The fastest way to find your routing number
Your routing number is printed on the bottom left of any check from your account — it's the first set of nine digits before your account number. If you don't have checks handy, log into your bank's website or mobile app, go to account details or settings, and look for "routing number" or "ABA number" (they mean the same thing). You can also call your bank's customer service line and give them your account number; they'll read it to you over the phone.
If you've closed that account or switched banks, you can still find the old routing number online. Search "[your bank name] routing number" plus your state — most banks list routing numbers by branch location on their website. The Federal Reserve also maintains a searchable database at frbservices.org if you know your bank's name and state.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of any check, before your account number.
- Online banking portals show your routing number in account details or settings sections.
- Calling your bank's customer service line gets you the number in under five minutes.
- The Federal Reserve's routing number database works if your bank's website doesn't list it clearly.
- Routing numbers are public information and safe to share for direct deposits or wire transfers.
Finding it through your bank's website or app
Most banks display your routing number without requiring you to dig. Open your bank's website or app, sign in, and look for a section labeled "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Settings." Some banks put it under "Direct Deposit Information" or "Wire Transfer Details." The routing number is usually a nine-digit code listed right next to your account number.
If you can't find it in those places, try the bank's FAQ or help section and search for "routing number." Many banks have a dedicated page that lists routing numbers for each branch or region. Write down both your routing number and account number together — you'll need both for direct deposits, wire transfers, or setting up automatic payments.
Checking a physical check
Look at the bottom of any check from your account. You'll see three groups of numbers separated by colons or special symbols. The first group (leftmost) is your routing number — always nine digits. The middle group is your account number. The rightmost group is the check number.
This method works even if your account is old or closed, as long as you have an old check. The routing number doesn't change when you close an account, so an old check is just as valid as a new one for finding the number. If the print is faded or hard to read, you can still use the other methods instead.
Calling your bank directly
Pick up the phone and call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Tell the representative you need your routing number. Have your account number ready — they'll ask for it to pull up your account. They'll read the routing number to you, and you can write it down on the spot.
This is the slowest method if you're in a hurry (you may wait on hold), but it's the most reliable if you're unsure whether you have the right number. Customer service can also confirm whether the routing number is correct for the specific branch where you opened your account, since some large banks use different routing numbers by location.
Using the Federal Reserve's routing number database
Go to frbservices.org and click on "Fedwire Directory" or search for their routing number lookup tool. Enter your bank's name and the state where your account is located. The database will return a list of routing numbers for that bank, usually organized by branch or region.
This method works best if you know your bank's name and state but can't reach the bank directly or access your online account. The database is maintained by the Federal Reserve and is updated regularly, so the numbers are current. If your bank has multiple routing numbers (common for large national banks), you may need to identify which branch your account belongs to in order to pick the right one.
What to do if you can't find your routing number
If you've tried the methods above and still can't locate it, contact your bank's customer service by phone, email, or in person at a branch. Bring your ID and account information. This is the most direct route when other options fail, and staff can verify your identity before giving you the number.
You can also ask your employer's payroll department or the organization handling a direct deposit — they often have your routing number on file from when you set up the deposit. If you're setting up a wire transfer or automatic payment, the receiving institution can sometimes look up your routing number if you give them your bank name and account number, though this varies by organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same as my account number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank or branch (nine digits, on the left of a check). Your account number identifies your specific account at that bank (usually 10 to 12 digits, in the middle of a check). You need both for direct deposits and wire transfers.
Do I need a routing number for online bill pay?
Not always. Many online bill pay systems let you enter just your account number and bank name, and they look up the routing number automatically. Some require it explicitly. Check what your bank's bill pay form asks for before you start.
Can I use an old routing number if my bank merged or changed names?
Usually yes, but not always. If your bank was acquired or merged, your routing number may have changed. Call your bank or check your most recent statement to confirm. Using an outdated routing number can cause direct deposits or transfers to fail or be delayed.
What if my bank has multiple routing numbers?
Large banks often have different routing numbers for different regions or branches. Use the routing number that matches the branch or state where your account is located. Your bank's website usually lists routing numbers by location, or customer service can tell you which one applies to your account.
Is it safe to give someone my routing number?
Yes. Your routing number is public information — it's printed on every check you write. You need to share it for direct deposits, wire transfers, and automatic payments. Never share your full account number or PIN with anyone you don't trust, but the routing number alone cannot be used to access your account.