The fastest way to find your routing number
Your bank's routing number is printed on the bottom left of every check you have from that bank. Look at the first set of nine digits on the bottom of the check — that is your routing number. If you do not have checks, you can find it in three other places: your bank's website, a call to customer service, or your online banking login.
The routing number stays the same for your bank and branch, so you only need to find it once. It does not change when you open a new account or get a new debit card. If you switch banks, you will need a new routing number for that bank.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of any check from your bank, as the first nine-digit sequence.
- You can also find it by logging into your online banking account, calling your bank's customer service line, or visiting your bank's website.
- The routing number is specific to your bank and branch, not to your individual account.
- You will need both your routing number and your account number together when setting up direct deposit or wire transfers.
Finding it through your bank's website
Most banks post their routing number on their website in a section labeled "Routing Number," "Bank Information," or "Customer Service." Search the site for "routing number" or look under a Help or FAQ section. Some banks list different routing numbers for different transaction types — wire transfers, ACH transfers, and check clearing sometimes use different numbers, though many banks use one routing number for all purposes.
If you cannot find it on the main site, try searching "[Your Bank Name] routing number" in a search engine. The bank's official page usually appears first. Write down the routing number and the branch location it is tied to, since some larger banks have multiple routing numbers by region.
Calling your bank directly
The customer service number is on the back of your debit card, on your bank statements, or on the bank's website. When you call, tell them you need your routing number. They will give it to you over the phone in seconds. Have your account number ready — they may ask for it to confirm they are speaking to the right person, though some banks will give out the routing number without it since it is not secret information.
If you are calling outside business hours, many banks have an automated system that will read your routing number if you enter your account number on the keypad. This is faster than waiting for a representative during the day.
Using your online banking account
Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for a section called "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Statements." Your routing number is often displayed alongside your account number. Some banks require you to click into a specific account to see its routing number, while others show it on the main dashboard.
If you cannot find it in the obvious places, look for a link to "Direct Deposit Setup" or "Wire Transfer Instructions" — these pages almost always display your routing number because customers need it to complete those transactions. You can also download a recent statement; many banks print the routing number at the top or bottom of the PDF.
What to do if you have multiple accounts or banks
Each bank has one routing number per branch, not per account. If you have a checking account and a savings account at the same bank and branch, they share the same routing number. If you have accounts at two different banks, each bank has its own routing number. If your bank has multiple branches and you opened an account at a different location, the routing number may differ — check with the branch where you opened the account.
When you are setting up direct deposit or a wire transfer, use the routing number for the bank where the account actually sits, not where you opened it. If you are unsure which branch your account is tied to, your statement or online banking profile will show it.
Routing number versus account number
Your routing number identifies the bank. Your account number identifies your specific account at that bank. Together, they tell a payment system exactly where to send money. You need both for direct deposit, wire transfers, and ACH payments. The routing number is the same for everyone at your bank and branch; the account number is unique to you.
When you give out your routing and account numbers for direct deposit or bill pay, you are not giving out anything that puts your account at risk by itself. Routing numbers are public information — they are printed on checks. However, do not share your account number with people you do not trust, since that combined with the routing number could allow unauthorized transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number the same for all branches of my bank?
No. Large banks often have different routing numbers by region or state. A Wells Fargo branch in California may have a different routing number than a Wells Fargo branch in Texas. Check with your specific branch or look at your statement to confirm you have the right one for where your account is held.
Can I use someone else's routing number to send them money?
Yes. The routing number is public information. If you are sending money to someone at a specific bank, you need their bank's routing number and their account number. You can find a bank's routing number online without knowing the person.
What if my bank merged with another bank?
After a merger, your routing number may change. Your bank will notify you and update your online banking profile. Check your most recent statement or log into your account to see the current routing number. If you have automatic payments or direct deposit set up, contact your bank to confirm whether you need to update those with a new routing number.
Do I need a different routing number for wire transfers versus ACH transfers?
Most banks use one routing number for all transfer types. However, some larger banks have separate routing numbers for wire transfers and ACH transfers. When you are setting up a transfer, the bank or payment service will tell you which routing number to use. When in doubt, call your bank and specify the type of transfer you are making.
What if I cannot find my routing number anywhere?
Call your bank's customer service line — the number is on your debit card or statement. They will give you the routing number in under a minute. You can also visit a branch in person with your ID and ask. There is no charge for this information.