Your routing number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it on your bank's website or by calling customer service

The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank branch. It appears on the lower left corner of every check you write, before your account number. If you don't have checks or prefer not to look them up manually, your bank's website almost always lists it in the account settings or FAQ section, and a phone call to customer service will get you the number in under a minute.

You need this number when setting up direct deposit for tax refunds, stimulus payments, or payroll; when receiving insurance refunds or business payments; and when authorizing electronic transfers. Having it handy saves time and reduces the chance of entering the wrong digits.

Key Takeaways

  • Your routing number is the nine-digit code on the bottom left of your checks, printed before your account number.
  • If you don't have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app and look under account details or settings.
  • Calling your bank's customer service line will confirm your routing number in seconds if you're unsure.
  • The routing number identifies your bank branch; your account number identifies your specific account within that branch.
  • You'll need both your routing number and account number together when setting up direct deposit or authorizing electronic transfers.

Finding it on a paper check

Open your checkbook and look at the bottom of any check. You'll see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines or symbols. The first group on the left is your routing number—always nine digits. The middle group is your account number, and the third group on the right is the check number itself.

The routing number stays the same for every check from your account. If you've moved banks or opened a new account, the routing number will change, so don't assume an old check has the current one.

Looking it up online

Log into your bank's website or mobile app and navigate to account settings, account details, or a section labeled "Account Information." Most banks display the routing number prominently here. If you can't find it, look for a FAQ or Help section—many banks have a dedicated page for routing and account numbers.

Some banks also print the routing number on statements, usually near the top or in a summary section. If you receive paper statements, check the first page or the account information box.

Calling your bank directly

Pick up the phone and 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'll confirm it in seconds and may also offer to verify your account number at the same time.

This method is fastest if you're in a hurry or uncomfortable navigating the website. Keep a pen and paper ready to write down the number, or ask the representative to email or text it to you if your bank offers that option.

Routing number vs. account number: what's the difference

Your routing number identifies the bank or credit union branch where your account is held. It's the same for all customers at that branch. Your account number is unique to you—it identifies your specific account within that branch. Together, they tell the financial system exactly where your money is and whose account to deposit into or withdraw from.

When you set up direct deposit for a tax refund or receive a payment electronically, you'll provide both numbers. The routing number directs the money to the right bank; the account number directs it to the right account within that bank. If either number is wrong, the deposit may be delayed or sent to the wrong place.

What to do if you can't find your routing number

If you've switched banks recently or closed your old account, you'll need the routing number for your current bank, not your old one. Don't guess or use a number from an old check—call your current bank or check their website instead.

If you bank at a credit union instead of a bank, the process is the same: check your checks, log into your account online, or call the credit union's member service line. Credit unions use routing numbers just like banks do.

Common mistakes when entering your routing number

The most common error is transposing digits—writing 021000021 instead of 021000012, for example. Double-check the number before you submit it, especially if you're typing it from a check or from memory. If you're unsure, look it up again rather than guess.

Another mistake is using the routing number from an old bank after you've switched. If you recently opened a new account, make sure you're using the routing number for the new bank, not the old one. Your old routing number will not work for deposits to your new account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my routing number the same at every branch of my bank?

No. Different branches of the same bank may have different routing numbers. The routing number identifies your specific branch, not just the bank overall. If you moved or switched branches, confirm you have the routing number for the branch where your account is held.

Can I use someone else's routing number if we bank at the same place?

Only if you both have accounts at the exact same branch. If your accounts are at different branches of the same bank, the routing numbers will differ. Always use your own routing number for your own account.

What if the routing number on my check doesn't match what the bank's website shows?

Use the number from the bank's website or call to confirm. Checks can be misprinted, or you may have old checks from a previous account or branch. The bank's official records are always the source of truth.

Do I need my routing number to withdraw money from an ATM?

No. You only need your debit card and PIN to use an ATM. Routing numbers are for electronic transfers, direct deposit, and payments that move money between banks or accounts.

Will my routing number change if I move to a different state?

Not automatically. Your routing number is tied to your specific bank branch, not your home address. If you move but keep your account at the same branch, the routing number stays the same. If you close that account and open one at a different bank or branch, you'll get a new routing number.