First, getting the message: The direct debit option is not available... You will get this message if you have selected file by mail. Direct debit through the TurboTax system is not available if you do not file electronically.
Another reason this message can appear is if you waiting on a form to be finalized and available by the IRS. If you see a form you need to file is not available for e-filing, it will not give you the option to Direct Debit your payment yet. Once the form becomes available, Direct Debit for paying taxes owed should become available to you. You can check the IRS form availability in the link below, in case there is a form that is holding up that option for you:
IRS forms availability table for TurboTax individual (personal) tax products
Last, you will be asked how you want to pay in the File section in TurboTax, you'll see the payment option Withdraw the money from my bank account when we ask how you want to pay your federal taxes. This is the direct debit option. This is where you will enter your routing and account number.
Please reach out to us if you continue to have issues, so that we may look into it further for you.
