The fastest way to find both numbers
Your routing number and account number are printed on the bottom left of every check you have. The routing number is the first set of nine digits, the account number follows it. If you have checks, this is your quickest answer—you do not need to call anyone or log in anywhere.
If you do not have checks or cannot find them, your bank's website or mobile app will show both numbers. Log in, go to account details or account information, and both will be listed there. Some banks label the routing number as "ABA number" or "transit number"—they mean the same thing.
Your bank statement also carries both numbers, usually at the bottom of the first page or in a section labeled "account information." Paper statements show them; online statements do the same.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number and account number appear on the bottom left of your checks in a specific order: routing number first (nine digits), then account number.
- If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or app and navigate to account details or account information to find both numbers.
- Your bank statement lists both numbers, whether you receive it on paper or view it online.
- Calling your bank's customer service line will provide both numbers within minutes if you cannot locate them through other methods.
- Your routing number stays the same across all your accounts at that bank; your account number is unique to each individual account.
Finding your numbers through your bank's website
Log into your online banking portal and look for a section called "Account Details," "Account Information," or "My Accounts." Most banks display both numbers prominently on this page. Some banks require you to click on a specific account first if you hold multiple accounts—the routing number will be the same for all of them, but the account number will differ for each one.
If you cannot find the section, use the search function within the app or website and type "routing number" or "account number." Most banking platforms will direct you to the right page. The numbers are not hidden; banks know you need them regularly for direct deposits, wire transfers, and bill payments.
Calling your bank to get the numbers
The customer service number is on the back of your debit card or credit card, or on any statement you have received. When you call, have your account number or the last four digits of your Social Security number ready—the bank will ask for one or both to verify your identity.
Tell the representative you need your routing number and account number. They will provide both when ready. The call typically takes fewer than five minutes. If you are calling from a number different from the one on file, the bank may ask additional security questions.
Understanding what each number does
Your routing number identifies your bank or credit union. It tells the financial system where your money is held. The same routing number applies to every account you have at that bank. If you move to a different bank, your routing number changes; if you open a second account at the same bank, the routing number stays the same.
Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. It is unique to you. If you have a checking account and a savings account at the same bank, each has its own account number, but both share the same routing number. The account number is what ensures money lands in the right place.
Where you will use these numbers
You will need both numbers when setting up direct deposit for paychecks or government benefits. Employers and benefit programs ask for them to deposit money automatically into your account. You will also need them to set up bill pay through your bank, to receive wire transfers, or to authorize ACH transfers (automatic payments that pull money from your account on a set date).
If you are receiving a refund—from a tax return, a disputed charge, or a returned payment—the organization sending the refund will ask for your routing and account numbers so they can deposit the money directly into your account instead of mailing a check.
What to do if you cannot find your numbers
If you do not have checks, cannot access your online banking, and do not have a recent statement, calling your bank is the most direct route. You do not need to visit a branch in person. A phone call to customer service will get you both numbers within minutes.
If you have a debit card, the customer service number is on the back. If you do not have a card, the number is on any piece of mail from your bank. If you have lost all contact information, search online for "[Your Bank Name] customer service phone number"—the official number will appear in the search results.
Protecting your routing and account numbers
Your routing number is public information—it is printed on checks and shared with employers and benefit programs. Treat it like you would treat your bank's address. Your account number is more sensitive. Do not share it with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly, even if they claim to be from your bank. Your bank already has your account number; they will not ask you to provide it over the phone or email.
When you provide these numbers to set up direct deposit or bill pay, you are giving them to a known organization through a find process. That is different from responding to a call or email asking for them. If someone contacts you asking for your account number, hang up or delete the message and call your bank directly using the number on your card or statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same for all my accounts at the same bank?
Yes. Your routing number identifies the bank itself, not a specific account. If you have a checking account, a savings account, and a money market account all at the same bank, they all share the same routing number. Your account number is what distinguishes one account from another.
Can I find my routing number if I bank online only?
Yes. Log into your online banking portal and go to account details or account information. If you cannot find it there, call the bank's customer service number, which is usually listed on their website. Online-only banks provide both numbers through their app or website just as traditional banks do.
What if my check has a different routing number than what the bank's website shows?
This can happen if your checks are old or if your bank merged with another bank. Use the routing number from your bank's website or app, not the one on old checks. Call your bank to confirm if you are unsure—they will tell you which number to use for new transactions.
Do I need both numbers to receive a direct deposit?
Yes. Your employer or the organization sending the payment needs both your routing number and your account number to deposit money into the correct account at the correct bank. Providing only one is not enough.
What should I do if I think someone has my account number?
Call your bank when ready using the number on your card or statement. Tell them you are concerned about unauthorized access. They can monitor your account for suspicious activity and issue you a new account number if necessary. Do not wait to see if something happens—contact them right away.