You need your bank's routing number and your account number to connect a bank account to Vanguard

Vanguard uses a two-step verification process to confirm you own the bank account you're linking. You'll enter your routing number and account number in Vanguard's system, then Vanguard deposits two small amounts (usually under $1 each) into that account within one to two business days. You then log into Vanguard and confirm the exact amounts of those deposits. Only after you verify the amounts can you move money between the accounts.

This process protects both you and Vanguard by proving the account is actually yours. It also means you cannot move money when ready after linking—there's a waiting period while the verification deposits clear.

Key Takeaways

  • You will need your bank's routing number and your account number before you start, both of which appear on a check or your bank's website.
  • Vanguard sends two small test deposits to your bank account, and you must confirm the amounts in Vanguard's system before transfers become active.
  • The entire verification process typically takes one to three business days from the moment you enter your account details.
  • You can link multiple bank accounts to a single Vanguard account, but each one must complete the verification step separately.

Where to find your routing and account numbers

Your routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank branch. Your account number is unique to your individual account at that bank. Both appear on the bottom left of any check you have from that account—the routing number comes first, then the account number.

If you don't have a check, log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for account details or account information. Most banks display both numbers there. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask them to read you both numbers over the phone.

Do not use a credit card number or a savings account number if you're trying to link a checking account. Vanguard will reject mismatched account types, and you'll have to start over.

The steps to add a bank account in Vanguard's system

Log into your Vanguard account on the website or through the mobile app. Navigate to the transfers or funding section—the exact location varies slightly between the website and app, but both have a clear "Add Bank Account" or "Link Bank Account" option.

Enter your bank's routing number and your account number exactly as they appear. Vanguard will ask you to confirm the account type (checking or savings) and may ask for your bank's name. Double-check every digit before you submit, because an error in either number will cause the verification deposits to fail.

After you submit, Vanguard will tell you that verification deposits are on the way. You'll see a message saying something like "Verification in progress" or "Pending verification." At this point, you cannot move money yet—you're waiting for the two small deposits to arrive at your bank.

Waiting for and confirming the verification deposits

Vanguard typically sends the two test deposits within one business day, though it can take up to two. Check your bank account online or through your bank's app to see when they arrive. The amounts are usually between $0.01 and $0.99 each, and they may appear with a description like "Vanguard Verification" or a similar label.

Once you see both deposits in your bank account, return to Vanguard and look for a prompt to verify the amounts. You'll enter the two dollar amounts you saw deposited. Vanguard checks that your numbers match what it sent, and if they do, your bank account is now verified and active.

If the deposits don't arrive within two business days, or if you cannot find them in your account, contact Vanguard's customer service. The routing or account number may have been entered incorrectly, and you may need to remove the account and start the process again.

Moving money after verification is complete

Once your bank account is verified, you can move money between Vanguard and that bank account. Transfers initiated before 4 p.m. Eastern Time on a business day typically settle the next business day. Transfers initiated after 4 p.m. or on weekends and holidays settle the following business day.

Vanguard does not charge a fee to move money between your Vanguard account and a linked bank account. Your bank may charge a fee if you're moving money out of that account, so check your bank's fee schedule if you're unsure.

You can set up recurring transfers if you want to move money on a regular schedule—for example, $500 every month from your bank account into a Vanguard mutual fund. These are set up in the same transfers section where you initiated one-time moves.

Linking multiple bank accounts to the same Vanguard account

You can connect more than one bank account to your Vanguard account. Each account must complete the verification process separately, so if you're adding a second bank account, you'll go through the same routing number, account number, and verification deposit steps again.

This is useful if you have checking accounts at different banks, or if you want to keep transfers from different sources separate for tracking purposes. Vanguard will label each linked account so you can tell them apart when you're setting up a transfer.

What to do if verification fails or takes longer than expected

If the verification deposits don't arrive after two business days, the most common cause is an error in the routing or account number. Log back into Vanguard and check what you entered. If you spot a mistake, you'll need to remove that bank account and add it again with the correct information.

If you're certain the numbers are correct but the deposits still haven't arrived, contact Vanguard's customer service. They can check whether the deposits were sent and, if they were, help you locate them in your bank account. Sometimes deposits appear under a different name or description than expected, especially if your bank has multiple processing systems.

If you entered the wrong amounts when confirming the deposits, Vanguard will reject the verification and ask you to try again. You have multiple attempts to enter the correct amounts, so don't worry if you make a mistake the first time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move money before the verification deposits clear?

No. You must wait for both verification deposits to arrive at your bank and confirm their amounts in Vanguard before any transfers become active. This typically takes one to three business days total.

What if I enter the wrong routing number?

Vanguard will send the verification deposits to the wrong bank, and they will not arrive in your account. You'll need to remove the bank account from Vanguard and add it again with the correct routing number. Then wait for new verification deposits.

Do I have to keep the verification deposits in my bank account?

No. Once you've confirmed the amounts in Vanguard, the deposits are yours to keep or withdraw. Most people leave them there since they're less than a dollar, but you can move or spend that money without affecting your Vanguard account.

Can I link a bank account that's in someone else's name?

No. The bank account must be registered in your name or in a name that matches your Vanguard account. If you're a joint account holder on a bank account, you can link it only if your name appears on the account at the bank.

How long does it take to remove a linked bank account?

Removal is when ready. Once you delete a bank account from Vanguard, it's no longer connected, and you cannot move money to or from it. If you want to link it again later, you'll have to go through the verification process a second time.