Refund checks are made out to whoever files the return. If a married couple files a joint return, the refund check will be payable to both parties. Because both names would be on the check, both names must be on the bank account. Most banks require all parties named on the check to endorse it before it is cashed or deposited.
With a direct deposit, the bank would be at risk if it cashed a check or deposited one when only one party owns the account. The bank would be liable if you were separated or divorced and most likely wouldn't take the risk.
To avoid that problem, you should designate a bank account that is jointly owned.
