The fastest way: check a check you've written
Open your checkbook and look at the bottom left corner of any check. You will see three sets of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first set — usually nine digits — is your bank's routing number. The second set is your account number. The third is the check number itself.
This works because banks print the routing number on every check they issue. If you do not have checks or cannot find them, move to the next method.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears at the bottom left of any check you have written, as the first nine-digit sequence.
- Your bank's website has a routing number lookup tool, usually under "Customer Service" or "Contact Us," and works even if you do not have a check.
- Calling your bank's customer service line and providing your account number will get you the routing number in under a minute.
- The Federal Reserve's routing number database is public and searchable by bank name and state if you need to verify a number.
- Routing numbers are specific to the branch or region where you opened your account, so two people at the same bank may have different numbers.
Search your bank's website
Log into your online banking account and look for a section labeled "Account Information," "Routing Number," or "Bank Details." Most banks display this information on the account summary page or under a "Help" or "Customer Service" tab. Some banks hide it behind a link that says "Where is my routing number?" or "Account and routing numbers."
If you cannot find it on the main site, try searching the bank's help center or FAQ section for "routing number." You can also search "[your bank name] routing number" in Google — the bank's official page usually appears first, and it often has a direct link to the lookup tool.
Call your bank's customer service line
The phone number is on the back of your debit card, on your bank statements, or on the bank's website. When you call, have your account number ready. Tell the representative you need your routing number. They will give it to you immediately — this takes less than a minute.
If you are calling outside business hours, some banks have automated systems that will read your routing number aloud after you enter your account number. Check the bank's website to see if this option is available.
Visit a branch in person
Walk into any branch of your bank with your ID and ask for your routing number. A teller can write it down for you on the spot. This is useful if you prefer face-to-face confirmation or if you have other banking questions at the same time.
You do not need an appointment. Most branches are open during standard business hours, though some have extended evening or weekend hours — check your bank's website for the location nearest you.
Use the Federal Reserve's routing number database
The Federal Reserve maintains a public database of all routing numbers issued to banks in the United States. Go to frbservices.org and click "Fedwire Directory" or search for "Federal Reserve routing number lookup." You can search by bank name, city, and state.
This method works if you know your bank's name and location but have lost your account information. Keep in mind that routing numbers can vary by branch or region, so if your bank has multiple locations, you may see more than one number listed. Call your bank to confirm which one applies to your account.
Check your bank statements or deposit slips
If you have a recent bank statement, look at the top or bottom of the page. Many banks print the routing number there alongside your account number. Deposit slips — the small papers you use to deposit cash or checks — also often display the routing number at the bottom.
These documents are usually available online through your banking portal if you do not have a paper copy. Log in and download a recent statement or look for a "Deposit Slips" section.
What to do if you cannot find your routing number
If you have tried the methods above and still cannot locate it, contact your bank directly. Customer service can confirm your routing number over the phone or email. Be prepared to verify your identity with your account number, Social Security number, or other information the bank uses to confirm who you are.
Do not share your routing number with anyone you do not trust. While a routing number alone cannot be used to withdraw money from your account, it is part of the information needed for direct deposits, wire transfers, and automatic payments. Treat it the same way you would treat your account number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all accounts at the same bank have the same routing number?
Not always. Routing numbers are assigned to specific branches or regions, so if you have accounts at two different branches of the same bank, they may have different routing numbers. Check each account separately to be sure.
Can I use someone else's routing number if we bank at the same place?
No. You must use the routing number for your specific branch or account. Using the wrong routing number can delay or misdirect a deposit or payment. Always verify you have the correct number for your account.
Is my routing number the same as my bank's main phone number?
No. Your routing number is a nine-digit code used for electronic transfers. Your bank's phone number is separate. Do not confuse the two.
What if my bank merged with another bank?
Your routing number may have changed. Contact your bank or check your most recent statement to confirm. If you have automatic payments or direct deposits set up, you may need to update them with the new routing number.
Can I look up someone else's routing number?
Yes, if you know their bank name and location, you can search the Federal Reserve's database. However, you cannot find someone's personal account number this way — only the bank's routing number is public.