What Is Direct Deposit?

The term direct deposit refers to the deposit of funds electronically into a bank account rather than through a physical, paper check. Direct deposit requires the use of an electronic network that allows deposits to take place between banks. This network is called the automated clearing house (ACH). Because the funds are transferred electronically, recipients' accounts are credited automatically, so there is no need to wait for the money to clear. Common uses for direct deposit include paychecks, tax refunds, and other benefits.

How Direct Deposit Works

Direct deposit is a safe and convenient way to receive payment. Funds are deposited into a recipient's account directly through an electronic network. In order for the funds to be transferred from the payer, the recipient must provide the name of their bank, their account number, and the bank's routing number to the person or business making the deposit. Alternatively, they may provide a void check which has the same information printed on it.

It can take a few days for direct deposit to be set up. Once the depositor has the information, they enter it into their banking system. Funds are transferred electronically and are deposited into the recipient's account at midnight on the payment date. Since the funds clear automatically through the ACH, they are available immediately, so there's no need for the bank to put a hold on them.

This method is commonly used to transfer an employee's salary, tax refunds, investment redemptions, payments from retirement accounts, and government benefits like Social Security. Bill payments are also made using direct deposit from debtors to creditors. For instance, taxpayers have the option to receive their refunds in the form of a personal check or through a direct deposit. Most refunds are issued within a few weeks of the date the taxpayer initially filed their annual income tax. Direct deposit allows the government to make the refund immediately available to the citizen. The same applies to government benefits like Social Security.

While most direct deposits are done using bank accounts and automated clearing houses, these payments can also be done using online banking and by transfers through smartphones. If, for instance, someone wants to send money directly to a family member, all they need is the person's email and/or mobile phone number. The recipient gives the transfer company their banking information. Once the money is sent, it deposits the money into the payee's account. As with other direct deposit cases, the money is available for immediate use.

• Direct deposit is the deposit of funds electronically into a bank account rather than through a physical, paper check.
• It requires the use of an electronic network that allows deposits to take place between banks called the automated clearing house.
• Payees must provide the payer with their banking information or a void check in order to receive direct deposit payments.
• Salaries, tax refunds, investment redemptions, and government benefits are commonly paid through direct deposit.