Your routing number is on the bottom left of your checks, in your bank's online portal, or one phone call away
Your routing number is a nine-digit code that tells the banking system which bank holds your account. You need it when you set up direct deposit, arrange wire transfers, or authorize automatic payments. The fastest way to find it is to look at a check from your account — the routing number is the first set of digits on the bottom left, before your account number.
If you do not have checks or prefer not to use them, your bank's website or mobile app will show your routing number in the account details section. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask for it directly. The number takes less than a minute to locate through any of these methods.
Key Takeaways
- The routing number appears on the bottom left of any check from your account, before your account number.
- You can find it in your bank's online portal or mobile app under account information or details.
- Calling your bank's customer service line will give you the routing number in under a minute.
- Different branches of the same bank may have different routing numbers, so use the one for your specific branch.
- The routing number is public information and safe to share — it only works with your account number for actual transactions.
Check the bottom of a paper check
If you have a checkbook, open it and look at any check. At the bottom left corner, you will see three sets of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first set is your routing number. It is always nine digits long.
The format looks like this: [routing number] | [account number] | [check number]. The routing number comes first, so you do not have to guess which is which. If your checks are old or from a different branch, the routing number may have changed — confirm it with your bank before using it for a critical transaction like payroll setup.
Log into your bank's website or app
Most banks display your routing number in the account details or account information section of their online portal. Log in, find the section labeled "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Routing and Account Numbers," and your routing number will be listed there.
The exact location varies by bank. Some banks put it on the main dashboard; others require you to click into a specific account. If you cannot find it after a quick search, use the search function within the app or website and type "routing number." You should land on the right page in seconds.
Call your bank's customer service line
If you do not have checks and cannot access your online account, 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. They will ask for your account number or the phone number associated with the account to verify your identity, then give you the number immediately.
This method takes about five minutes from start to finish. Have your account number or identification ready to speed up the process. Customer service lines are usually open during business hours and sometimes 24/7, depending on your bank.
Understand that routing numbers vary by branch and bank
Each bank has its own routing number, and some large banks have different routing numbers for different regions or branches. If you recently moved or switched branches, your routing number may have changed. Always confirm you have the correct routing number for your current branch before setting up direct deposit or automatic payments.
If you use the wrong routing number, the transaction may be rejected or delayed. Your bank can tell you in seconds whether the routing number you have is correct for your account. When in doubt, ask — it takes no time and prevents mistakes.
Use the ABA routing number database if you need to verify
The American Bankers Association (ABA) maintains a public database of routing numbers. You can search it at routingnumber.aba.org by entering your bank name and state. This is useful if you want to double-check a routing number you found or if you are trying to find the routing number for a bank you do not have an account with.
The database is free and does not require you to log in. Search results show the routing number, the bank name, and the city where that routing number is used. This tool is especially helpful if you are sending money to someone at a different bank and need to confirm their bank's routing number.
What to do if you cannot locate your routing number
If you have tried the online portal, checked your checks, and cannot reach customer service, visit your bank in person. Bring your ID and ask a teller for your routing number. They can print it for you or write it down on the spot.
You can also contact your bank through their website's chat or message feature if they offer it. Some banks respond to messages within a few hours. Routing numbers are public information, so any legitimate bank employee will give it to you without hesitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to give someone my routing number?
Yes. Your routing number is public information — it identifies your bank, not your account. Someone needs both your routing number and your account number to move money from your account, and even then, they typically need your permission or authorization. Sharing only your routing number poses no security risk.
Do all branches of the same bank have the same routing number?
Not always. Large banks may have different routing numbers for different regions or states. If you switched branches or moved, confirm your routing number with your current branch. Your bank's website or a quick phone call will clarify which routing number belongs to your specific account.
What if the routing number on my old checks is different from the one online?
Your bank may have merged with another bank, changed its routing number, or you may have moved to a different branch. Use the routing number from your bank's current online portal or from a recent check. If you are unsure, call your bank and ask which routing number is active for your account now.
Can I find my routing number on my debit card?
No. Your debit card shows your card number, expiration date, and CVV, but not your routing number. Use a check, your online account, or call your bank. The routing number is tied to your bank account, not your card.
Do I need my routing number to transfer money between my own accounts?
It depends on your bank. If both accounts are at the same bank, you usually do not need the routing number — the bank's system can move money between your accounts directly. If you are transferring to an account at a different bank, you will need the routing number for the receiving bank.