Your savings account uses your bank's routing number, not a separate one
A routing number belongs to your bank or credit union as a whole, not to individual accounts. Whether you have a checking account, a savings account, or both, they all use the same routing number — the one that identifies your financial institution to the banking system.
This can feel confusing because your savings account does have its own account number, which is different from your checking account number. But the routing number stays the same. Think of it this way: the routing number is your bank's address in the banking system, and your account number is your mailbox within that address.
You need both pieces of information together when you set up transfers into or out of your savings account, but they come from the same place — your bank.
Key Takeaways
- Your bank has one routing number that applies to all your accounts — checking, savings, and any others you hold there.
- Your savings account has its own account number, separate from your checking account number, even though both use the same routing number.
- You can find your bank's routing number on the bottom left of your checks, on your bank's website, or by calling the bank directly.
- When setting up a transfer or direct deposit to your savings account, you will need both the routing number and your specific savings account number.
Where to find your bank's routing number
The easiest place to look is the bottom left corner of any check you have from your bank. The first set of numbers printed there is your routing number — it is always nine digits.
If you do not have checks, log into your online banking account. Most banks display the routing number in the account details or transfer settings section. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask — they will give it to you when ready.
Some banks also print the routing number on statements or on the back of your debit card, though this varies by bank.
Why you need both the routing number and account number
When someone sends you money through a bank transfer, or when you set up a direct deposit from your employer, the sending bank needs two pieces of information to get the money to the right place. The routing number tells their system which bank to send it to. Your account number tells your bank which account within your bank to deposit it into.
Without the routing number, the transfer cannot leave the sending bank. Without the account number, the money arrives at your bank but the bank does not know which account is yours. Both are required for the transfer to complete.
The difference between your savings and checking account numbers
Even though both accounts are at the same bank and share the same routing number, your savings account has a completely different account number from your checking account. This is how your bank keeps track of which money is in which account.
When you open a savings account, the bank assigns it a unique account number. You can find this number on statements, in your online banking portal, or by calling the bank. Make sure you use the correct account number for your savings account when setting up transfers — using your checking account number by mistake will send the money to the wrong place.
What happens if you use the wrong account number
If you provide the correct routing number but the wrong account number, the transfer will reach your bank but go into a different account. If that account is also yours, the money straightforward ends up in the wrong place and you will need to transfer it yourself. If the account number does not match any account at your bank, the transfer may be rejected or held while the bank tries to figure out where it belongs.
This is why it is worth double-checking both numbers before you confirm a transfer, especially the first time you transfer money to a new account. Most banks let you verify the account holder's name before the transfer goes through — use that step to make sure you have the right account.
Transfers between your own accounts at the same bank
If you are moving money between your own checking and savings accounts at the same bank, you usually do not need the routing number at all. You can do this through your online banking portal or mobile app by selecting both accounts and entering the amount. The bank already knows both accounts are yours.
You only need the routing number when you are sending money to an account at a different bank, or when someone outside your bank is sending money to you.
International transfers and routing numbers
If you are receiving money from outside the United States, the sending bank may ask for additional information beyond your routing number and account number. They might ask for a SWIFT code (used for international transfers) or an IBAN (used in some countries). Ask your bank what information international senders need — it varies depending on which country the money is coming from.
Your U.S. routing number alone is not enough for international transfers, so do not give that as your only information to someone sending you money from abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same routing number for both my checking and savings accounts?
Yes. Both accounts use your bank's routing number. The routing number identifies your bank, not the specific account. Your account number is what distinguishes your savings account from your checking account.
What if my bank merged with another bank?
Your routing number may change after a merger. The bank will notify you and update your information in their system. If you have automatic transfers set up, contact the bank to confirm whether you need to update the routing number in those arrangements.
Do credit unions use routing numbers the same way as banks?
Yes. Credit unions have routing numbers just like banks do, and they work the same way — one routing number for the entire institution, with individual account numbers for each account you hold.
Is the routing number the same for online transfers and checks?
Yes. The routing number on the bottom of your checks is the same one you use for electronic transfers, direct deposits, and wire transfers. It never changes for your account.
What if I cannot find my routing number?
Call your bank's customer service number — it is on your debit card, your statements, or their website. They will give you the routing number over the phone. You can also visit your bank in person with your ID and ask for it.