A bank transit number is a nine-digit code that identifies the specific branch where your account is held
When you write a check or set up a direct deposit, you are telling someone else's bank where to find your money. A transit number (also called a routing number) is how that bank knows which branch of your bank to contact. It is printed on the bottom left of every check you receive, and your bank can tell you the number in seconds if you call or log in online.
The transit number is not the same as your account number. Your account number identifies you personally within your bank. The transit number identifies your bank's branch. Together, they tell any other bank exactly where to send or pull money.
You will need this number when you set up direct deposit for a paycheck, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive a wire transfer. You may also need it if you are moving money between banks or if someone outside your bank needs to send you funds.
Key Takeaways
- A transit number is a nine-digit code printed on the bottom left of your checks that identifies your specific bank branch.
- You need a transit number to set up direct deposit, automatic bill payments, and wire transfers.
- Your transit number is different from your account number — the transit number identifies your bank, and your account number identifies you within that bank.
- You can find your transit number on a check, by calling your bank, or by logging into your online banking account.
- Each bank branch has its own transit number, so if you move to a different branch, your transit number may change.
Where to find your transit number
The easiest place to look is the bottom left corner of any check. You will see three groups of numbers. The first group, on the far left, is your transit number. The second group is your account number. The third group, on the far right, is the check number.
If you do not have checks, call your bank's customer service line — the number is on your debit card or bank statement. Tell them you need your transit number. They will give it to you when ready. You can also log into your online banking account; many banks display the transit number in the account details section, though you may need to look under "account information" or "routing number."
If you bank with a large national bank, the transit number may be the same across many branches. If you bank with a smaller or regional bank, each branch may have its own number. When you call or check online, make sure you have the number for the specific branch where your account is held.
How banks use your transit number
When your employer sets up direct deposit, they use your transit number and account number to tell their bank where to send your paycheck. Their bank contacts your bank using the transit number, finds the right branch, and deposits the money into your account.
The same process happens with automatic bill payments. When you set up a payment to your electric company or mortgage lender, you give them your transit number and account number. On the payment date, their bank contacts your bank, finds your branch, and withdraws the money from your account.
Wire transfers work the same way. If someone sends you money by wire, they provide their bank with your transit number and account number. Their bank uses the transit number to route the money to your bank and branch, then your account number to put it in your account.
The difference between a transit number and a routing number
These terms are used interchangeably, and they mean the same thing. "Transit number" is the older term, used more often on checks and in Canada. "Routing number" is the term the U.S. Federal Reserve uses. Your bank may use either term on its website or when you call, but they are referring to the same nine-digit code.
Some people also hear the term "ABA number." ABA stands for American Bankers Association, the organization that originally assigned these numbers. Again, this is the same nine-digit code with a different name.
What happens if you give the wrong transit number
If you give someone the wrong transit number, the money usually does not reach your account. Instead, it may go to the wrong bank or branch, or the sending bank may reject the transaction and send the money back to the sender.
If this happens, contact your bank and the sender's bank right away. Provide them with the correct transit number and ask them to resubmit the transaction. Direct deposits and bill payments can usually be corrected quickly. Wire transfers may take longer to trace and reverse, so it is worth double-checking the number before you give it out.
The good news is that the transit number is printed on your checks and available through your bank, so there is no reason to guess. If you are not sure, call your bank or check your account online.
Transit numbers for different types of accounts
Your transit number is the same whether you have a checking account, savings account, or money market account at the same branch. The number identifies the branch, not the type of account. If you have multiple accounts at the same branch, they all share the same transit number but have different account numbers.
If you have accounts at different branches of the same bank, each branch has its own transit number. For example, if you have a checking account at the downtown branch and a savings account at the uptown branch, those accounts have different transit numbers. When you set up a transfer between them, you will need both numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my transit number the same as my account number?
No. Your transit number identifies your bank branch. Your account number identifies you within that branch. You need both numbers to receive money from outside your bank. The transit number goes first, then your account number.
Can I use someone else's transit number by mistake?
If you accidentally give someone your bank's transit number but the wrong account number, the money will not reach your account. The sending bank will either reject the transaction or send the money to the wrong person. Always double-check both numbers before you give them out.
Do I need a transit number to use my debit card?
No. You only need a transit number when someone outside your bank is sending you money or pulling money from your account — like direct deposit, bill payments, or wire transfers. Debit card purchases do not require a transit number.
What if my bank merged with another bank?
After a merger, your transit number may change. Your bank will notify you and provide your new number. Update any automatic payments or direct deposits with the new number to avoid delays or failed transactions. Call your bank if you are unsure whether your number has changed.
Can I find someone else's transit number?
If you need to send money to someone, ask them for their transit number and account number directly. Do not try to look it up on your own. They can find it on a check, by calling their bank, or by logging into their online account.