Your routing number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it on your bank's website in the customer service section

The fastest way is to look at a check from your account. The routing number is the first set of nine digits on the bottom left, before your account number. If you don't have checks handy, log into your online banking portal — most banks display the routing number under account details, settings, or a section labeled "account information." You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask; they'll give it to you in under a minute.

Some banks print the routing number on statements or debit cards, though not all do. If your bank has a physical branch nearby, you can walk in and ask. The routing number is public information — banks don't treat it as sensitive the way they do your account number or PIN.

Key Takeaways

  • Your routing number appears as the first nine digits on the bottom left of any check from your account.
  • Online banking portals usually show your routing number under account details or settings without requiring you to log in to a special section.
  • Calling your bank's customer service number gets you the answer in one call, and the number is listed on your debit card or bank statement.
  • The routing number is the same for all accounts at your bank in your state, so you only need to find it once.

Check your online banking portal first

Log into your bank's website or mobile app and navigate to the account details or settings page. Most banks display the routing number prominently alongside your account number. Look for sections titled "account information," "account details," "bank information," or "wire transfer information" — routing numbers are usually listed there because people need them for wire transfers and direct deposits.

If you can't find it in those sections, try the FAQ or help page. Search for "routing number" on the bank's website; most have a dedicated page that lists it. Some banks also include it in the footer of your online banking dashboard.

Call your bank's customer service line

The phone number for customer service is on your debit card, your bank statement, or the bank's website. When you call, tell them you need your routing number. They'll ask for your account number or the phone number associated with your account to verify you, then give you the nine-digit number.

This route takes five to ten minutes total, including hold time. Have your account number or the phone number on file ready so the verification step moves faster.

Visit a branch in person

Walk into any branch of your bank with your ID and ask for your routing number. The teller or customer service representative will write it down for you on the spot. This works if you're already in the area or prefer talking to someone face-to-face.

Branch hours vary, so check your bank's website for locations and times before you go. Some banks have limited branch networks, so this option may not be practical depending on where you live.

Look at a check or bank statement

If you have a checkbook, open it and look at the bottom of any check. You'll see three groups of numbers separated by colons or special symbols. The first group — always nine digits — is your routing number. The second group is your account number.

Some bank statements also print the routing number, though not all do. If your statement includes it, it's usually near the account number or in a section labeled "banking information."

Understand what the routing number actually is

Your routing number identifies which bank or credit union you use and which branch or processing center handles your account. It's not secret — it's printed on every check you write. The routing number is the same for all customers at your bank in your state, so if you have multiple accounts at the same bank, they share the same routing number.

You need the routing number for direct deposits, wire transfers, setting up automatic bill payments, and ACH transfers (moving money between banks). It's different from your account number, which is unique to your specific account. Never confuse the two when providing information to an employer, lender, or payment service.

What to do if you can't find it

If you've checked your checks, your online portal, and your statement and still don't see it, call customer service. They have access to your account and can tell you when ready. You can also visit a branch — staff there can look it up in seconds.

If you've switched banks recently and need your old bank's routing number, that bank's website will have it even if you no longer have an account there. Search "[bank name] routing number" online and you'll find it on the bank's official site or on a third-party banking resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the routing number the same for all my accounts at the same bank?

Yes. Your bank's routing number is the same whether you have a checking account, savings account, or both. The routing number identifies the bank; your account number identifies which specific account within that bank.

Can I find someone else's routing number?

Yes, routing numbers are public. If you know someone's bank name and state, you can search online for that bank's routing number. This is why routing numbers are not treated as sensitive information the way account numbers are.

What if my bank merged with another bank?

After a merger, your routing number may change. Log into your online banking portal or call customer service to confirm your current routing number. They'll tell you if it's changed and when the change takes effect.

Do credit unions have routing numbers?

Yes. Credit unions use routing numbers the same way banks do. You can find your credit union's routing number using the same methods — checks, online portal, or by calling customer service.