What is direct deposit? How Modak helps you set it up for your kids

Modak
February 11, 2025

Main takeaways

🥸 Direct deposit is an electronic payment method that moves funds from one bank account to another without paper checks.

đź’¸ Commonly used for payroll, government benefits, and tax refunds.

👩🏼 Parents can automate transfers to their kids' accounts, reducing the need for manual transactions.

If you’re a parent looking for a reliable way to manage your child’s finances and teach them valuable money management skills, Modak Makers offers a seamless direct deposit feature that could be the game-changer you need. But how exactly does this feature work, and why should you consider it over traditional bank transfers? Stick around, and we'll answer all your questions about direct deposit—and show how Modak makes it even better.

**The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as tax advice. It is not coming from a tax professional or consultant. We recommend reaching out to a qualified tax professional to ensure that the strategies discussed are applicable to your specific situation and to obtain personalized advice based on your individual circumstances. Always consult a tax expert to ensure compliance with current laws and to make informed decisions.

What is a direct deposit?

Direct deposit is an electronic payment method that transfers funds directly from one bank account to another without using paper checks. It’s commonly used for payroll, government benefits, tax refunds, and other regular payments.

When parents set up direct deposit for their kids, they can ensure that money is transferred securely and automatically into their child’s account. This eliminates the need for cash or manual transfers, providing a convenient and fast way for parents to manage funds for their children.

With Modak, this process becomes even more convenient and child-friendly.

Benefits of direct deposit:

  • No need to handle cash
  • Faster than paper checks
  • Safe and secure
  • Convenient for recurring payments

How does direct deposit work?

Direct deposit works by transferring money electronically through the automated clearing house (ACH) network. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:

  1. Set up: You provide your bank or employer with the necessary details, including the account number and routing number.
  2. Initiation: When it's time for the payment (e.g., payroll day), the sender’s bank sends the funds to the ACH network.
  3. Deposit: The ACH network processes the payment and deposits the funds into the recipient’s bank account.

With Modak, setting up direct deposit is simple. You can find the child’s unique routing and account number in the Modak app and share it with your bank or payroll provider1.

Is direct deposit the same as a bank transfer?

No, direct deposit and bank transfers are not the same. Although both involve moving money electronically, there are key differences:

Modak’s direct deposit feature ensures faster, automated payments for your kids, making it the better option for recurring funds like allowances and chore payments1.

Why you should use Modak direct deposit feature?

💸 Automated transfers for allowances, chore payments, and recurring funds—no manual transactions needed.

đź“Š Real-time tracking and financial education to help kids learn budgeting and saving.

🏦 Multiple funding sources, including parents, employers, and government benefits, plus MBX rewards for smart financial habits.

Start your financial journey now!

Everything you need, fast, safe and simple.

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How to set up direct deposit in Modak 

Setting up direct deposit in the Modak parent app is straightforward:

For your child’s account:

  1. Open the Modak parent app.
  2. Tap on your child’s name at the top of the screen to access their account.
  3. Select details, where you will find their routing number and account number.
  4. Share these details with your bank or payroll provider.

For your own (parent’s) account:

  1. Open the Modak parent app.
  2. Go to the profile icon.
  3. Your account details, including your routing number and account number, will be displayed.
  4. Share these details with your bank or payroll provider.

Once it’s set up, funds will be deposited directly into your child’s Modak account. It’s that easy!

Why use direct deposit with Modak?

Many banks offer direct deposit services, but Modak takes a step further by integrating financial education and rewards into the process. Here’s what makes Modak’s direct deposit feature unique:

1. Multiple funding sources

Modak allows direct deposits from:

  • Employers (for teens with jobs)
  • Parents’ bank accounts
  • Government payments (like tax refunds or child benefits)

2. In-app tracking and notifications

Parents and kids can track their transactions in real-time through the Modak app. Plus, Modak’s 24/7 customer support ensures you’re never left in the dark.

3. Financial education integration

With Modak, parents can use direct deposit as an opportunity to teach kids about money management, saving, and budgeting directly within the app, helping to build strong financial habits.

What time do direct deposits hit?

While funds are typically available within 1 business day, the exact timing can vary depending on the bank, payroll system, and processing schedules. In some cases, funds may be available on the same day, but settlement times can range from 1 to 5 business days, depending on the institutions involved and their respective processing times.

Modak ensures funds are available as soon as they hit your child’s account, so there’s no unnecessary waiting.

Direct deposit vs. wire transfer: what’s the difference?

Many parents wonder whether they should use direct deposits or wire transfers. Here’s a quick comparison:

For parents, direct deposit through Modak is ideal for recurring transfers like allowances and savings contributions.

How kids can earn money with Modak

Modak isn’t just about receiving money—it’s about teaching kids to manage and earn money responsibly.

MBX rewards system

  • Kids can earn MBX points by completing challenges and daily tasks.2
  • These points can be converted into real money and spent using their Modak Visa® debit card.

Walk to earn

  • Kids can earn 10 MBX per day by walking 5,000 steps.
  • Over a week, this can add up to 70 MBX.(2)(3)

These gamified earning options make Modak a unique financial tool for kids and teens.

Modak makes managing money easy for families with kid-friendly direct deposit features. 

Mon using the direct deposit feature with his son

Setting up direct deposit with Modak is more than just a convenient way to transfer money—it’s a way to empower your child with financial knowledge and responsibility.

  • Automated allowances: No more missed payments.
  • Real-time tracking: Know where the money is going.
  • Gamified earning: Kids learn to earn and save through MBX challenges.

Whether it’s for allowances, chore payments, or even a teen’s first job paycheck, Modak’s direct deposit feature is a game-changer for modern families.

Ready to get started? Download the Modak app and set up your child’s direct deposit today. It’s fast, secure, and helps teach kids valuable financial skills

Frequently asked questions about direct deposit

What is a direct deposit form?

A direct deposit form is a document that provides your bank or employer with your account details to set up direct deposit payments.

What is a direct deposit?

A direct deposit is an electronic payment sent directly to your bank account.

Is direct deposit a payment?

Yes, direct deposit is a payment method used to transfer money electronically.

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  1. Modak is a financial technology company and not a FDIC-insured bank.Checking account and the Modak Visa® debit card issued by Lewis & Clark Bank, Member FDIC. Funds deposited into checking account may be eligible for up to $250,000 of FDIC insurance. The FDIC’s deposit insurance coverage only protects against the failure of an FDIC-insured depository institution.
  2. 100 MBX = $1(as of June 2024). This is an approximation and not a guaranteed result. For more information on MBX, click here.‍
  3. Walking 5,000 steps a day gives users 10MBX (as of June 2024). This is subject to change at Modak’s discretion
  4. Fees for expedited or premium services may apply. Find out more in our Cardholder agreement.
  5. Fees for expedited or premium services may apply.  Modak charges $0.50 for debit cards (and 3% extra for credit cards and Apple/Google Pay) when you load your kid’s modak card with your debit or credit cards. Do note that our normal ACH - funding via your other bank accounts - is free if next day option is selected.
  6. Review your bank's terms and conditions for more information on the fee schedule.
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