The fastest way: check your checks or online banking
Your routing number and account number are printed on the bottom left of every check you own. The routing number comes first (nine digits), then your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits). If you have checks in front of you right now, that is the quickest answer.
If you do not have checks or prefer not to dig them out, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Most banks display both numbers in the account details or settings section — sometimes labeled "Account Information" or "Routing Details". The location varies by bank, but it is usually one or two clicks from your account dashboard.
You can also call your bank's customer service line, which is printed on the back of your debit card. Have your account number or card number ready, and they will read both numbers to you over the phone in under a minute.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number and account number are printed together on the bottom left of any check you have.
- Most banks show both numbers in their online banking portal under account details or settings.
- Calling your bank's customer service line (on the back of your debit card) will get you both numbers when ready.
- The routing number identifies your bank; the account number identifies your specific account within that bank.
- You need both numbers for wire transfers, direct deposit setup, and ACH payments.
Finding your routing number if you switched banks
If you closed your old bank account and opened a new one, your routing number may have changed. Banks do not always use the same routing number across all their branches, and some banks have multiple routing numbers depending on where your account is held.
The safest approach is to use your new bank's routing number lookup tool on their website. Search for "[Your Bank Name] routing number" and you will usually land on a page where you enter your state or branch location. The bank will return the correct routing number for your account.
Do not assume your old routing number still works. If you enter an old routing number for a direct deposit or wire transfer, the payment may be rejected or delayed while the bank tries to figure out where it belongs.
What to do if your bank does not show the routing number online
Smaller banks and credit unions sometimes do not display routing numbers prominently on their websites. If you cannot find it in your online banking portal or on the bank's main website, call the number on the back of your debit card and ask for the routing number. They will give it to you when ready.
Some credit unions use the term "transit number" instead of "routing number" — they mean the same thing. If a customer service representative uses that term, they are giving you the correct nine-digit code.
Understanding the order on your check
The bottom of a check always follows the same layout. On the far left, you will see nine digits separated by colons or small boxes — that is your routing number. when ready to the right of that, you will see your account number, which is usually longer. At the far right is the check number.
The routing number tells the Federal Reserve and the receiving bank which institution holds the account. The account number tells that institution which specific account within their system should receive the money. Both are required for the payment to reach the right place.
When you need these numbers and where to provide them
You will need both numbers for direct deposit (your employer will ask for them on a form), wire transfers (your bank will ask when you initiate the transfer), and ACH payments (automatic bill pay or peer-to-peer transfers). Some online payment services also ask for them when you link a bank account.
Never provide these numbers to someone who calls you unsolicited. Legitimate companies will not ask for your routing and account number over the phone unless you initiated the contact. If you are unsure whether a call is legitimate, hang up and call the company directly using the number on your statement or their official website.
Routing numbers for different types of accounts
If you have multiple accounts at the same bank — a checking account and a savings account, for example — they share the same routing number but have different account numbers. The routing number identifies the bank; the account number identifies which account within that bank.
If you have accounts at different banks, each bank has its own routing number. A Wells Fargo routing number will not work for a Bank of America account, even if both are in the same state. Always use the routing number that matches the bank where the account actually sits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same as my bank's main routing number?
Not always. Some large banks have multiple routing numbers depending on which state or region your account is in. Always use the routing number specific to your account, not just your bank's main number. Your checks will have the correct one printed on them.
Can I use my account number alone for a wire transfer?
No. Wire transfers require both your routing number and your account number. The routing number tells the Federal Reserve which bank to send the money to; the account number tells that bank which account within their system should receive it. Without both, the transfer will be rejected.
What if I see different numbers on my checks and in my online banking?
Call your bank when ready. This usually means your account was transferred between branches or systems, and one of the sources has outdated information. Your bank can confirm which numbers are currently active for your account.
Do I need my routing number to set up direct deposit?
Yes. Your employer will ask for your routing number and account number on the direct deposit form. Without both, they cannot set up the automatic deposit to your account. You can find both on a check or in your online banking portal.
Is it safe to share my routing and account number?
Your routing number is public information — it identifies your bank, not your account. Your account number is more sensitive. Share both only with people or organizations you trust and who have a legitimate reason to receive payments from you, such as your employer or a company you are paying.