The fastest way: check a check you've already written

Your routing number is printed on the bottom left of any check from your account. It's the first set of nine digits, before your account number. If you have a checkbook in a drawer, that's your answer in under a minute.

The routing number stays the same for every check from that account. It identifies which bank or credit union holds your money, not which specific account. If you have multiple accounts at the same institution, they all share the same routing number.

Key Takeaways

  • Your routing number appears on the bottom left of any physical check, as the first nine-digit sequence.
  • Your bank's website has a routing number lookup tool, usually under account information or customer service.
  • You can call your bank's customer service line and ask directly; they will confirm it in seconds.
  • The Federal Reserve maintains a public database where you can search by bank name and state if you need verification.
  • Routing numbers are public information tied to your bank's location, not a security risk to share.

Look it up on your bank's website

Log into your online banking account and navigate to account information, account details, or settings. Most banks display the routing number alongside your account number in a section labeled "Account Information" or "Bank Details." Some banks hide it one click deeper—look for a link that says "View routing number" or "Wire transfer information."

If you cannot find it in your account dashboard, go to the bank's main website (not your login page) and search for "routing number" in the search bar. This usually takes you to a page where you can enter your state and see all routing numbers for branches in that state. Credit unions often list routing numbers under "Member Services" or "Account Information."

Call your bank and ask

The phone number is on the back of your debit card or on your bank statements. Tell the representative you need your routing number for a wire transfer or direct deposit setup. They will read it to you and may ask which state your account is based in to confirm they have the right number.

This takes two to three minutes and gives you a chance to verify you have the right number before you use it. Some banks will also email or text it to you if you ask.

Use the Federal Reserve's routing number database

The Federal Reserve maintains a public database at frbservices.org where you can search for routing numbers by bank name, city, and state. Enter your bank's name and the state where your account is held, and the database returns all routing numbers associated with that bank in that location.

This method works if your bank has multiple routing numbers for different branches or services. Some large banks use different routing numbers for wire transfers versus ACH transfers, so this database helps you find the specific one you need. The search is free and requires no login.

Check your bank statements

Open a recent statement from your bank—either a paper copy or a PDF from your online account. The routing number usually appears at the top or bottom of the page, often near your account number. Some banks print it on every page; others print it only on the first page.

If you have statements from multiple months, the routing number will be the same on all of them. This method works even if you have not written a check in years.

Understand which routing number you actually need

Most people need only one routing number: the one for their bank's main processing center in the state where they opened the account. However, some large banks maintain separate routing numbers for different services or regions.

If you are setting up direct deposit or a recurring payment, use the routing number your bank provides in the "direct deposit" or "ACH transfers" section of their website. If you are sending a wire transfer, some banks list a separate wire routing number. Ask your bank which one applies to what you are trying to do—they will tell you when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to give someone my routing number?

Yes. Your routing number is public information that identifies your bank's location and processing center, not your account. It is printed on every check you write. You need to share it for direct deposits, wire transfers, and bill payments. It does not let someone access your account without your account number and other verification.

What if my bank has multiple routing numbers?

Large banks sometimes maintain different routing numbers for different regions or service types. Check your bank's website under "wire transfer information" or "direct deposit setup" to find the specific routing number for what you are doing. When in doubt, call and tell them the transaction type—they will give you the right one.

Can I use any routing number for my bank?

No. You must use the routing number for the specific bank and state where your account is held. Using the wrong routing number will send your money to the wrong institution or cause the transaction to fail. Verify it matches your bank's name and location before you submit it.

What if I cannot find my routing number anywhere?

Call your bank's customer service line. The number is on your debit card, your statements, or the bank's website. They can confirm your routing number in under a minute and tell you if your bank uses different numbers for different transaction types.