If you're expecting a refund from a prior-year tax return, you may still be able to choose direct deposit for your federal refund before you print and mail the return. Here's how to enter or update your banking information in your prior-year return.
How to Enter Direct Deposit Information
- Sign in to your account and go to the Tax Home page.
- Select the tax year you want to access.
- In the Tax Returns section, select the three-dot menu next to that return and choose View.
- Select Access Return or Fix Return.
- From the left navigation menu, select Federal Section.
- Under the federal menu, choose Payments & Estimates.
- Find Direct Deposit Information and select Begin.
- Enter your bank routing number and account number for your refund.
The banking details you enter will appear on your Form 1040 as your requested federal refund method.
State Prior-Year Returns
If you're filing a prior-year state return by mail and your state allows direct deposit for paper-filed returns, enter your routing and account numbers in the designated section after printing the return. Requirements vary by state, so be sure to review the state return instructions before mailing.
Can I E-File a Prior-Year Tax Return?
No, the IRS and state tax agencies generally require prior-year returns to be printed, signed, and mailed. While you must mail the return, you may still be able to receive your federal refund by direct deposit if you enter your banking information before printing.
Where do I mail my return?
For assistance on where to mail your prior year return, please refer to the following links:
Federal Return - Click here
State Return - Click here
Before You Mail
Be sure to:
- Sign your federal return.
- Sign any state return(s), if applicable.
- Attach any required supporting documents.
- Keep a copy of your return for your records.
Important: Unsigned tax returns can delay processing and may be returned by the IRS or your state tax agency for correction.