US Kiwi
Returning Member

Bank Account Details for Stimulus Check

I am a US Expat.  Details from my 2018 and 2019 returns are not recognized by Get My Payment, so I cannot log in to provide bank account details for direct deposit to my US bank account for the Economic Stimulus Check.  Is there a vehicle (e.g., amended return) that can provide the IRS these details, where its own application fails?

After you file

there is no known alternative.  the default will be to send a paper check to the address on your tax return 

View solution in original post

US Kiwi
Returning Member

After you file

I may have found the answer to my own question: Will I get my stimulus as a direct deposit or as a paper check?

Here's how it works:

If you filed a 2018 and/or 2019 return with the IRS, and at least one of those returns had a refund which was direct-deposited, the IRS will deposit your stimulus payment into that account (if it's closed, you'll get a check instead.)

If you filed a 2018 and/or 2019 return and neither one had a refund coming, the IRS will mail you a stimulus check. The same holds true if these returns had a refund which was sent as a check.

In other words, if you requested a direct-deposited refund on at least one return in the past two years – 2018 or 2019 – your stimulus will be direct-deposited into that account (assuming it's still valid), and if not, you'll get a check.This cannot be changed.

Didn't file a 2018 return and haven't filed your 2019 return yet? Now's a good time; the sooner you file, the sooner you'll get your stimulus payment. If you're expecting a refund, remember to choose direct deposit; if you owe, you have until July 15 to pay, so file now to speed up that stimulus check!