The fastest way: look at the bottom left of a check
Your routing number and checking account number both appear on the bottom of any check you have. The routing number is the first set of nine digits on the left. Your checking account number comes next, usually nine to twelve digits. If you have checks in front of you right now, that is the quickest answer.
The numbers print in a special magnetic ink format called MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition), which is why they look slightly different from the rest of the text on the check. The routing number identifies which bank or credit union holds your account. The account number identifies your specific account at that bank.
If you do not have a check handy or prefer not to write down numbers from one, there are other ways to find both numbers without leaving your house.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number and account number both print at the bottom left of any check you own, in the order: routing number first, then account number.
- Your bank's website or mobile app will show both numbers in the account details or settings section, usually under a heading like "Account Information" or "Routing Details."
- You can call your bank's customer service line and provide your name and account details to have them read the numbers to you over the phone.
- Some banks print these numbers on statements or deposit slips, though not all do, so checking your most recent statement is worth trying first.
- The routing number stays the same for your entire bank or credit union, but your account number is unique to you and should never be shared with people you do not trust.
Finding the numbers through your bank's website or app
Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for a section labeled "Account Information," "Account Details," "Routing Information," or "Bank Details." Most banks place this in the settings menu or under a tab that shows your account summary. The routing number and account number will be listed there, often with a button to copy them or view them in full.
If you cannot find the section after a quick look, use the search function within the app or website and type "routing number" or "account number." Most banks index these pages so they come up immediately. Some banks also display the information on your account dashboard the moment you log in, especially if you have recently set up direct deposit or a transfer.
This method is safer than carrying checks around or writing the numbers down by hand, since you are viewing them in a secure, logged-in environment.
Calling your bank to get the numbers read to you
Find the customer service phone number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Call and tell the representative you need your routing number and account number. They will ask you to verify your identity—usually by providing your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or account number.
Once verified, the representative will read both numbers to you. Write them down as they speak, or ask them to repeat the numbers slowly if you need to. This method works even if you do not have online access or a device handy, and it is a legitimate way to retrieve the information.
Wait times vary by bank and time of day. Calling early in the morning on a weekday usually means shorter hold times than calling in the afternoon or on weekends.
Checking your bank statement or deposit slip
Some banks print the routing number and account number on monthly statements or on deposit slips that come in your checkbook. Pull out your most recent statement and look at the top or bottom of the page, or check any blank deposit slips you may have. Not all banks include this information on statements, so this method does not always work, but it is worth checking before you try another route.
If your bank does print these numbers on statements, they are usually in a section labeled "Account Information" or near your account number at the top of the page. Deposit slips, when they include the numbers, typically print them at the bottom in the same MICR format as checks.
What to do if you cannot find your numbers
If you have tried the methods above and still cannot locate your routing number and account number, contact your bank directly by phone or visit a branch in person. Bring a photo ID so the teller can verify your identity. They can print out a form with both numbers or write them down for you on the spot.
Some banks also send this information by mail if you request it, though this takes several days. If you need the numbers urgently—for example, to set up direct deposit for a paycheck or a refund—calling or visiting a branch is faster.
Why you need these numbers and how to keep them safe
Your routing number and account number are needed for direct deposit, wire transfers, automatic bill payments, and tax refund delivery. Many government refunds and business payments use these numbers to deposit money directly into your account, which is why you may need them when setting up a refund or payment.
The routing number alone is not sensitive information—it is public and identifies only your bank, not your account. Your account number, however, should be treated like sensitive financial information. Do not share it with people you do not trust, and do not type it into websites unless you are certain the site is legitimate and secure. If you are unsure whether a website or caller is legitimate, hang up or close the browser and call your bank directly using the number on your debit card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number the same for everyone at my bank?
Yes. All customers of the same bank or credit union branch typically share the same routing number. If you have multiple accounts at the same bank, they all use the same routing number. Your account number is what makes each account unique.
Can I use the routing number from an old check?
Usually yes, but not always. If your bank merged with another bank or changed its name, the routing number may have changed. Check your most recent statement or call your bank to confirm the current routing number before using an old check.
What if I see different numbers on my check than on my online account?
This is rare but can happen if your account was recently transferred or if the check is very old. Call your bank to confirm which numbers are current. Use the numbers from your online account or from a recent statement, not from old checks.
Do I need both numbers for direct deposit or a wire transfer?
For direct deposit and most automatic transfers, you need both the routing number and account number. Some forms ask for them separately; others ask you to enter them together. Your employer or the organization sending the payment will tell you which format they need.
Is it safe to text or email my routing and account number?
Your routing number alone is safe to share by text or email since it is public information. Your account number should not be texted or emailed unless you are certain you are communicating with your bank or a trusted organization. When in doubt, call the organization directly using a phone number from their official website or your debit card.