More US companies hire remotely than ever — but their payroll systems still expect a US bank account and routing number. If you live outside the States, that one requirement can stand between you and a clean direct deposit. Here’s how to set it up properly, step by step.
What “direct deposit” actually needs
US payroll runs on ACH — the domestic bank-to-bank network. To receive it, your employer’s system only needs three things:
- An account number in your name
- A 9-digit routing number
- The account type (checking or savings)
Crucially, none of this requires US residency or a Social Security number — it requires a real US account. A virtual USD account gives you exactly that after identity verification.
Step 1 — Verify your identity (KYC)
Open your account and complete KYC with a passport or government ID. This is a one-time check, usually approved the same day. Once you’re verified, your account and routing numbers are issued.
Step 2 — Fill out the deposit form
Your employer will hand you a direct deposit authorization form (or a field in their payroll tool — Gusto, Deel, Rippling, ADP). Enter your new account number, routing number, and select “checking.” If they ask for a voided check, the account details are enough — payroll teams handle this routinely.
Step 3 — Expect a prenote, then payday
Many payroll systems send a $0 “prenote” first to validate the account — this can take 1–2 pay cycles. After that, deposits land automatically, typically settling within a business day of payroll running.
Watch-outs
- Name match. The account name must match your employment records, or the deposit may bounce.
- Checking vs savings. Pick checking for payroll unless told otherwise.
- Hold in USD. Don’t auto-convert every deposit — hold dollars and convert on your schedule to control the rate.
That’s it. Once payroll is pointed at your USD account, getting paid by a US employer feels exactly like it does for a colleague down the street — minus the wire fees.
