Where to find your account and routing numbers
Your account number is printed on the bottom left of every check you write. Your routing number is the nine-digit code printed just to the left of your account number on the same line. If you have checks, you already have both numbers in front of you.
If you do not have checks or cannot read them clearly, your bank's website is the fastest place to look. Log into your online banking portal, navigate to your account details or account summary page, and both numbers appear there. Most banks display them under a section labeled "Account Information" or "Account Details."
You can also call your bank's customer service line — the number is on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement — and ask for both numbers. A representative can read them to you over the phone or email them to you. This takes five to ten minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number and routing number both appear on the bottom of your checks, with the routing number to the left of the account number.
- Log into your bank's website and look for the account details or account information section to find both numbers without writing a check.
- Your bank's customer service line can provide both numbers immediately if you call with your account holder information.
- The routing number is the same for all customers at your bank branch; the account number is unique to you.
- Some banks print these numbers on statements or debit cards, though checks and online banking are the most reliable sources.
Finding your routing number by bank name and location
If you know your bank's name and your branch location, you can find your routing number without logging in. The Federal Reserve maintains a routing number database that you can search by bank name and state. Go to the Federal Reserve's website, use their routing number search tool, and enter your bank name and the state where your branch is located.
Keep in mind that large banks often have multiple routing numbers depending on which state your account was opened in or which branch you use. If you search and get several results, call your bank to confirm which routing number belongs to your specific branch or account.
What your account number tells you
Your account number is unique to you and your specific account at your bank. It is usually between 8 and 17 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank. This number stays the same as long as you keep the account open, even if you move to a different branch or the bank merges with another institution.
Never share your full account number with anyone unless you initiated the request — for example, when you are setting up a direct deposit with your employer or paying a bill. Scammers sometimes call or email asking for account numbers under false pretenses. Your bank will never ask for your full account number by phone or email unless you called them first.
Understanding your routing number
Your routing number identifies your specific bank branch, not you personally. All customers at the same branch of the same bank share the same routing number. The routing number tells the banking system where to send money when you receive a direct deposit or when someone pays you by electronic transfer.
The routing number is safe to share. You need to give it to your employer for direct deposit, to the Social Security Administration if you receive benefits, to your insurance company if they owe you a refund, and to anyone else sending you money electronically. Unlike your account number, sharing your routing number alone does not put your account at risk.
Routing numbers for online banks and credit unions
Online banks and credit unions work the same way as traditional banks — they have routing numbers and account numbers. If you bank with an online-only institution like Ally or Charles Schwab, log into your account online and look for account details. The routing number and account number appear in the same place they would at a brick-and-mortar bank.
Credit unions also have routing numbers. If you are a member of a credit union, you can find your routing number on your checks, in your online banking portal, or by calling the credit union's main line. Credit union routing numbers work identically to bank routing numbers for direct deposits and electronic transfers.
What to do if you cannot find your numbers
If you have lost access to your online banking account, do not have checks, and cannot reach customer service by phone, visit your bank branch in person. Bring a photo ID and your debit card. A teller can print both numbers for you on the spot, usually within a few minutes.
If your bank has closed or merged with another bank, contact the new bank that now holds your account. They can provide your routing number (which may have changed) and confirm your account number. If you cannot locate the new bank, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) maintains a database of bank mergers and can tell you which institution now holds your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to give someone my routing number?
Yes. Your routing number identifies your bank branch but not your specific account. You need to share it for direct deposits, bill payments, and wire transfers. It is not sensitive information on its own.
Can someone access my account with just my routing number?
No. A routing number alone cannot access your account. Someone would need both your routing number and your account number, plus additional verification, to move money from your account. Sharing only your routing number is safe.
Do I need both numbers for direct deposit?
Yes. Your employer needs both your routing number and your account number to set up direct deposit. The routing number tells the bank where to send the money; the account number tells the bank which account to deposit it into.
What if my bank has multiple routing numbers?
Large banks often have different routing numbers for different states or regions. Use the routing number for the state where your account was opened or where your branch is located. If you are unsure, call your bank and confirm which routing number applies to your account.
Will my routing number change if I move to a different branch?
Usually not. Your routing number is tied to the location where your account was originally opened. If you move and switch to a different branch, your routing number typically stays the same. Call your bank to confirm if you are concerned.