your account number. Double-check these numbers carefully!
Paper Check: Your refund will be mailed to the address on your tax return. This takes longer than direct deposit.
U.S. Savings Bonds: You can opt to receive your refund in the form of U.S. Savings Bonds.
Apply to Next Year's Taxes: You can choose to have your refund applied as a credit towards your estimated taxes for the upcoming tax year.
Confirm Your Selection: Select your preferred refund method and click "Continue" to save your changes. You can then proceed with reviewing and filing your return.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download) Users
The process is very similar for desktop users:
Open Your Return: Launch your TurboTax Desktop software and open the tax file you're working on.
Go to the "File" Tab: At the top of the program, you'll usually find a "File" tab or section. Click on it.
Locate Refund Options: Within the "File" section, look for options related to "How you'd like to get your refund" or "Refund details."
Make Your Choice: Similar to the online version, you'll see options for direct deposit, paper check, etc. Select your desired method and enter any necessary banking information.
Save Your Changes: Ensure your changes are saved before proceeding to the final filing steps.
Step 3: What if Your Return is Pending or Accepted? (Scenarios B & D)
This is where the reality check comes in: you generally cannot change your refund method once your return is in a pending or accepted status.
Sub-heading: Why It's Difficult to Change After Filing
Once you transmit your tax return, the information, including your refund method, is sent to the IRS (or state tax agency). They begin processing it based on those initial instructions.
No "Recall" Button: Think of it like mailing a letter. Once it's in the mailbox, you can't just call the post office and ask them to change the recipient or delivery method.
Security and Fraud Prevention: Tax authorities have strict protocols to prevent fraud. Allowing easy changes to refund destinations after a return is submitted would create significant security vulnerabilities.
Sub-heading: What if You Entered the Wrong Bank Account Number (Direct Deposit)?
This is a common and stressful situation. Here's what typically happens and what you might be able to do:
Incorrect (but Valid) Account, Not Yours: If you entered a valid routing and account number that belongs to someone else, but the name on the bank account does not match your name (as it appears on your tax return), the bank will usually reject the deposit. The IRS will then typically mail you a paper check. This is often the best-case scenario for an error.
Incorrect (but Valid) Account, Belongs to You (But Not the Intended One): If the incorrect account number you entered is still your account (e.g., a savings account instead of a checking account), the refund will likely go to that account. In this case, you'll need to work with your bank to transfer funds or access them from that account.
Invalid Account Number (Closed or Non-existent): If the bank account number is invalid or the account is closed, the direct deposit will be rejected. The IRS will then mail you a paper check to the address on your return.
Contacting the IRS (Limited Success): While it's generally stated that the IRS cannot reroute a direct deposit once it's been sent, if your return is in a very early stage of processing (e.g., just accepted, but no deposit date yet), you might try calling the IRS directly at their refund hotline. Be prepared for a long wait and understand that success is rare. Their number is typically 1-800-829-1040. They will usually advise you that they cannot change it and that the bank will reject it if the account is invalid or the name doesn't match.
Sub-heading: What if You Want to Switch from Direct Deposit to Paper Check (or vice versa)?
Once accepted, this change is highly unlikely to be accommodated. The IRS processes refunds based on the initial instruction. If you selected direct deposit, they will attempt direct deposit. If it fails (due to an invalid account or name mismatch), they will then issue a paper check.
Step 4: When Your Return is Rejected (Scenario C)
If your e-filed return is rejected by the IRS or state, this is your opportunity to change your refund method!
Receive Rejection Notification: TurboTax will notify you of the rejection and the reason for it.
Go Back into Your Return: Log back into your TurboTax account (or open your desktop software).
Correct the Rejection Errors: TurboTax will guide you through fixing the specific errors that caused the rejection.
Revisit Refund Information (Step 2): Before re-filing, you will have the option to revisit the "File" section, specifically "Step 2: Your refund info."
Update Your Refund Method: This is your chance to change from direct deposit to paper check, update bank account details, or select another available option.
Re-submit Your Return: Once all corrections are made and your refund method is updated, re-submit your return electronically.
Step 5: Amending Your Return – The Last Resort (and Not for Refund Method Changes)
You might be thinking, "Can't I just amend my return (Form 1040-X) to change my refund method?" The answer is generally no.
Amended returns (Form 1040-X for federal) are used to correct tax information on your original return that impacts your tax liability (e.g., missed deductions, overlooked income, filing status changes). They are not designed to change the method by which you receive your refund. Even if you amend your return and it results in a new refund amount, the original refund method instructions will generally stand, or a paper check will be issued for any additional refund.
Important Considerations and Tips
Accuracy is Paramount: Always triple-check your bank routing and account numbers when setting up direct deposit. Even a single digit error can cause significant delays or issues.
Track Your Refund: Once you've filed, use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool (irs.gov/refunds) and your state's equivalent tool to track the status of your refund. This will tell you if it's been accepted, when it's expected, and if there were any issues.
Be Patient: Tax refunds can take time to process. The IRS typically issues most refunds within 21 days of accepting an e-filed return. Paper checks take significantly longer.
Contact Your Bank First (for Direct Deposit Issues): If your direct deposit isn't appearing, and you suspect an issue with your bank account, contact your bank before calling the IRS. They may be able to provide information on any rejected deposits or pending transfers.
Beware of Scams: The IRS will never call, email, or text you demanding immediate payment or asking for personal financial information. Be vigilant against refund scams.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my refund status on TurboTax?
You can check your federal refund status using the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool on the IRS website (irs.gov/refunds). For state refunds, visit your state's Department of Revenue website. TurboTax also provides a link to these tools within your account once you've filed.
How to change my bank account for direct deposit before filing with TurboTax?
Go to the "File" section in TurboTax, find "Step 2: Your refund info," and select "Revisit." There, you can update your bank's routing number and your account number for direct deposit.
How to switch from a paper check to direct deposit on TurboTax before filing?
In the "File" section of your TurboTax return, choose "Revisit" next to "Step 2: Your refund info." You'll then be able to select "Direct Deposit" and enter your banking details.
How to get a paper check if direct deposit fails on TurboTax?
If your direct deposit fails (e.g., due to an invalid account number or a name mismatch), the IRS will automatically mail you a paper check to the address listed on your tax return. You do not need to take any action for this to happen.
How to stop a direct deposit from TurboTax after filing?
Once your return is filed and accepted, you generally cannot stop a direct deposit from TurboTax or the IRS. If the account is invalid or the name doesn't match, the bank will reject it, and a check will be mailed. In rare cases, if the return was just accepted, you might try contacting the IRS directly, but success is highly unlikely.
How to change my refund to be applied to next year's taxes using TurboTax?
Before filing, navigate to the "File" section in TurboTax, then "Step 2: Your refund info," and choose "Revisit." You'll see an option to apply your refund to your next year's estimated taxes.
How to contact TurboTax customer support for refund issues?
You can typically find support options by logging into your TurboTax account and looking for "Help" or "Support." Their website (
How to correct a wrong routing number entered for direct deposit on TurboTax?
If you haven't filed yet, go back to the "File" section in TurboTax and correct the routing number under "Step 2: Your refund info." If you have already filed and it was accepted, the IRS will likely attempt the deposit, and if rejected by the bank due to an invalid number, they will issue a paper check.
How to change a refund method if my e-filed return was rejected by the IRS?
If your return is rejected, you can log back into TurboTax, correct the errors that caused the rejection, and before re-filing, revisit the "File" section and "Step 2: Your refund info" to update your desired refund method.
How to know if my direct deposit information was successfully updated on TurboTax?
After making changes in the "File" section before submitting, TurboTax will show you a summary of your refund details, including the selected method and account information. Always review this summary carefully before electronically filing your return.
