For thed sake of expediency ,I indicated that my friends refund should be direct deposited into my account. She is aware. What to do?

[user220915845]

I was helping my friend. She doesn't have a regular bank account. Now, I am worriedd this is holding up her return. I've already contacted my bank. There is no intention of theft or fraud.

[Mike9241]

there is no way her refund should be deposited into your account since her name is not on it. if and when the bank gets the funds, it will note this and should send the funds back to the IRS which will then issue a check sent to the address on her return.  this may not be what holding up her refund. the IRS is behind in issuing them so depending on when she filed and how  - e-file or mail (this assumes the IRS got her return) it could take 6 to 8 months.

an option available depending on your bank 

she could have a friend or family member with a bank account cash her check. she endorses the check over to that person by writing “Pay to the order of” and that person's name on the back of the check. she signs her name under that. Then you or her friend takes the check to their bank to cash and give her the money.

again this will depend on any policies the bank has. 

other options

Some banks have relaxed policies that allow check cashing for non-customers. Call banks in your area to learn the policies for cashing income tax refund checks for non-customers. You might find a bank that will cash your check without any fees or restrictions. Some banks charge a fee to cash checks for non-customers.

check cashing service 

prepaid cash card

[rjs]

If you have already filed the tax return there is no way to change where the refund will be sent. As Mike9241 said, sending it to your account is probably not what is delaying the refund.

Many banks do not check the name on the direct deposit, so her refund might get deposited in your account when the IRS issues it.