Where to find your bank identification code

Your bank's identification code is printed on the bottom left of every check you write. It is a nine-digit number, usually formatted as three groups separated by hyphens (for example: 021000021). This number, called the routing number or ABA number, tells the banking system which bank holds your account.

If you do not have checks, you can find this same number in three other places: your bank's website (usually under account information or settings), a call to your bank's customer service line, or through the Federal Reserve's routing number search tool at frbservices.org. Each method takes less than five minutes.

You will need this code when you set up direct deposit, arrange a wire transfer, or authorize automatic bill payments. Some employers and government agencies ask for it before they can send you money. Knowing where to find it quickly saves you a phone call later.

Key Takeaways

  • Your routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks as a nine-digit code, usually in three groups separated by hyphens.
  • You can also find your routing number on your bank's website, by calling customer service, or through the Federal Reserve's public search tool.
  • Different banks have different routing numbers, and some large banks have multiple routing numbers depending on which branch or service handles your account.
  • You will need this code to set up direct deposit, authorize wire transfers, and arrange automatic payments from your account.

Finding the routing number on your checks

Look at the bottom left corner of any check. You will see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines or hyphens. The first group of nine digits is your routing number. The second group is your account number. The third group is the check number itself.

The routing number is always nine digits long. If you see a different length, you are looking at the wrong set of numbers. Some checks also print the routing number in a slightly different location or format depending on the bank, but the bottom left corner is the standard place.

Using your bank's website or app

Log into your online banking account and look for a section labeled "Account Information," "Account Details," or "Settings." Most banks display your routing number alongside your account number in this section. You may need to click into a specific account if you have multiple accounts with the same bank.

If you cannot find it on the main account page, try looking under "Wire Transfer Information" or "Direct Deposit Setup." Banks often group this information together because these are the most common reasons someone needs a routing number. If the website does not show it clearly, move to the next method.

Calling your bank directly

Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or the number listed on your bank's website. Tell the representative you need your routing number. They will ask you to verify your identity (usually by providing your account number or the last four digits of your Social Security number) and then give you the number over the phone.

This method works even if you do not have checks or online access. The call typically takes two to three minutes. Write down the number they give you and keep it in a safe place, since you may need it multiple times.

Using the Federal Reserve's routing number search

The Federal Reserve maintains a public database of all routing numbers used by banks in the United States. Go to frbservices.org and select "Fedwire Participant Search" or look for their routing number lookup tool. You will need to enter your bank's name and state.

This search returns all routing numbers associated with that bank. If your bank is large or has multiple branches, you may see several numbers listed. The routing number for your specific branch or account type is usually the first one listed, but if you are unsure, call your bank to confirm which one applies to your account.

Understanding why banks have multiple routing numbers

Large banks often have more than one routing number. Different routing numbers may be used for checking accounts versus savings accounts, for different regions of the country, or for different types of transactions like wire transfers versus ACH transfers. This does not mean anything is wrong with your account—it is straightforward how the banking system is organized.

When you need your routing number, the context matters. If you are setting up direct deposit for your paycheck, your employer will tell you which type of routing number they need. If you are arranging a wire transfer, your bank will tell you which routing number to use. When in doubt, ask the person or organization requesting the number which one they need, or provide the routing number from your checks—that one works for most standard transactions.

What to do if you cannot find your routing number

If none of the above methods work, call your bank's main customer service line. Have your account number ready. The representative can give you the correct routing number for your specific account type and transaction. Some banks also print this information on your bank statements, so check a recent statement if you have one available.

If you are trying to find the routing number for a bank that has closed or merged, search for the name of the bank that currently holds your account. Your account may have been transferred to a new institution, and that new bank's routing number is what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my routing number the same as my account number?

No. Your routing number identifies your bank; your account number identifies your specific account at that bank. On a check, the routing number is the first group of nine digits on the bottom left, and your account number is the second group. You need both for most banking transactions.

Can I use someone else's routing number if we bank at the same place?

Yes, as long as you both use the same bank. The routing number identifies the bank, not the individual account. However, you must use your own account number so the money goes to your account, not theirs.

Do I need a different routing number for wire transfers versus direct deposit?

Sometimes. Some banks use different routing numbers for different transaction types. When you set up a wire transfer or direct deposit, the bank or employer requesting the information will tell you which routing number to use. If they do not specify, the routing number from your checks works for most transactions.

What if my bank merged with another bank?

After a merger, your account is usually transferred to the new bank's routing number. Check your most recent bank statement or log into your online account to find the current routing number. If you are unsure, call the bank that now holds your account.

Is it safe to share my routing number?

Yes. Your routing number is public information—it is printed on every check you write and is listed in public databases. However, never share your full account number with anyone you do not trust. Scammers need both your routing number and account number to access your funds.