The fastest way: check your checks or bank statement
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 a recent bank statement — paper or digital — both numbers appear there too, usually near your account summary or in a section labeled "account details."
This is the quickest method if you have either document in front of you right now. You do not need to call anyone or log in anywhere.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number and account number are printed on the bottom left of your checks in that order: routing number first, then account number.
- Bank statements — whether paper or online — display both numbers in the account details section.
- Your bank's website or mobile app lets you find both numbers by logging in and viewing your account information.
- Calling your bank's customer service line gets you both numbers in minutes if you can verify your identity.
- The routing number stays the same for your bank; the account number is unique to your specific account.
Finding them on your bank's website or app
Log in to your bank's website or mobile app and look for a section called "Account Details," "Account Information," or "My Accounts." Both numbers are usually displayed prominently there. Some banks put them under a tab labeled "Routing Information" or "Bank Details."
If you cannot find them in the obvious places, look for a link that says "View Routing Number" or search the help section for "routing number." Most banks make this information easy to find because customers need it regularly for direct deposit, wire transfers, and bill payments.
Calling your bank directly
Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. Have your account number or card number ready so the representative can verify who you are. They will give you both your routing number and account number over the phone.
This method takes about five minutes and works even if you do not have checks or online access. The representative may ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions before releasing the information.
Using your bank's routing number finder tool
Many large banks have a routing number search tool on their website. You enter your state and sometimes your city, and the tool shows you the routing number for your branch. This works if you know which bank you use but have lost your checks and cannot log in online.
Keep in mind that the routing number is the same across all branches of the same bank in most cases, so you do not need to know your specific branch location. However, some banks have multiple routing numbers depending on the type of account or the state where you opened it, so confirm you have the right one for your account type.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
If you have your routing number but cannot locate your account number, call your bank. Your account number is unique to your specific account, so it cannot be looked up by routing number alone — the bank needs to verify your identity first. Once verified, they can provide it immediately.
Do not give your account number to anyone who calls you claiming to be from your bank. Real banks do not ask for account numbers unsolicited. If someone contacts you asking for it, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your card or statement.
Routing number versus account number: what each one does
The routing number identifies your bank or credit union. It is the same for everyone who banks there, and it tells the financial system which institution to send money to. The account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Together, they form a complete address for your money.
When you set up direct deposit for a tax refund or receive a wire transfer, you provide both numbers so the money goes to the right bank and the right account. If you give the correct routing number but wrong account number, the money goes to the right bank but the wrong person's account — which is why accuracy matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need both numbers for a tax refund?
Yes. The IRS uses both your routing number and account number to deposit your refund directly into your bank account. If either number is wrong, the refund may be delayed or sent to the wrong account. Double-check both before submitting your tax return.
Can I use the routing number from my checks if I switched banks?
No. If you closed your old account and opened a new one at a different bank, you need the routing number for your new bank. The old routing number will send money to the wrong institution. Get your new bank's routing number from a recent check, your statement, or by calling the new bank.
What if my bank has multiple routing numbers?
Some banks use different routing numbers for different states or account types. Check your statement or the bottom of your checks — the routing number printed there is the correct one for your specific account. When in doubt, call your bank and confirm which routing number to use for direct deposit.
Is it safe to share my routing and account number?
Your routing number is public information — it is printed on every check. Your account number is semi-private. Together, they are safe to share with your employer for direct deposit, with the IRS for refunds, or with trusted financial institutions. Never share them with someone who contacts you unsolicited.