You cannot change your routing number, but you can open a new account with a different one

Your routing number is tied to the specific bank branch where your account lives. It identifies that branch in the banking system, so you cannot change it without moving your money to a different bank or branch. Your account number, however, can sometimes be changed — but the process and whether it is possible depends on your bank and the reason you want the change.

If you need a different routing number, you will need to open an account at a different bank or at a branch of your current bank in a different location. If you want to change your account number at your current bank, contact them directly to ask whether they offer this service and what the process involves.

Key Takeaways

  • Routing numbers cannot be changed because they identify your specific bank branch in the banking system.
  • Account numbers can sometimes be changed by contacting your bank, though not all banks offer this service.
  • If you need a different routing number, you must open an account at a different bank or branch location.
  • Before closing an old account, make sure all automatic payments and direct deposits are switched to your new account number.
  • The process for changing an account number typically takes a few business days and may involve paperwork.

Why you might want to change your account number

The most common reason people want a new account number is security. If you believe your account number has been compromised — for example, if you gave it to someone you no longer trust, or if you suspect unauthorized access — asking your bank for a new number is a reasonable step. Some banks will issue a new account number at no cost in this situation.

Another reason is privacy. If you shared your account number with someone in the past and no longer want them to have it, a new number prevents them from using the old one for future transactions. This is different from closing the account entirely, which you might do if you want to end the relationship with that bank.

A third reason is to separate finances. If you had a joint account and want to move to a solo account, or vice versa, you may need a new account number as part of that change — though this often means opening a genuinely new account rather than renumbering an existing one.

How to request a new account number from your bank

Start by calling your bank's customer service line or visiting a branch in person. Explain that you want to change your account number and why. Be prepared for the bank to ask questions about the reason — they may have different processes depending on whether this is a security issue, a privacy concern, or something else.

Ask the bank directly whether they can issue a new number for your existing account, or whether you need to open a new account instead. Some banks can renumber an account; others cannot and will require you to open a fresh account. If they can renumber, ask how long the process takes and whether there are any fees.

If the bank says they cannot renumber your account, ask what the next step is. Often this means opening a new account at the same bank, which gives you a new account number and (if it is at a different branch) a new routing number. The bank can usually transfer your existing balance to the new account once it is open.

What to do before switching to a new account number

Before you stop using your old account number, you need to redirect any money that flows in and out. Make a list of everywhere your account number is currently used: your employer's payroll system, government benefits programs, insurance companies, utilities, subscriptions, loan servicers, and anyone else who deposits money to or withdraws money from your account.

Contact each one and provide your new account number. For payroll, this usually means a form through your HR or payroll department. For government benefits, you may need to update your information through the program's website or by phone. For utilities and subscriptions, you can often update your payment method online or by calling customer service.

Give yourself at least two weeks to make these changes before your old account number stops working. Some organizations process updates slowly, and you do not want a payment to fail because the old number is no longer active. Once you are confident that all recurring payments and deposits have been switched, you can close the old account if you wish.

The difference between changing your account number and closing your account

Changing your account number keeps the account open under a new identifier. The account history, the bank relationship, and any account features stay the same — only the number changes. This is useful if you want to keep the account but need a fresh number for security or privacy reasons.

Closing your account ends the relationship with that bank entirely. Your account number becomes inactive, and you cannot use it anymore. If you close the account, you will need to move your money somewhere else. Closing is the right choice if you want to switch banks or no longer need that account; changing the number is the right choice if you want to stay with the bank but need a fresh start with the number itself.

Opening a new account at a different bank or branch

If you want a different routing number, you will need to open an account at a different bank or at a different branch of your current bank. When you open a new account, you automatically get a new account number and (if it is at a different branch or bank) a new routing number.

To open a new account, visit the bank in person or go to their website. You will need a government-issued ID, proof of address (usually a recent utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. The bank will verify this information and run a background check through ChexSystems, a database that tracks banking history. Most people are approved within a few minutes to a few hours.

Once the new account is open, transfer your balance from the old account and update all your automatic payments and direct deposits as described above. You can then close the old account if you no longer need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my bank change my routing number without opening a new account?

No. Your routing number is assigned to your specific bank branch and cannot be changed without moving to a different branch or bank. If you need a different routing number, you must open an account elsewhere.

Will changing my account number affect my credit score?

No. Your account number is not reported to credit bureaus and does not appear on your credit report. Changing it will not affect your credit score. Closing an old account might have a small effect, but changing the number itself does not.

How long does it take to change my account number?

If your bank can renumber your existing account, the process usually takes a few business days. If you need to open a new account instead, that can happen the same day, but it may take a few days for the new account to be fully active for all types of transactions.

What happens to checks I already printed with my old account number?

Once your account number changes, checks printed with the old number will no longer work. You will need to order new checks with your new account number. Contact your bank to order them, or use a third-party check printer. Until the new checks arrive, you can use other payment methods like transfers or debit card.

Do I have to pay a fee to change my account number?

Most banks do not charge a fee to change your account number if it is for security reasons. Some may charge a small fee if you are opening a new account as part of the process. Ask your bank about their specific policy before you request the change.