Direct deposit is an electronic payment method where funds are deposited directly into a checking account, typically used for payroll, government benefits, and tax refunds.

Direct deposit eliminates the need for paper checks and provides faster access to funds. Employers commonly use direct deposit for salary payments via ACH, and it's a common form of EFT for Social Security benefits, tax refunds, and other recurring payments. Employers often request a voided check to verify routing details.