How to Change Your Bank Account Number

Changing a bank account number typically involves acquiring a new account and then updating all entities that use the original details. This process requires careful attention to ensure financial continuity and prevent disruptions.

Preparing to Update Your Account Information

Before initiating any changes, gather all necessary information for your new bank account: the account number, routing number, bank name, and bank address. This information is usually available on your bank’s website, through online banking, or on a voided check. Having these details accessible streamlines the update process.

Compile a list of all entities that currently use your old bank account number. Review at least the past 12 months of bank and credit card statements to identify all direct deposits and recurring payments. Many modern banking or budgeting applications can help categorize spending and highlight recurring payments. Also, check online banking portals for any linked accounts or services and recall all online services, employers, government agencies, and personal contacts that might have your previous bank details on file.

Updating Direct Deposits

Updating direct deposit information with your employer is a primary step. This typically involves contacting your human resources or payroll department, who will often provide a direct deposit authorization form. You will need to provide your new account and routing numbers, and sometimes a voided check or a bank letter for verification. It is advisable to inquire about the expected timeframe for the change to take effect and monitor your first deposit to the new account.

For government benefits such as Social Security, updating direct deposit can often be done through their dedicated online portals. The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows changes via the “my Social Security” account by selecting the “Benefits & Payments Details” link and then “Update Direct Deposit.” Other methods include calling the SSA directly or visiting a local office. Similarly, unemployment benefits can typically be updated online through your state’s unemployment insurance portal by accessing your account and updating payment options. Government direct deposits may take several weeks to process, so maintaining the old account until the first deposit clears the new one is prudent.

Updating Automatic Payments and Subscriptions

Updating recurring automatic payments requires direct engagement with each service provider. Common categories include utility bills (electricity, gas, water), which can often be updated by logging into your online account with the utility company or by calling their customer service. Loan payments, such as mortgages, car loans, or student loans, generally require updating bank details through the lender’s online portal or by submitting a specific form. Some lenders might even offer a small discount for setting up autopay.

Subscription services, including streaming platforms like Netflix and Spotify, software subscriptions, or gym memberships, are typically updated by logging into your online account on their respective websites or mobile applications. Within the account settings, there is usually a section for managing payment methods where you can add new bank details. Ensuring all recurring payments are successfully transferred to the new account is important to avoid missed payments, potential late fees, or service interruptions. It is a good practice to keep the old account active for a period to catch any payments that might still be debited from it.

Other Important Account Updates

Beyond regular direct deposits and automatic payments, several other accounts may require updating. Online shopping accounts, such as Amazon or PayPal, often link directly to bank accounts for payments or refunds. For Amazon, you can update payment methods within your account settings, often under “Payment Methods” or “Your Orders.” PayPal typically requires deleting the old bank account and adding the new one in the “Wallet” section, followed by verification.

Investment or brokerage accounts, where bank details are used for transfers, will also need to be updated. This usually involves logging into your brokerage account online and navigating to the funding or transfer settings to link the new bank account. For tax refunds from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), direct deposit information is provided when filing your tax return. If you need to change bank details after filing but before the refund is processed, you may be able to contact the IRS to stop the direct deposit and request a paper check. The IRS advises verifying routing and account numbers carefully, as they are not responsible for errors made by the taxpayer.