It also lets people update bank account information so that the IRS can send a direct deposit rather than a check, speeding up the payment process. Here's how to decode the different status messages you might receive:'Payment status not available'There are several reasons you might be getting this vague message. At this time, those who see a "Payment status not available" message are not able to input bank account information to help speed up the process. But the IRS does not have your bank account information on file and the tool will prompt you to input that information. This might happen if you recently uploaded your bank account information to the IRS site.