The IRS 1390 is a notice about a problem with your direct deposit setup

If you received an IRS notice 1390, it means the IRS tried to deposit money into your bank account and the deposit failed. The notice tells you why it failed and what you need to do next. Common reasons include a closed account, incorrect account or routing number, or a mismatch between the name on your tax return and the name on your bank account.

The 1390 is not a penalty or a sign that you did something wrong. It is simply the IRS's way of letting you know that your direct deposit did not go through, and that they will try again or send a check instead. The timing and next steps depend on which version of the 1390 you received and what caused the failure.

Key Takeaways

  • A 1390 notice means your direct deposit failed, and the IRS is telling you why and what happens next.
  • The most common causes are a closed account, wrong account number, or a name mismatch between your return and your bank records.
  • You do not need to respond to every 1390 — some are informational only, while others require you to contact your bank or the IRS.
  • If your account information was wrong, you can file an amended return or contact the IRS to update your direct deposit details for future refunds.

Why the IRS sends a 1390 notice

The IRS sends a 1390 when the financial institution (your bank or credit union) rejects a direct deposit transfer. This rejection happens before any money leaves the IRS's account, so you are not out funds — the IRS simply cannot complete the deposit as planned.

The notice includes a reason code that explains what went wrong. Common codes point to issues like an account that no longer exists, a routing number that does not match the account number, or a discrepancy in the account holder's name. The IRS also tells you whether they will retry the deposit, send a paper check, or wait for you to provide corrected information.

What to do if you get a 1390

First, read the reason code on the notice carefully. If the code says the account is closed, contact your bank to confirm. If you closed that account intentionally, you will need to either reopen it (if the bank allows) or wait for the IRS to send a check instead.

If the reason code points to an incorrect account or routing number, call your bank and verify the correct numbers. Write them down exactly as they appear on a blank check or your bank's website. Then contact the IRS at the phone number on the notice to provide the corrected information. Have your Social Security number, tax return information, and correct account details ready when you call.

If the reason code mentions a name mismatch, check that the name on your tax return matches the name on your bank account exactly — including middle initials, suffixes, or any other variations. If they do not match, you may need to update your bank account name or file an amended return with the correct name.

How long it takes to resolve a 1390

If the IRS is retrying the deposit automatically, the second attempt usually happens within two to four weeks of the original failure. If the retry succeeds, you will see the deposit in your account without needing to do anything.

If you provide corrected information to the IRS, processing the update and attempting a new deposit typically takes another two to four weeks. If the IRS decides to send a paper check instead, allow four to six weeks from the date of the notice for the check to arrive by mail.

Preventing 1390 problems on future returns

Double-check your account and routing numbers before you file your tax return. Use a blank check or your bank's online banking portal to confirm the numbers — do not rely on memory. Verify that the name on your return matches the name on your bank account exactly.

If you change banks or close an account, update your direct deposit information with the IRS before you file your next return. You can do this by filing an amended return (Form 1040-X) or by contacting the IRS directly. Keeping your information current prevents delays and rejected deposits.

When to contact the IRS about a 1390

Contact the IRS if the notice says you need to provide corrected information, if you do not understand the reason code, or if more than six weeks have passed since the notice date and you have not received your refund. The phone number is on the notice itself.

Have your Social Security number, the notice, and your tax return information available when you call. Be ready to provide your correct account and routing numbers if that is what caused the failure. The IRS can also tell you whether a retry is scheduled or whether a check has been mailed.

What happens if you ignore a 1390

If the IRS is automatically retrying the deposit or sending a check, you do not have to do anything — your refund will reach you eventually. However, if the notice asks you to provide corrected information and you do not respond, the IRS may hold your refund or send it by check, which takes longer.

Ignoring a 1390 does not result in a penalty or loss of your refund. It simply means your money will take a longer route to reach you. If you want your refund as quickly as possible, respond to the notice promptly with corrected information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a 1390 mean I made a mistake on my tax return?

Not necessarily. A 1390 is about your direct deposit setup, not the accuracy of your return. It means the IRS could not deposit your refund into the account you listed, usually because the account information was wrong or the account no longer exists. Your return itself may be correct.

Can I get my refund faster if I provide corrected information?

Yes. If you contact the IRS with corrected account details, they can attempt a new direct deposit, which is faster than waiting for a paper check. Direct deposit typically arrives within two to four weeks of the successful attempt, while checks take four to six weeks.

What if my bank says my account number is correct but the IRS still rejected it?

Ask your bank whether the account is active and in good standing. Some banks flag accounts for fraud prevention or other reasons, which can cause deposits to fail. Your bank may need to clear a hold or verify the deposit with you before it will accept it. The IRS can also retry the deposit after your bank resolves the issue.

Will I get a 1390 if I file an amended return?

You may receive a 1390 if you change your direct deposit information on an amended return and the new information is incorrect or the account has issues. Follow the same steps: verify your account details with your bank and contact the IRS if the notice asks you to provide corrected information.