Wells Fargo's routing number depends on which state your account is in

Wells Fargo does not have a single routing number for the whole bank. Instead, each state has its own routing number, and some large states have more than one. The routing number you need is the one for the state where your account was opened, not where you live now.

A routing number is a nine-digit code that tells the banking system which bank and which branch location to send money to. You need it when you set up direct deposit, pay bills by check, or transfer money between banks. Using the wrong routing number can delay a payment or send it to the wrong place.

The fastest way to find your routing number is to look at the bottom left corner of any check you have from that account. The first nine digits are your routing number. If you do not have a check, you can find it on Wells Fargo's website or by calling the bank.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Wells Fargo routing number is printed on the bottom left of your checks as the first nine-digit number.
  • The routing number changes based on the state where your account was opened, not your current location.
  • You can find your state's routing number on Wells Fargo's official routing number lookup page or by calling customer service.
  • Using the correct routing number is essential for direct deposit, wire transfers, and bill payments to reach the right account.

How to find your routing number on a check

If you have a checkbook, the routing number is always in the same place. Look at the bottom of any check. On the far left, you will see nine digits printed in a special magnetic ink. Those nine digits are your routing number.

The next set of numbers after the routing number is your account number. Do not confuse the two. The routing number identifies the bank and location; the account number identifies your specific account at that bank.

Finding your routing number without a check

Go to Wells Fargo's routing number lookup tool on their website. You will need to enter your state and the type of account you have (checking or savings). The site will show you the correct routing number for that state.

You can also call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557. Have your account number ready, and tell them the state where you opened your account. They will give you the correct routing number over the phone.

Routing numbers for common states

Wells Fargo routing numbers vary by state. Some states have only one routing number for all Wells Fargo accounts in that state. Other states, like California and Texas, have multiple routing numbers depending on which part of the state your account is in.

Rather than list every state here (since routing numbers can change and vary by account type), use the Wells Fargo lookup tool or call the bank. This ensures you get the exact number for your specific account and location.

When you need your routing number

You will need your routing number when you set up direct deposit for your paycheck or benefits. Your employer or the benefits office will ask for it so they know which bank and account to deposit money into.

You also need it when you pay bills online through your bank's bill pay service, when you transfer money to another bank, or when someone outside your bank sends you money via ACH transfer (a common way to move money between banks electronically).

What happens if you use the wrong routing number

If you give someone the wrong routing number, the money may go to a different Wells Fargo account or to a different bank entirely. The payment will not reach you, and it can take days or weeks to trace where it went and get it back.

Always double-check your routing number before you give it to an employer, a lender, or anyone else sending you money. A small mistake in one digit can send money to the wrong place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my routing number the same as my account number?

No. Your routing number identifies Wells Fargo and the location where your account was opened. Your account number identifies your specific account. Both appear on your checks, but in different places. The routing number is the first nine digits on the bottom left; the account number comes after it.

Can I use the same routing number for checking and savings accounts?

Usually yes, if both accounts are at the same Wells Fargo location in the same state. However, some account types or older accounts may have different routing numbers. If you have both types of accounts, check each one separately using the Wells Fargo lookup tool to be certain.

What if I moved to a different state after opening my account?

Your routing number does not change when you move. It stays tied to the state and location where you originally opened the account. You do not need to update it or open a new account.

Can I find my routing number on my debit card or online banking?

Your debit card does not show your routing number. Your online banking account may display it under account details or settings, but the easiest way is still to check a check or use the Wells Fargo lookup tool.