While importing 1099-b, turbo tax recommends importing direct deposit info. Is this imperative for tax purposes or only if I want my refund to go to this account?

No, that is only if you want your refund to go to your account. 

If you would rather enter that Form 1099-B by hand, you can do so following the instructions in the FAQ below:

https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/4789365

I get the same recommendation while importing. It offers to add direct deposit from TD Ameritrade. It seems that it would add the direct deposit info into the tax return if you wanted a refund to go to your broker. I just want to make sure nothing else is missed or excluded if I uncheck the import of this data. I am nearly done with filing - don’t want to have to reload because of the ‘direct deposit’ data not being imported. 

I think I am ‘safe’ - was just looking to see if anyone could confirm that it does not have some hidden impact on your tax return!  Thank you.