What this line means
The nine-digit routing number for the first bank account where you want part of your refund deposited. This number identifies your bank or credit union — not your personal account. You find it on the bottom-left of a personal check or in your bank’s online portal under direct deposit or wire transfer settings.
Does this apply to you?
Easy to overlook
The routing number is not the same as your account number The routing number is always exactly nine digits and identifies the financial institution, not your personal account. Filers sometimes transpose the two numbers, entering the account number on line 1a and the routing number on line 1b. If you are unsure, check your bank’s website or call customer service — the routing number is the same for all customers at that branch. 1 IRS Form 8888 instructions — Line 1a
Online-only banks have routing numbers too Digital banks and credit unions that lack physical branches still have ABA routing numbers. These routing numbers are found in the app or website settings, usually under “direct deposit” or “account details.” Filers with online banks sometimes leave this line blank because they do not have paper checks to reference. 2 General filing pattern — incorrect routing numbers causing refund delays
Watch out for this
Copying a routing number from an old check after switching banks or closing an account. If the routing number does not match an active account, the IRS cannot deposit your refund. They will mail a paper check to the address on your return instead, adding weeks to the process. Verify the routing number is current before filing.
Footnotes
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IRS Form 8888 Instructions, Line 1a. https://www.irs.gov/instructions/i8888 ↩
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IRS Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax, Refunds. https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p17.pdf ↩