The fastest way: check your checks or online banking
Your routing number and account number are printed on the bottom left of every check you have. The routing number is the first set of nine digits, the account number follows it. If you have checks, you can read both numbers in under a minute.
If you do not have checks or prefer not to use them, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Most banks display both numbers in the account details or settings section — look for a tab labeled "Account Information," "Account Details," or "Routing Number." Some banks require you to click through to a specific page; others show the numbers on your main dashboard.
If you cannot find them online, call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card. Have your account number or card number ready, and they will give you both numbers over the phone in seconds.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number (nine digits) and account number appear on the bottom left of any check you own.
- Online banking portals show both numbers under account details or settings, usually without needing to call.
- Your bank's customer service line can provide both numbers immediately if you have your account or card number ready.
- The routing number stays the same for your entire bank; the account number is unique to your specific account.
- You will need both numbers for direct deposit, wire transfers, and refund delivery to your bank account.
What each number means and why you need them
The routing number identifies your bank or credit union — it tells the Federal Reserve and other financial institutions where to send money. Every bank has one routing number, sometimes more than one if the bank has multiple processing centers. The routing number never changes for your bank.
The account number identifies your specific account within that bank. It is unique to you and stays the same as long as you keep the account open. When you give someone both numbers, they know exactly which bank to send money to and which account within that bank to deposit it into.
You need both numbers together for direct deposit (paychecks, tax refunds, government payments), wire transfers, and ACH transfers — the electronic system most banks use to move money between accounts. If you are waiting for a refund and the issuer asks for your banking information, they will ask for both numbers.
Finding your routing number if you bank online only
Banks that operate only online, such as Ally, Charles Schwab, or Chime, still have routing numbers — they just do not issue paper checks by default. Log into your account and look for "Account Details," "Account Settings," or "Routing Information." Most online banks display this information prominently because they know customers need it.
If you cannot find it on the website, the bank's mobile app usually has the same information in the same place. If neither works, email or message the bank through the app; they will send you both numbers within hours. Do not call — online banks rarely have phone support, but they respond to written requests quickly.
You can also search "[your bank name] routing number" online. Most banks publish their routing numbers on their websites, and the number will be the same one shown in your account.
What to do if you have multiple accounts at the same bank
Each account has its own account number, but they all share the same routing number. If you have a checking account and a savings account at the same bank, the routing number is identical for both — only the account number changes.
Make sure you are looking at the account number for the specific account where you want the money to go. If you are expecting a tax refund and you want it in your savings account, use the account number for savings, not checking. The routing number stays the same either way.
Verifying your numbers are correct before you submit them
Double-check both numbers before you give them to anyone. A single wrong digit in either number can send money to the wrong bank or the wrong account, and recovering it takes weeks.
The easiest way to verify: write down the numbers from your check or your online banking portal, then log back in and check them again. If they match both times, they are correct. If you are submitting them to a government agency or a large refund processor, many will let you enter the numbers and then display them back to you for confirmation before you submit — read that confirmation screen carefully.
If you are unsure, call your bank and read the numbers to them. They can confirm whether they are correct for your account in seconds.
When you cannot find your account number
If you have no checks and cannot access online banking, call your bank's customer service line. You will need to verify your identity — usually by providing your name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or your debit card number. After verification, they will give you both numbers.
If you have a debit card, the bank's number is on the back. If you have a statement in the mail, your account number appears at the top. If you have none of these, a visit to a branch with a photo ID will get you the information in person.
Routing numbers for wire transfers and ACH payments
The routing number you use for direct deposit is the same one you use for wire transfers and ACH payments — it is always the same for your bank. However, some large banks have different routing numbers depending on where the account was opened or what type of account it is. If you are doing a wire transfer and the bank tells you to use a different routing number than the one on your checks, use the one the bank gives you.
For tax refunds, insurance refunds, and government payments, the routing number on your checks is almost always correct. If the system rejects it, call your bank and ask if there is an alternate routing number for ACH deposits — most banks will say no, but some will provide one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone steal money from my account if they have my routing and account number?
They can attempt an unauthorized ACH transfer, but banks have fraud protection. Report any unauthorized transfer to your bank immediately — most banks reverse fraudulent ACH transfers within one to three business days. Your routing and account number alone cannot be used to withdraw cash or make purchases; a thief would need additional information or access to your card or online login.
Is it safe to give my routing and account number to the IRS or a state tax agency?
Yes. Government agencies use this information only to deposit refunds. They do not use it to withdraw money. The same applies to insurance companies, employers, and other legitimate organizations requesting it for direct deposit or refund purposes.
What if the routing number on my check does not match what my bank shows online?
This is rare but can happen if your bank merged with another bank or changed processing centers. Use the routing number your bank shows in online banking or tells you over the phone — it is the current, correct one. The number on old checks may be outdated.
Do I need a different routing number for each type of transfer?
No. The same routing number works for direct deposit, wire transfers, ACH transfers, and refund deposits. Your bank has one routing number for all electronic transfers.
What if I close my account — do I need a new routing and account number?
Yes. When you close an account, that account number becomes inactive. If you open a new account at the same bank, you get a new account number, though the routing number stays the same. If you are expecting a refund after closing an account, update your banking information with the issuer before they process the payment.