What a routing number is and why Chase uses different ones
A routing number is a nine-digit code that tells the banking system which Chase branch or processing center should handle your transaction. It is not the same as your account number. When you send money to someone else's account, receive a direct deposit, or set up an automatic payment, the routing number directs that money to the right place inside Chase's network.
Chase does not use a single routing number for all customers. The number you need depends on where you opened your account, what state you live in, and sometimes what type of account you have. A routing number for a Chase branch in New York will not work the same way as one for a branch in California. This is why you need to find the specific one tied to your account.
Key Takeaways
- Your Chase routing number is a nine-digit code specific to the branch or processing center where your account was opened, not a universal number for all Chase customers.
- You can find your routing number on the bottom left of your checks, in your Chase mobile app under account details, or by calling Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935.
- Different Chase locations use different routing numbers, so confirm you have the correct one for your account before sending or receiving money.
- If you are setting up direct deposit or a wire transfer, ask your employer or the sending bank for which routing number to use, because some situations have specific requirements.
Where to find your routing number on a check
The easiest way to find your Chase routing number is to look at a check from your account. At the bottom left of the check, you will see three groups of numbers separated by colons or vertical lines. The first group of nine digits is your routing number. The second group is your account number. The third is the check number itself.
If you do not have checks or cannot locate one, this method will not work for you. But if you have even one check from your current Chase account, you have the routing number you need. Write it down or take a photo, because you will use it again.
Finding your routing number in the Chase app or online
Open the Chase mobile app or log into your account at chase.com. Go to the account details or account information section — the exact name varies depending on whether you are on mobile or desktop, but it is usually under "Account" or "Settings." Your routing number should appear there alongside your account number.
If you cannot find it in the app, try logging into chase.com on a computer. The online version sometimes displays account details more clearly. If neither works, move to the phone method below.
Calling Chase to confirm your routing number
Call Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935. Have your account number ready. A representative can tell you the routing number for your specific account in under a minute. This is the most reliable method if you are unsure whether the number you found is correct, because the representative can confirm it matches your account type and location.
Chase customer service is available seven days a week. Wait times are usually shorter early in the morning on weekdays.
Routing numbers for different types of Chase accounts
Chase uses different routing numbers for checking accounts, savings accounts, and business accounts, though sometimes the same number works across account types at the same branch. The routing number is tied to the branch location where you opened the account, not to the account type itself.
If you have multiple Chase accounts at different branches, each may have a different routing number. For example, if you opened a checking account at a Chase branch in Denver and later opened a savings account at a Chase branch in Phoenix, those two accounts could have different routing numbers. Always use the routing number for the specific account you are sending money from or receiving money into.
What to do if you are setting up direct deposit or a wire transfer
Before you give your routing number to your employer or another bank, confirm it is the right one for the type of transaction. For direct deposit, your employer will ask for your routing number and account number. Use the routing number from your checks or the Chase app — this is almost always correct for payroll deposits.
For wire transfers, some banks have specific routing numbers for incoming wires that differ from the standard routing number. If you are receiving a wire transfer, ask the sending bank whether they need a special wire routing number for Chase, or call Chase at 1-800-935-9935 and ask them directly. This takes one minute and prevents the money from going to the wrong place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same as my account number?
No. Your routing number identifies the Chase branch or processing center (nine digits, on the left of your check). Your account number identifies your specific account (usually 10 to 12 digits, in the middle of your check). You need both for most transactions.
Can I use the same routing number for all my Chase accounts?
Not always. If all your accounts are at the same branch, they likely share one routing number. If you opened accounts at different Chase locations, they may have different routing numbers. Check the routing number for the specific account you are using.
What if the routing number on my old checks is different from the one in my app?
This can happen if you moved, if Chase reorganized its branches, or if you switched account types. Use the routing number from your app or call Chase to confirm which one is current. Old checks may have outdated information.
Do I need a different routing number for online transfers versus checks?
No. The same routing number works for checks, online transfers, direct deposits, and automatic payments. The routing number itself does not change based on how you send the money.