Yes, your savings account has a routing number, and it works the same way as a checking account
Your savings account comes with its own routing number — a nine-digit code that identifies your bank and branch. You use it the same way you would for a checking account: to receive direct deposits, set up automatic transfers, or send money to someone else's account at the same bank or a different one.
The routing number is tied to your bank and the specific branch where you opened the account, not to the account type. Whether the account holds your checking money or your savings money does not change the routing number. If you have both a checking and savings account at the same bank and branch, they share the same routing number.
You will need both the routing number and your account number (a separate code unique to that one account) together to complete most transfers. The routing number tells the system which bank to send the money to; the account number tells it which account at that bank.
Key Takeaways
- Every savings account has a routing number that identifies your bank and branch, even if you never use it.
- The routing number is the same whether you use a checking account or savings account at the same bank location.
- You need both the routing number and your account number together to receive transfers or send money out.
- You can find your routing number on the bottom left of a check, on your bank's website, or by calling your bank directly.
Where to find your savings account routing number
If you have a checkbook from a checking account at the same bank, the routing number appears on the bottom left of any check, before your account number. However, if you only have a savings account and no checks, you will need to look elsewhere.
Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for account details or account information. Most banks display the routing number right next to the account number. If you cannot find it online, call your bank's customer service line — the number is usually on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. A representative can give you the routing number in under a minute.
Some banks also print the routing number on your monthly statement, though not all do. If you are setting up a transfer and need it when ready, the phone call is the fastest route.
When you actually need the routing number for a savings account
You need the routing number when someone outside your bank wants to send you money directly into your savings account. This includes direct deposit from an employer or government agency, transfers from a friend's account at a different bank, or payments from a service you use.
You do not need it for everyday savings account tasks like withdrawing money at an ATM, checking your balance, or moving money between your own accounts at the same bank. You also do not need it to receive a wire transfer — the bank will ask for your account number and may ask for other details like your full name and address, but not the routing number.
If you are sending money out of your savings account to someone else's account, you will need their routing number and account number, not yours. Your bank already knows your information.
Routing numbers are different from account numbers
The routing number identifies your bank and branch — it is the same for everyone who banks at that location. The account number is unique to you and that specific account. Together, they form a complete address for your money.
Think of it like a mailing address: the routing number is the city and zip code (shared by many people), and the account number is your street address and house number (unique to you). You need both pieces for the money to arrive at the right place.
If you move your savings account to a different branch of the same bank, your account number stays the same but your routing number might change. If you switch to a completely different bank, both numbers change.
What happens if you give out your routing number
Your routing number is safe to share. It is public information — anyone can look up your bank's routing number if they know which bank you use. Sharing it alone does not let someone take money from your account.
To actually move money out of your account, someone would need both your routing number and your account number, plus authorization from you or from the bank. Even with both numbers, they cannot withdraw cash or make purchases — they can only initiate transfers, and most banks require you to approve those or will notify you when they happen.
Your account number is more sensitive than your routing number, so be more careful about who you give that to. Never share your PIN or online banking password with anyone, regardless of what they claim to need it for.
Savings accounts at online banks and credit unions
Online banks and credit unions also issue routing numbers for savings accounts. The process is identical to traditional banks: you can find the number on your account details page or by calling customer service.
Credit unions sometimes have multiple routing numbers depending on which branch or service you use, so if you are a member of a large credit union, double-check that you have the correct one for your specific account. Online banks typically have one routing number for all members.
If you are transferring money between accounts at the same institution — whether it is an online bank, credit union, or traditional bank — you may not need the routing number at all. Many banks let you move money between your own accounts using just the account numbers. Check your bank's website or app to see what information is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone withdraw money from my savings account if they have the routing number?
No. They would need your account number as well, and even then they cannot withdraw cash or make purchases. They can only initiate a transfer, which most banks will notify you about or require you to approve first.
Is the routing number the same for all accounts at my bank?
It depends on your bank's structure. If you have multiple accounts at the same branch, they usually share the same routing number. If you have accounts at different branches of the same bank, the routing numbers may differ. Check your account details or call your bank to be sure.
What if I do not have checks for my savings account?
Log into your bank's website or app and look for account information or account details. If you cannot find it there, call your bank's customer service number. They can provide the routing number when ready.
Do I need a routing number to move money between my own accounts at the same bank?
Usually not. Most banks let you transfer between your own accounts using just the account numbers or a straightforward account selection menu in their app or website. Check your bank's transfer options to see what information is required.
What is the difference between a routing number and a SWIFT code?
A routing number is used for domestic transfers within the United States. A SWIFT code is used for international transfers. If you are sending money to or receiving money from outside the U.S., you will need a SWIFT code instead of a routing number.