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, you can read both numbers in under a minute.
If you do not have checks or prefer not to handle them, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Most banks display both numbers in the account details or settings section. Look for a tab labeled "Account Information," "Account Details," or "Routing Number." Some banks call it "Bank Information" or "Account & Routing Numbers."
You do not need to call your bank or visit a branch for this information. It is always available to you online or on paper.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number and account number are printed on the bottom left of any check you own, in that order.
- Log into your bank's website or app and look for "Account Information" or "Account Details" to find both numbers without a check.
- The routing number identifies your bank or credit union; the account number identifies your specific account within that institution.
- Different accounts at the same bank have the same routing number but different account numbers.
- You may have multiple routing numbers if you bank at more than one institution or use a credit union.
Where to look in your online banking portal
The location varies by bank, but the path is usually short. Open your bank's website or app, sign in, and navigate to the account you need. Look for a menu option that says "Account," "Details," "Settings," or "Information." Some banks put it under a "Services" or "Tools" section.
Once you find the account details page, both numbers should be visible. If you see only one, look for a link that says "Show Routing Number" or "View Routing Information." Some banks hide the routing number by default for security, but you can reveal it with a click.
If you cannot find it after checking the main account page, try searching the help section or FAQ for "routing number" or "account number." Most banks have a dedicated page explaining where to find both.
What to do if you cannot access online banking
Call your bank's customer service number. You can find this number on your debit card, on a bank statement, or by searching your bank's name online. Have your account number or card number ready when you call.
Tell the representative you need your routing number and account number. They will read both to you over the phone. This takes less than a minute. You do not need to explain why you need them — banks provide this information to account holders as a matter of routine.
If you prefer not to call, visit a branch in person with your ID. A teller can write down both numbers for you or print them on a slip of paper.
Understanding the difference between the two numbers
The routing number identifies the bank or credit union itself. All accounts at the same institution share the same routing number. If you bank at Chase, every Chase account uses the same routing number. If you switch to a different bank, your new routing number will be different.
The account number identifies your specific account within that bank. If you have a checking account and a savings account at the same bank, they share a routing number but have different account numbers. The account number is unique to that one account.
When you set up a direct deposit or wire transfer, you need both numbers. The routing number tells the sending bank where to send the money; the account number tells that bank which account to deposit it into.
Routing numbers for credit unions and online banks
Credit unions have routing numbers just like traditional banks. If you are a member of a credit union, you can find your routing number the same way — on a check, in online banking, or by calling the credit union's main line.
Online banks (like Ally, Charles Schwab, or Discover) also have routing numbers. These banks do not issue checks by default, so your best option is to log into your account online or call customer service. The routing number is the same regardless of which account you hold at that institution.
Some online banks issue checks on request, which will have the routing number printed on them. If you plan to receive direct deposits or wire transfers regularly, ask whether the bank can mail you a check or provide the routing number in writing.
What happens if you use the wrong number
If you give a wrong routing number, the money may go to the wrong bank or be rejected entirely. The sending institution will usually catch the error and return the funds to the sender, but this can take several business days.
If you give a wrong account number but the correct routing number, the money reaches your bank but goes into the wrong account — either another customer's account or a suspense account. Your bank can trace it, but recovery takes time and effort.
Always double-check both numbers before you submit them for direct deposit, wire transfer, or any other transaction. Copy them exactly as they appear — do not add spaces or dashes unless the form asks for them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a check to find my routing and account number?
No. You can find both numbers by logging into your bank's website or app, or by calling customer service. Checks are the fastest way if you have them, but they are not required.
Is my routing number the same for all my accounts at one bank?
Yes. All accounts at the same bank or credit union share the same routing number. Your account number is what differs between your checking, savings, and other accounts.
Can I find my routing number on my debit card?
No. Debit cards do not print routing numbers. You can find it on a check, in online banking, on a bank statement, or by calling your bank.
What if my bank has multiple routing numbers?
Some large banks use different routing numbers for different regions or account types. If you see more than one routing number listed, use the one that matches your branch location or account type. Your bank's customer service can confirm which one to use.
Do I need both numbers for every transaction?
Yes. Direct deposits, wire transfers, and ACH transfers all require both your routing number and account number. Some forms ask for only one, but most need both to process correctly.