When setting up direct deposits with your employer, you must supply a few essential documents. These documents include your employer identification number, a completed application, and a voided business check for business owners. On the other hand, employees will need their personal bank account information, including the account number and routing number. While the direct deposit guide does not list every requirement, it offers practical advice on the process. Keep in mind, however, that this is not legal advice.
Payroll Benefits
Direct deposits have several benefits for both employees and employers. Employees provide the bank account information and the account holder’s name when setting up a direct deposit. There are three numbers that employees must provide to set up direct deposits. The account number tells the provider where to deposit the funds. The routing number allows the money to be sent digitally. Finally, the Social Security number serves as an extra identity check. Providing the bank account information is simple.
Another benefit to direct deposit is its convenience. Instead of writing and mailing checks, employers can now make their employees pay directly into their bank accounts. With direct deposit, the employee receives their paychecks quickly and securely. This can make payroll preparation more straightforward and predictable. Direct deposits also cut down on bookkeeping tasks. Employers no longer have to mail checks or worry about lost bills. They also reduce the risk of missing an employee’s paycheck or requiring additional time to investigate a failed inspection.
Downsides
If you’ve never heard of direct deposits, you’re not alone. Direct deposits are a safe and convenient way to receive your paycheck. This service moves funds directly into your bank account through a network of banks. All you need to know to receive a check is the bank’s account number, routing number, and name. You can even provide a void check with these same details. But direct deposits do have a few downsides.
With direct deposits, businesses lose some “float,” which is the time it takes to withdraw funds from an employee’s account. Paper checks may take a day to clear, or the employees may deposit the check in another financial institution before cashing it. Employees without a bank account may also prefer other payment methods. Direct deposit also makes payroll more predictable, reducing employee turnover.
Routing Number
If you’re a regular bank customer, you probably have a routing number. Your bank assigns one to each customer. You’ll need this number to make a direct deposit, order checks, and do various other banking transactions. This will also be necessary if you want to receive government benefits or other payments automatically. You also need your routing number to pay your bills online, set up direct deposit, and make payments over the phone. You may need to use the routing number when ordering checks or paying a bill online.
You can find your routing number on your check by locating it in the bottom left corner of the check. This number is usually the first nine digits on a long line of numbers, known as the magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) line. You can also find it by logging into your online banking account. However, it’s important to remember that financial institutions often change their routing numbers. So verify your number with your bank before making any monetary transactions.
Unique Account Number
The unique account number you’ll need for direct deposits is in the bottom left-hand corner of your checks. This number is public knowledge but private information. If you’ve ever used direct deposits, you know you need this number for various purposes. You can get it on your account or bank statement, but you’ll need it for direct deposit.
First, you need your routing number and account number. Each bank assigns its unique routing number, and even smaller banks have several. These numbers may differ from state to state, so you’ll have to confirm which one your bank issues. You’ll also need your account number using a third-party service like PayPal. You’ll need both of these numbers to make your direct deposit. If you’re unsure, call the bank and ask. Double-checking these numbers will ensure your successful transaction and avoid delays and costly bank charges.