7 Critical Steps To Change Direct Deposit On Paylocity (Avoid Paycheck Delays In 2025)
Changing your direct deposit information on Paylocity is a simple, self-service process that employees can complete without needing to contact HR, provided you use the correct platform and follow the steps precisely. As of December 19, 2025, the most crucial detail to remember is that while the change is immediate in the system, the actual bank verification process—known as the pre-notification period—can take several days, which is a critical factor in ensuring your next paycheck is deposited correctly.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps using the Employee Self-Service (ESS) portal, cover the often-misunderstood pre-notification timeline, and explain how to leverage Paylocity’s powerful feature for splitting your paycheck across multiple bank accounts. Following these instructions will help you update your banking details quickly and avoid any unexpected paycheck delays when switching to a new bank or credit union.
The Essential Paylocity Direct Deposit Change Steps (Employee Self-Service Portal)
The most reliable and recommended method for updating your banking details is through the Paylocity desktop web application, also known as the Employee Self-Service (ESS) portal. While the Paylocity mobile app allows you to view most information, direct deposit changes are often restricted to the full web portal for security and data integrity.
Step-by-Step Guide to Updating Your Bank Account
To successfully change or update your direct deposit information, you will need your new bank's full routing number and account number. A voided check or deposit slip is the best source for this information. Ensure you are logging in via a desktop or laptop browser for the smoothest experience.
- Step 1: Log in to the ESS Portal. Navigate to the Paylocity login page and enter your Company ID, Username, and Password.
- Step 2: Navigate to the Pay Card. Once logged in, locate the main navigation or dashboard. Look for the tile or section labeled "Pay" or "Payroll".
- Step 3: Access Direct Deposit Accounts. Within the Pay section, you may need to click a button labeled "More" or "See More" to expand the options. Select the link or tab labeled "Direct Deposit Accounts".
- Step 4: Add a New Account. To change banks, it is generally safer to *add* the new account first before deleting or modifying the old one. Click the "Add New Direct Deposit" button.
- Step 5: Enter Banking Details. Carefully input the new bank's Routing Number and your specific Account Number. Double-check these numbers, as a single digit error can lead to a rejected transfer and a delayed paycheck.
- Step 6: Define the Allocation. This is the critical step where you tell Paylocity how much of your paycheck should go to this new account. You can set it to receive a specific "Flat Amount", a "Percentage" of your net pay, or the "Remaining Net Pay" (the entire balance after all other allocations, taxes, and deductions are taken out).
- Step 7: Save and Review. Click "Save" or "Submit". You should receive a confirmation message. Review the list of direct deposit accounts to ensure the new account is listed and the allocation is set correctly.
Mastering Paycheck Allocation: Splitting Deposits Across Multiple Accounts
One of Paylocity's most valuable features is the ability to split your net pay across multiple financial institutions, which is excellent for managing savings goals, separating funds for bills, or contributing to a secondary investment account. You can allocate funds in a specific order of priority.
How to Set Up a Split Deposit
The system processes allocations in the order you define them. To ensure funds are distributed as intended, you must use a combination of allocation types:
- Priority 1: Flat Amount (Savings Goal). Set your first account (e.g., a high-yield savings account) to receive a fixed Flat Dollar Amount, such as "$200.00" per pay period. This amount is taken out first.
- Priority 2: Percentage (Primary Bills). Set your second account (e.g., a checking account for rent and utilities) to receive a Percentage of the remaining pay, such as "50%".
- Priority 3: Remaining Net Pay (Spending Account). Set your final account (e.g., your primary spending checking account) to receive the "Remaining Net Pay". This ensures that 100% of your net earnings are accounted for, guaranteeing no funds are left in limbo.
Crucial Tip: You must always have one and only one account designated to receive the "Remaining Net Pay" to ensure your paycheck balances to zero.
Critical Timing and Troubleshooting: The Paylocity Pre-Notification Process
The most common cause of a delayed paycheck after a direct deposit change is a failure to understand the ACH pre-notification window and the company's internal payroll deadline. Understanding this timeline is essential for financial planning.
The Pre-Notification Timeline (The 10-Day Rule)
When you add a brand new bank account to Paylocity, the system initiates a mandatory bank verification process known as a "pre-note" or "pre-notification." This is a security measure required by the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network to confirm the account is valid and ready to receive funds.
- Verification Period: The pre-notification process typically takes 7 to 10 calendar days.
- Impact on Paycheck: During this pre-note period, Paylocity will not deposit funds into the new account. If your payroll date falls within this window, your company's payroll department will likely issue your pay via a paper check or a pay card instead of the new direct deposit.
- Action Required: To avoid receiving a paper check, you must complete the direct deposit change at least 10 days prior to the end of the current payroll cycle.
Common Errors and Troubleshooting
Even with the best intentions, errors can occur. Knowing how to troubleshoot common issues can save you significant time and stress.
1. Incorrect Routing or Account Number
This is the most frequent error. If the numbers are wrong, the pre-note will fail, and the bank will reject the transaction. The system will flag the account as invalid. You will need to re-enter the correct details and the 7–10 day pre-note window will start over. Always verify the numbers using a voided check or by calling your bank or credit union.
2. Missing the Payroll Deadline
Your company has an internal deadline for submitting payroll data to Paylocity, often 2–3 days before the actual payday. If you make a direct deposit change after this deadline, the change will not take effect until the *following* pay cycle, regardless of the pre-notification status.
3. Trying to Use the Mobile App
As noted, while the Paylocity mobile app is excellent for viewing pay stubs and time-off balances, direct deposit changes are usually disabled on the app. If you try to change it on your mobile device, the link may redirect you to a mobile-optimized web page, or simply fail. Always use a full desktop browser to ensure the change is successfully submitted.
4. Verification Takes Too Long
If 10 business days have passed and your pay is still not going to the new account, the first step is to contact your company's HR or Payroll Administrator. They have access to the back-end system and can view the exact status of the ACH pre-note and confirm if the account has been verified by the bank.
Summary of Key Direct Deposit Entities
Successfully managing your direct deposit on Paylocity relies on understanding several key terms and entities within the Human Capital Management (HCM) system:
- Employee Self-Service (ESS) Portal: The primary online platform for employees to manage personal and payroll information.
- Routing Number: The nine-digit code that identifies your financial institution.
- Account Number: Your specific bank account identifier.
- Pre-Notification (Pre-Note): The mandatory 7–10 day verification period for new bank accounts.
- Allocation: The method used to distribute your net pay (Flat Amount, Percentage, or Remaining Net Pay).
- Net Pay: Your total earnings after all taxes, benefits, and deductions have been withheld.
- ACH Network: The electronic network that processes all direct deposit and fund transfers in the United States.
- Payroll Administrator: The company contact responsible for managing the payroll process and troubleshooting issues.
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