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 nine digits, the account number follows it. If you have checks in front of you right now, that is the quickest answer.
If you do not have checks or do not want to dig for them, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Most banks display both numbers in the account details or settings section — often labeled "Account Information," "Account Summary," or "Routing Information." The exact location varies by bank, but it is usually one or two clicks from your main account view.
Some banks also print these numbers on your debit card statement or in the welcome packet they sent when you opened the account. If you kept that paperwork, the numbers are there.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number and account number appear on the bottom left of any check you own — routing number first, then account number.
- Log into your bank's website or app and look for "Account Information" or "Account Summary" to find both numbers without a check.
- Call your bank's customer service line if you cannot find the numbers online; they can read them to you over the phone with proof of identity.
- The routing number is the same for all customers at your bank's branch; the account number is unique to you alone.
- You need both numbers to set up direct deposit, receive wire transfers, or authorize automatic payments from your account.
Calling your bank if you cannot find them online
If you do not have checks and cannot locate the numbers in your online account, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Have your account password or PIN ready, because the bank will ask you to verify your identity before reading the numbers aloud.
The wait time varies — some banks answer in minutes, others in 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy they are. If you call during business hours on a weekday, you will usually reach someone faster than on evenings or weekends.
Write down both numbers as the representative reads them. Ask them to repeat each one so you have it right the first time.
Finding your routing number without your account number
If you only need the routing number — for example, to set up direct deposit at a new job — you do not need your account number. The routing number is the same for everyone at your bank, so you can search online for "[Your Bank Name] routing number" and find it instantly.
The American Bankers Association maintains a searchable database at routingnumber.aba.org where you can enter your bank name and state to confirm the correct nine-digit code. This is especially useful if you have moved or switched banks and are not sure which routing number is current.
Be careful to use the routing number for the specific branch or location where you opened your account. Some large banks have different routing numbers for different regions or divisions.
What these numbers actually do
The routing number tells the banking system which bank to send money to. It is like the address on an envelope — it gets the payment to the right institution. All customers at the same bank branch share the same routing number.
The account number tells the bank which specific account within that bank should receive the money. It is like your apartment number — the routing number gets the mail to the building, and the account number gets it to your door. Your account number is unique to you and no one else at your bank has it.
Together, these two numbers form a complete address for your money. When you set up direct deposit, authorize a wire transfer, or arrange automatic bill payments, you are giving the other party the routing and account numbers so they know exactly where to send or pull funds from.
Protecting your routing and account numbers
Your routing number is public information — it is printed on your checks for anyone to see, and it is the same for thousands of people at your bank. You do not need to keep it secret.
Your account number is more sensitive. Do not share it with anyone unless you are setting up a legitimate transaction like direct deposit or a wire transfer. If someone calls or emails asking for your account number without you initiating contact, do not give it to them. Scammers sometimes pose as banks to collect this information.
If you suspect someone has your account number and you did not authorize it, contact your bank immediately. They can monitor the account for unauthorized activity and issue you a new account number if needed.
When you need both numbers versus just one
Most situations require both numbers. Direct deposit from your employer, wire transfers from another bank, and automatic bill payments all need the routing number to find your bank and the account number to find your specific account within that bank.
A few situations need only the routing number. If you are just confirming which bank you use, or if you are setting up a payment where the bank asks for your full account details separately, you might only be asked for the routing number at that moment.
When in doubt, have both numbers ready. It is faster than having to look one up later if the form asks for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same as my bank's main routing number?
Usually yes, but not always. Some large banks have multiple routing numbers for different regions or divisions. Check your checks or your online account to confirm you have the routing number for your specific branch, not just the bank's general number.
Can I use someone else's routing and account number to send them money?
Yes. If someone gives you their routing and account number, you can use those to send them a wire transfer or set up a payment to their account. This is how direct deposit and bill payments work — you are using someone else's routing and account numbers to move money to them.
What if my bank does not show the routing number online?
Call customer service. Some smaller banks or credit unions do not display it prominently in their online systems, but they can read it to you over the phone. Have your account password ready for verification.
Do I need a new routing number if I move to a different state?
No. Your routing number stays the same even if you move. It is tied to your bank and branch, not your address. Your account number also does not change when you move.
Can I find my routing number on my debit card?
Not usually. Debit cards do not print routing numbers. You will find it on your checks, in your online banking account, or by calling your bank. Some banks print it on statements, so check those if you have them.