A savings account has two main numbers: your account number and your routing number
Your account number is a unique identifier for your specific savings account at your bank. It typically runs 8 to 17 digits long, depending on the bank. Your routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank itself, not your account. Together, these two numbers let money move into and out of your account correctly.
You will see these numbers printed on the bottom left of your checks, if your bank issues them. The routing number comes first (nine digits), then your account number (variable length). If you do not have checks, you can find both numbers by logging into your online banking portal, calling your bank's customer service line, or visiting a branch in person.
Some banks also assign you a customer ID or member number, which identifies you as a person across all your accounts at that institution. This is separate from your account number and is used mainly for customer service purposes. You may need it when calling to report fraud or dispute a transaction, but it is not required for moving money in or out.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number identifies your specific savings account and is 8 to 17 digits long depending on the bank.
- Your routing number is always nine digits and identifies the bank itself, not your account.
- Both numbers appear on the bottom of checks in order: routing number first, then account number.
- You can find both numbers online, by phone, or in person at your bank if you do not have checks.
- A customer ID or member number is separate from your account number and is used mainly for customer service calls.
Where to find your account and routing numbers
If you have checks, look at the bottom left corner. You will see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group (nine digits) is your routing number. The second group is your account number. The third group is the check number itself.
If you do not have checks or cannot locate them, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Most banks display both numbers on your account dashboard or in an "Account Details" or "Account Information" section. You can usually find them without navigating more than two clicks.
You can also call your bank's customer service number (on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website) and provide your name and account details. A representative will read both numbers to you. Some banks also display these numbers on your monthly statement, though not all do.
Why banks use two separate numbers instead of one
The routing number system was created decades before modern banking technology and has remained in place because it works across all U.S. banks. Every bank and credit union has a unique routing number assigned by the Federal Reserve. This allows any bank to send money to any other bank without confusion, even when two banks have customers with the same account number.
Your account number, by contrast, only needs to be unique within your bank. Two different banks can have customers with account number 123456789 without any problem, because the routing number tells the system which bank to look in. This separation makes the system more efficient and prevents errors when money moves between institutions.
If you only had one number, the banking system would need to be completely redesigned, and transfers between banks would be slower and more error-prone. The two-number system is why you can move money between your savings account at Bank A and your checking account at Bank B without either bank needing to contact the other directly.
What happens if you give someone the wrong number
If you give someone your account number but the wrong routing number, the money will go to the wrong bank. It will not reach your account, and you will need to contact both banks to trace and recover it. The sending bank can usually retrieve the transfer, but it may take several business days.
If you give the correct routing number but a wrong account number, the money will reach your bank but go into the wrong account—either another customer's account or a suspense account the bank holds for unmatched transfers. Your bank will contact the other account holder or hold the money while they investigate. Again, recovery is usually possible but takes time.
For this reason, always double-check both numbers before you give them out, especially for large transfers. If you are setting up a direct deposit or automatic transfer, test it with a small amount first to confirm both numbers are correct before committing a full paycheck or large sum.
Account numbers and security
Your account number is semi-public information. You give it out whenever you set up direct deposit, arrange a wire transfer, or authorize an automatic payment. It appears on checks you mail to people. It is not a secret like a password or PIN.
However, your account number alone is not enough for someone to drain your account. They would also need your routing number, and even with both, most transfers require additional verification—a password, a one-time code sent to your phone, or a signature. Banks also monitor for unusual activity and can block transfers that look suspicious.
That said, do not post your account number on social media or share it with people you do not trust. If someone has both your account and routing number plus your name, they can attempt unauthorized transfers or set up fraudulent automatic payments. If you suspect fraud, contact your bank when ready and report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
International transfers and SWIFT codes
If you are receiving money from outside the United States, you may need additional numbers beyond your account and routing number. Many international transfers require a SWIFT code (also called a BIC code), which is similar to a routing number but used for banks outside the U.S.
Some U.S. banks have their own SWIFT code. Others do not, and the sender must use the SWIFT code of a larger correspondent bank that handles international transfers on their behalf. You can find your bank's SWIFT code by asking customer service or checking your bank's website under "International Transfers" or "Wire Instructions."
For transfers within the U.S., you never need a SWIFT code—only your routing number and account number. SWIFT codes are only for money coming from or going to banks outside the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone withdraw money from my account if they only have my account number?
No. Your account number alone is not enough. They would need your routing number as well, plus additional verification like a password, PIN, or authorization code. Banks also monitor for suspicious activity and can block unauthorized transfers. If you are concerned, contact your bank when ready.
Is my account number the same as my debit card number?
No. Your debit card number is different from your account number. Your debit card number appears on the front of your card and is used for purchases and ATM withdrawals. Your account number is used for transfers, direct deposits, and bill payments. You can find your account number on checks or in your online banking portal.
Do I need my routing number to use my debit card?
No. Your routing number is only needed for transfers between banks, direct deposits, and bill payments. You do not need it to swipe your debit card, withdraw cash at an ATM, or check your balance. You only need your debit card itself and your PIN.
What if my bank merges with another bank—do my account and routing numbers change?
Usually your account number stays the same, but your routing number may change to match the new bank's routing number. Your bank will notify you in advance and update any automatic payments or direct deposits on your behalf. If you have set up transfers manually, you may need to update the routing number in your other accounts.
Can I use my account number to receive money from someone at a different bank?
Yes, but you need to give them both your account number and your routing number. Your account number alone is not enough—they need the routing number to know which bank to send the money to. Always provide both numbers together when setting up transfers or direct deposits.