Where to deposit your tax refund or make a tax payment online

You can deposit a federal tax refund or pay taxes owed through the IRS website, your bank's online portal, or a third-party payment processor approved by the IRS. The IRS does not collect payments directly through its main website — instead, it directs you to processors like PayPal, Stripe, or ACI Payments, each of which charges a fee (usually $2 to $4 for payments under $1,000). If you are receiving a refund, you can have it deposited straight to your bank account by providing your routing number and account number during tax filing.

For state tax refunds or payments, you will use your state's tax agency website, not the federal system. Each state runs its own deposit and payment system. The process is similar — you log in, enter your banking information, and confirm the transaction — but the website address and exact steps vary by state.

Key Takeaways

  • Federal tax refunds are deposited directly to your bank account if you provide your routing and account numbers when you file your tax return.
  • To pay federal taxes owed online, go to IRS.gov/payments and use an IRS-approved payment processor; each processor charges a fee of $2 to $4 for most transactions.
  • State tax refunds and payments use your state's tax agency website, not the federal IRS system, and each state's process and fees differ.
  • You will need your bank's routing number and your account number to set up direct deposit or make an online payment.
  • Direct deposit of a refund is free and usually arrives within 21 days of the IRS accepting your return.

How to set up direct deposit for a federal tax refund

Direct deposit is the fastest and free way to receive a federal tax refund. When you file your tax return — whether through tax software, a tax preparer, or by mail — you will see a section asking for banking information. You need two pieces of information: your bank's routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies your bank) and your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits, printed on the bottom left of your checks).

Enter this information in the direct deposit section of your tax return before you submit it. The IRS will deposit your refund directly to that account once it processes your return. Direct deposit refunds typically arrive within 21 days of the IRS accepting your return, though it can take longer during peak filing season (January through April). You can track the status of your refund on IRS.gov using the "Where's My Refund?" tool, which updates once per day.

If you do not have a bank account, you can have your refund deposited to a prepaid debit card or a savings account at a credit union. The routing and account numbers work the same way. Some tax software providers also offer temporary accounts that can receive refunds; check whether your tax software offers this option.

How to pay federal taxes owed online

To pay federal income taxes you owe, visit IRS.gov/payments. The IRS lists four approved payment processors: PayPal, Stripe, ACI Payments, and Authorize.Net. Click on the processor you prefer, and you will be taken to that company's payment page. Each processor charges a fee — typically $2.50 to $3.95 for payments under $1,000 — and you can see the exact fee before you confirm the payment.

You will need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), your filing status, and the exact amount you owe. Have your bank account information ready if you are paying by electronic bank transfer, or a credit or debit card if you are paying by card. Payments made by electronic bank transfer usually cost less in fees than card payments.

The payment processors accept payments up until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the tax deadline (usually April 15). If you pay after the deadline, you will owe penalties and interest in addition to the tax itself. The IRS will send you a confirmation number once the payment goes through; save this for your records.

How to pay state taxes online

Each state that collects income tax runs its own payment system. Go to your state's tax agency website — usually found by searching "[your state] department of revenue" or "[your state] tax commission" — and look for a link labeled "Pay Taxes" or "Make a Payment." You will log in with your state tax ID or Social Security number and the amount you owe.

State payment systems vary widely. Some allow you to pay by bank transfer, credit card, or debit card; others accept only one or two methods. Some charge a fee; others do not. A few states require you to use a specific third-party processor, similar to the federal system. Check your state's website for the exact methods, fees, and deadline — state tax deadlines sometimes differ from the federal deadline.

If you owe both federal and state taxes, you must pay each through its own system. Paying federal taxes does not pay your state taxes, and vice versa.

What information you need before you start

Before you attempt to deposit a refund or pay taxes online, gather these documents:

  • Your Social Security number or ITIN
  • Your bank's routing number (found on your bank's website or by calling customer service)
  • Your bank account number (on the bottom left of your checks, or in your online banking portal)
  • The account type (checking or savings)
  • Your filing status and the tax year you are filing for
  • The exact amount of the refund or payment

If you are paying by credit or debit card instead of bank transfer, have your card number, expiration date, and CVV ready. If you are paying through a third-party processor, you may also need to create an account with that processor before you can complete the payment.

Timing and what to expect after you submit

For federal refunds by direct deposit, the IRS typically processes your return within 21 days of accepting it. During peak filing season (January through mid-April), processing can take longer. You can check the status of your refund on IRS.gov using the "Where's My Refund?" tool; it updates once per day and will tell you the expected deposit date once the refund is approved.

For federal tax payments made online, the payment processor will give you a confirmation number immediately. The IRS receives the payment within one to two business days. If you are paying close to the deadline, pay at least one business day before April 15 to ensure the IRS receives it on time.

For state refunds and payments, timing depends on your state. Some states process refunds within two weeks; others take four to six weeks. Check your state's tax agency website for its typical processing time. You should receive a confirmation number or receipt from the payment system; keep this until you see the transaction reflected in your account or on your tax record.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Once you file your return with direct deposit information, the IRS will deposit to that account. If you need to change the account, you must file an amended return (Form 1040-X) or contact the IRS directly. It is faster to let the refund go to the original account and then transfer it yourself.

What if I enter the wrong routing or account number?

The IRS will attempt to deposit to the account you provided. If the routing number is invalid, the deposit will be rejected and returned to the IRS, which will then mail you a check. This can add several weeks to receiving your refund. If the account number is wrong but the routing number is correct, the money may go to the wrong account at your bank; contact your bank immediately if this happens.

Do I have to pay a fee to deposit my refund?

No. Direct deposit of a federal refund is free. You only pay a fee if you choose to pay taxes owed through an online payment processor. Some states also charge fees for online tax payments; check your state's website.

Can I pay my taxes with a credit card?

Yes, but it costs more. Credit card payments through IRS-approved processors typically cost $3 to $4 per $1,000 paid, while bank transfer payments cost $2 to $3. The processor will show you the fee before you confirm the payment.

What if the payment processor website is down on tax day?

Pay at least one business day before the deadline to avoid this risk. If the processor is down on the deadline itself, the IRS generally grants an extension, but it is safer not to wait. You can also pay by mail or in person at an IRS office if online payment is not an option.