Your routing number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it through your bank's website or by calling customer service
The routing number is a nine-digit code that tells the banking system which institution holds your account. When money moves between banks—whether you're setting up direct deposit, sending a wire transfer, or receiving a payment—the routing number is how the sending bank knows where to send it. You need it for most transfers that leave your bank.
The fastest way to find it depends on what you have access to right now. If you have a checkbook, it's already there. If not, your bank's website or a phone call will get you the number in minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left corner of every check you receive from your bank, printed before your account number.
- You can find your routing number on your bank's website by logging into your account or searching their FAQ section for "routing number".
- Calling your bank's customer service line and providing your account number will get you the routing number when ready.
- The routing number is specific to your bank and branch, so different banks have different numbers even if you use the same bank name.
- You may need a different routing number for wire transfers than for ACH transfers, so confirm which type of transfer you're making before you use it.
Finding it on a check
Open your checkbook and look at the bottom of any check. You'll see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group on the left—nine digits—is your routing number. The second group is your account number. The third is the check number.
This works only if you have checks from your current bank. If you've switched banks or your checks are old, the routing number may no longer be correct. Confirm with your bank before using it.
Finding it on your bank's website
Log into your online banking account and look for a section labeled "Account Information," "Account Details," or "Routing Number." Most banks display it prominently on the dashboard or in a help section. If you can't find it, use the search function and type "routing number."
Some banks also list it in their FAQ or help center without requiring you to log in. Search "[Your Bank Name] routing number" in a search engine and look for an official bank page. Write down the number exactly as it appears—all nine digits matter.
Calling your bank directly
Pick up the phone and call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Tell the representative you need your routing number. They'll ask for your account number or other identifying information to confirm you're the account holder, then give you the number over the phone.
This is the slowest method if you're in a hurry, but it's reliable and works even if you don't have online access or checks. Write the number down as the representative says it, and ask them to spell it if the connection is unclear.
Understanding routing numbers for different transfer types
Most of the time, one routing number works for all transfers. But some banks maintain separate routing numbers for wire transfers and for ACH transfers (the system used for direct deposit and bill payments). Before you use the number, confirm what type of transfer you're making.
If you're setting up direct deposit, ask your employer or the benefits office which routing number they need. If you're sending a wire transfer, ask your bank whether the wire routing number is the same as the standard one. Using the wrong number won't send money to the wrong place—the transfer will usually fail and bounce back—but it will delay things.
What to do if you can't find it
If you've searched your bank's website, don't have checks, and can't reach customer service, try searching "[Your Bank Name] [Your State] routing number" in a search engine. Many banks publish routing numbers by location because some large banks have different numbers for different regions.
If your bank is very small or is a credit union, the routing number might be listed on their main website under "Contact Us" or "Banking Information." If you still can't find it after these steps, visiting a branch in person is the last resort—any teller can give it to you in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same as my bank's main routing number?
Not always. Large banks may have different routing numbers for different branches or regions. The routing number tied to your specific account is the one you need. If you use the bank's main routing number and it doesn't match your account, the transfer may fail.
Can I use someone else's routing number to send them money?
Yes. The routing number tells the system which bank to send money to. Combined with an account number, it directs the money to the right person at that bank. You don't need the recipient's routing number—you need their account number. The routing number is for the receiving bank, not the person.
What if I give the wrong routing number?
The transfer will usually fail and the money will return to your account within a few business days. The banking system checks that the routing number matches the account number. If they don't line up, the transfer is rejected before it leaves your bank.
Do I need my routing number for online bill pay?
Usually not. When you pay a bill through your bank's website, the bank already knows where to send the money. You enter the company's name and account information, not routing numbers. Wire transfers and setting up direct deposit are the main situations where you'll need to provide your own routing number.
Is it safe to share my routing number?
Yes. Your routing number is not secret—it's printed on every check you write. Someone with only your routing number cannot access your account or move money without also having your account number and other identifying information. Treat it like the bank's address, not like a password.