Wells Fargo routing numbers depend on which state you bank in and what type of account you have
Wells Fargo does not have a single routing number. The bank uses different routing numbers for different states and account types — checking, savings, money market, and line of credit accounts may each have their own routing number. When you need to set up a direct deposit, wire transfer, or automatic payment, you need the routing number that matches your specific account and location.
The routing number is a nine-digit code that tells the banking system which Wells Fargo branch or processing center handles your account. It is not the same as your account number, and it is not secret — you can share it freely. Banks use it to route money to the correct destination.
Key Takeaways
- Wells Fargo routing numbers vary by state, so you need the one for the state where your account is held, not where you live now.
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks, in the first set of nine digits before your account number.
- You can find your routing number by logging into Wells Fargo online banking, calling the customer service number on the back of your card, or looking it up on the Wells Fargo website using your state.
- If you are setting up a direct deposit or wire transfer, ask the receiving institution which routing number they need — some situations require a specific processing center code rather than your branch routing number.
Where to find your routing number on a check
The easiest place to look is the bottom left corner of any check from your Wells Fargo account. You will see nine digits printed there, followed by your account number. That nine-digit code is your routing number. If you do not have checks or they are packed away, this is not your only option — but it is the fastest one.
The routing number on your checks is specific to the state where you opened your account. If you moved to a different state after opening your account, your routing number does not change. It stays tied to the original state.
Looking up your routing number online or by phone
Log into your Wells Fargo account on the bank's website or mobile app. Go to the account details or account information section — the exact location varies slightly between the website and app, but both have it. Your routing number will be listed there alongside your account number.
If you do not have online access or prefer to call, dial the customer service number on the back of your Wells Fargo debit or credit card. A representative can tell you your routing number over the phone. You can also call the main Wells Fargo customer service line, though you may wait longer.
The Wells Fargo website also has a routing number lookup tool. You enter your state, and it shows you the routing numbers for that state. This is useful if you are not sure which state your account is registered to, or if you need a different routing number than the one on your checks.
Routing numbers for wire transfers and ACH payments
Most of the time, the routing number on your check works for direct deposits, automatic bill payments, and ACH transfers — the electronic transfers that take one to three business days. However, wire transfers sometimes require a different routing number.
If you are sending or receiving a wire transfer, ask the other bank or institution which routing number they need. They may ask for a "wire routing number" or "ABA number," which can differ from your standard routing number. Wells Fargo customer service can provide this if you call and tell them you are setting up a wire transfer.
The distinction matters because wire transfers move through a different system than ACH payments. Using the wrong routing number for a wire can delay the transfer or send it to the wrong place entirely.
What happens if you use the wrong routing number
If you give someone the wrong routing number, the money may be sent to a different bank or a different Wells Fargo branch than you intended. The sending bank will eventually catch the error and either return the funds or contact you to correct the destination. This process can take several days to a few weeks.
If you are setting up a direct deposit — for example, from your employer — and you provide the wrong routing number, your paycheck will not arrive on payday. Your employer will need to resubmit the deposit with the correct information, which usually means waiting for the next pay cycle.
Double-check your routing number before you submit it, especially for recurring payments like direct deposit or automatic bill pay. It takes 30 seconds and prevents delays.
Routing numbers for different account types
Most Wells Fargo customers use the same routing number regardless of whether their account is a checking account, savings account, or money market account. The routing number identifies the bank and the processing center, not the account type.
However, if you have a Wells Fargo line of credit or a specialized account, the routing number may be different. If you are unsure, check your account details in online banking or call customer service. They can confirm which routing number to use for your specific account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my Wells Fargo routing number the same as my account number?
No. Your routing number is nine digits and identifies Wells Fargo and your processing center. Your account number is longer and identifies your specific account. Both appear on your checks, with the routing number on the far left.
Do I need a different routing number if I moved to a new state?
No. Your routing number stays the same because it is tied to the state where you opened the account, not where you live now. You do not need to update it.
Can I share my routing number with anyone?
Yes. Your routing number is not sensitive information — it is printed on every check you write. You need to share it with employers for direct deposit, with billers for automatic payments, and with anyone sending you money via ACH transfer. Never share your full account number or PIN.
What if Wells Fargo tells me I need a different routing number for my wire transfer?
Wire transfers sometimes use a different routing number than ACH payments. If Wells Fargo gives you a wire routing number that differs from the one on your check, use the wire routing number for that specific transfer. Write down both numbers so you have them for future reference.
How long does it take to set up direct deposit with my routing number?
Once you provide your routing number and account number to your employer, direct deposit usually starts within one to two pay cycles. The first deposit may take longer than subsequent ones while the system processes the new setup.