Where to find your routing number

Your bank's routing number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, if you have them. Look for a nine-digit number in that corner — it comes before your account number. If you do not have checks or cannot find the number, your bank's website has a routing number lookup tool, usually under "Customer Service" or "Banking Information."

You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask for the routing number. They will give it to you over the phone. The number is the same for all customers at your bank in your state, so it does not matter which account you call about.

One more option: the Federal Reserve maintains a public database of routing numbers at fedachindir.frb.org. You enter your bank's name and state, and it shows you the routing number. This is useful if your bank has closed or merged and you are trying to find an old routing number.

Key Takeaways

  • The routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks as a nine-digit number, before your account number.
  • Your bank's website has a routing number lookup tool, usually found under customer service or banking information sections.
  • You can call your bank's customer service line and ask for the routing number — they will provide it when ready.
  • The Federal Reserve's public database at fedachindir.frb.org lets you search by bank name and state if you cannot reach your bank.
  • The routing number is the same for all customers at your bank in your state, regardless of which account type you have.

Why your savings account uses your bank's routing number

Your savings account and your checking account, if you have both, share the same routing number. The routing number identifies your bank, not your specific account. Your account number is what tells the bank which account to move money into or out of.

When you set up a direct deposit, wire transfer, or automatic payment, you provide both numbers together. The routing number directs the money to your bank, and the account number directs it to your specific savings account once it arrives.

The difference between routing number and account number

A routing number is nine digits and identifies your bank or credit union. A account number is usually 10 to 12 digits and identifies your specific savings account. You need both to move money in or out.

On a check, the routing number appears first on the bottom left, then your account number, then the check number on the right. If you are setting up a transfer online, the website will ask for both separately — do not confuse them.

Finding your account number on the same page

Your account number is also printed on the bottom of your checks, right after the routing number. If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or app and look for "Account Information" or "Account Details." Your account number will be listed there.

You can also call your bank and ask for your account number. Write both numbers down and keep them in a safe place — you will need them for direct deposits, bill payments, and transfers.

What to do if your bank merged or changed names

If your bank was bought by another bank or changed its name, your routing number may have changed. Log into your online banking and check the current routing number listed there, or call your bank's customer service line to confirm.

If you have old checks from before the merger, do not use the routing number printed on them. Use the current routing number from your bank's website or a phone call. Using an old routing number can delay or fail a transfer.

Routing numbers for online banks and credit unions

Online banks and credit unions have routing numbers just like traditional banks. If your bank operates only online, you will not have physical checks, so go to the bank's website and search for "routing number" or "bank information." Most online banks display this information prominently.

Credit unions also have routing numbers. If you belong to a credit union, you can find the number on your debit card, on the credit union's website, or by calling their member service line. Some credit unions are part of shared branching networks, which means multiple credit unions share the same routing number — your credit union's website will clarify this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the routing number the same for checking and savings accounts?

Yes. The routing number identifies your bank, not the type of account. Both your checking and savings accounts at the same bank use the same routing number. The account number is what tells the bank which account to use.

Can I use someone else's routing number by mistake?

No. The routing number is specific to your bank and state. If you enter a different bank's routing number, the money will go to that bank instead, and you will have to contact both banks to recover it. Always double-check the routing number before you submit a transfer.

What if I cannot find my routing number anywhere?

Call your bank's customer service line — they can give you the number when ready. You can also visit a branch in person and ask a teller. If your bank has closed, try the Federal Reserve's routing number database at fedachindir.frb.org.

Do I need my routing number to check my account balance?

No. You only need your routing number when you are moving money in or out of your account — for direct deposits, wire transfers, bill payments, or linking accounts. To check your balance, log into your online banking or call your bank's automated line.