Where to find your routing number in seconds
Your bank's routing number is printed on the bottom left of every check you have. Look at the first set of nine digits on the left side of the bottom line — that is your routing number. If you do not have checks, you can find it by logging into your online banking account, calling your bank's customer service line, or visiting your bank's website.
The routing number is the same for all customers at your bank, though some large banks have different routing numbers for different regions or account types. When you need it for a refund, payment, or direct deposit, you are looking for the routing number that matches your specific branch or account type — your bank's customer service team can confirm which one applies to you.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks as a nine-digit code, before your account number.
- You can find your routing number by logging into online banking, calling customer service, or checking your bank's website.
- Large banks may have multiple routing numbers for different regions or account types, so confirm you have the correct one for your account.
- The routing number stays the same even if you move branches or change accounts at the same bank, unless you switch to a different bank entirely.
Finding your routing number online
Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for account details or account information. Most banks display your routing number alongside your account number in a section labeled "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Direct Deposit Setup." If you cannot find it on the main account page, check the settings or profile section.
If your bank's website does not show the routing number, search for "[Your Bank Name] routing number" in a search engine. Your bank's official website usually has a page listing routing numbers by branch or region. Write down the exact routing number shown — do not use a routing number from a third-party site unless you verify it against your bank's official page first.
Calling your bank to confirm the routing number
Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or the number listed on your bank's official website. Tell the representative you need your routing number for a direct deposit or refund. They will give you the nine-digit code and can confirm whether you need a different routing number based on your account type or branch location.
This is the safest method if you are unsure whether you have the correct routing number, especially if your bank has multiple locations or if you recently moved. The representative can also tell you if your bank uses the same routing number for all accounts or if yours is different.
What to do if your bank has multiple routing numbers
Large national banks like Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and Citibank often have different routing numbers for different states or regions. If you see more than one routing number listed on your bank's website, match the one to your state or the branch where you opened your account. Your online banking account should show which routing number is tied to your specific account.
When you are setting up direct deposit for a tax refund or other payment, use the routing number that corresponds to your account, not just any routing number your bank uses. If you enter the wrong routing number, the deposit may be delayed or sent to the wrong account. Call your bank if you are not certain which one is yours.
Routing number versus account number
Do not confuse your routing number with your account number. The routing number identifies your bank; the account number identifies your specific account at that bank. On a check, the routing number is the first nine digits on the bottom left, and your account number follows it. Both are needed for direct deposit or wire transfers.
When you provide your information for a refund or payment, you will usually need to enter both numbers. If you only have one, contact your bank for the other before you submit the form.
Using a routing number lookup tool safely
Third-party routing number lookup websites exist, but verify any result against your bank's official website or a call to customer service before using it. Some lookup tools are maintained by financial institutions and are reliable; others may be outdated or incorrect. The safest approach is to get the number directly from your bank.
If you use a lookup tool, cross-check the result by calling your bank or logging into your account. This takes only a few minutes and prevents the mistake of using an incorrect routing number for a refund or deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the routing number change if I move to a different branch?
Usually not. Your routing number is tied to your bank and account type, not to a specific branch location. However, some large banks assign different routing numbers by state or region. Contact your bank to confirm whether your routing number stays the same if you switch branches.
Can I use any routing number my bank has, or does it have to be the exact one for my account?
You should use the routing number that matches your account type and location. Using a different routing number your bank owns may delay the deposit or cause it to fail. Your online banking account or a call to customer service will show you the correct one for your account.
What happens if I enter the wrong routing number for a tax refund?
The refund may be deposited into the wrong account or rejected entirely. If you realize the error before the deposit is processed, contact the IRS or the agency sending the refund immediately. If the money went to the wrong account, you may need to file a claim or work with your bank to recover it.
Is my routing number the same as my bank's swift code?
No. A routing number is used for domestic transfers within the United States. A SWIFT code is used for international wire transfers. Your bank can provide both if you need them for different purposes.