Direct Deposit Form

A direct deposit form — also called a direct deposit authorization form or ACH authorization form — is a document that authorizes your employer to deposit your paycheck directly into your bank account via the ACH (Automated Clearing House) network.

What Is on a Direct Deposit Form?

A standard direct deposit form includes these fields:

Employee Information

• Full legal name
• Employee ID or Social Security number
• Address

Banking Information

• Bank or credit union name
• Routing number (9 digits — what is this?)
• Account number
• Account type (checking or savings)

Deposit Instructions

• Full amount — Entire paycheck deposited to one account
• Partial amount — A fixed dollar amount or percentage to one account, remainder to another
• Multiple accounts — Some forms allow splitting deposits across 2-3 accounts

Authorization

• Your signature
• Date
• Statement authorizing electronic deposits

How to Fill Out a Direct Deposit Form

Step 1: Get Your Banking Details

You need your routing number and account number. Find them:

• On a check (bottom left for routing, bottom center for account)
• In your banking app or online portal
• By searching on VoidedCheck.com

Step 2: Complete the Employee Section

Fill in your name, employee ID, and other identifying information exactly as they appear in your employer's records.

Step 3: Enter Banking Information

• Bank name: Your financial institution's full name
• Routing number: 9 digits (how to find it)
• Account number: Your specific account number
• Account type: Check "Checking" or "Savings"

Step 4: Specify Deposit Amount

• Select "100%" or "Full Amount" for your entire paycheck
• Or enter a specific dollar amount or percentage for partial deposits

Step 5: Sign and Date

Sign and date the form to authorize electronic deposits.

Step 6: Attach a Voided Check

Many employers require a voided check stapled or attached to the form. If you don't have one, generate a voided check online.

Direct Deposit Form vs. Voided Check

| | Direct Deposit Form | Voided Check |

|---|---|---|

| Purpose | Written authorization for electronic deposits | Visual verification of banking details |

| Information | Your name, bank, routing number, account number, signature | Routing number, account number, bank name |

| Required? | Almost always | Usually (some employers waive it) |

| Where to get it | From your employer | From your checkbook or online |

Most employers want both — the form serves as your written authorization, and the voided check verifies the numbers you wrote are correct.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Wrong routing number — Large banks have multiple routing numbers by state. Use the one for where you opened your account.
• Transposed digits — Double-check every digit of both your routing and account numbers
• Wrong account type — Make sure you select "Checking" or "Savings" correctly
• Unsigned form — Your employer cannot process the form without your signature

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I get a direct deposit form?

Your employer's HR or payroll department provides it, often as part of new-hire paperwork or through an online payroll portal.

Do I need a voided check with my direct deposit form?

Most employers require one, but some accept the form alone. Ask your payroll department.

Can I fill out a direct deposit form online?

Many employers use digital payroll systems (ADP, Gusto, Paychex) where you can enter your banking information online.

How long does it take for direct deposit to start?

Typically 1-2 pay cycles after your employer processes the paperwork.

Can I use one form for multiple bank accounts?

Some forms have fields for multiple accounts. If yours doesn't, ask HR for an additional form.

Generate a voided check to attach to your direct deposit form →