When incoming funds are distributed regularly, such as a paycheck or government distribution: 

direct deposit is preferred because the bank knows your deposit patters and will overdraw your account if you have insufficient funds. 

direct deposit is preferred because it offers a more efficient, timely, and secure method of distributing funds. 

direct deposit is preferred and you will earn more interest on a direct deposit. 

direct deposit is preferred because the risk of mistakes being made is removed and your account will be in balance