Where to find your routing number right now
Your bank's routing number is printed on the bottom left of every check you write — it's the first set of nine digits, before your account number. If you have checks on hand, that's the fastest place to look. If you don't have checks or prefer not to dig through a drawer, your bank's website has it listed in the account details section, usually under "Account Information" or "Routing & Account Numbers." You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask; they'll give it to you in under a minute.
The routing number is the same for everyone at your bank in your region — it doesn't change based on your account type or balance. If you bank at a large national chain like Chase, Bank of America, or Wells Fargo, the routing number depends on which state your account was opened in, so make sure you're looking at the right one for your location.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks as the first nine-digit sequence.
- Log into your bank's website or app and navigate to account details or settings to find it without writing a check.
- Call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card if you need it immediately.
- The routing number is the same for all customers at your bank in your state, but may differ if you bank in multiple states.
- The Federal Reserve maintains a public database where you can search by bank name and state if you've switched banks or forgotten which one you use.
Using your bank's website or mobile 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. Some banks hide it one level deeper — you may need to click on a specific account tile first, then select "View Account Details" or "Account Numbers."
If you use your bank's mobile app, the same information is usually available. Open the app, tap on the account you want, and look for a menu option that says "Account Info" or a gear icon for settings. The routing number will be listed there. Take a screenshot or write it down so you have it when you need it for a wire transfer, direct deposit setup, or other transaction.
Calling your bank directly
The phone number for customer service is printed on the back of your debit card. Call that number, tell the representative you need your routing number, and they'll read it to you. You don't need to provide much information — just confirm your name and the last four digits of your account number, and they'll give you the routing number for your account's home state.
This method works even if you're locked out of your online account or don't have checks available. Customer service lines are usually open during business hours and sometimes 24/7, depending on your bank. If you're calling outside business hours, you may reach an automated system that can direct you to the information or take a message.
Finding a routing number for a bank you no longer use
If you've closed an account or switched banks and need the old routing number for a past transaction or tax record, the Federal Reserve maintains a public routing number database at frbservices.org. Go to the "Routing Number Lookup" tool, enter the bank name and the state where you held the account, and it will return the routing number. This works for any bank in the United States, current or defunct.
You can also contact the bank directly, even if you no longer have an account there. Their customer service can provide historical routing numbers if you explain why you need it. Keep in mind that some very small banks or credit unions may have changed routing numbers over the years, so if you're researching an old transaction, the number may not match what you remember.
Understanding routing numbers by bank and state
Large national banks often have multiple routing numbers — one for each state or region where they operate. Chase, for example, has different routing numbers for Chase accounts opened in New York versus California. When you look up your routing number, make sure you're getting the one that matches the state where your account is registered, not where you currently live.
Credit unions use a different system. Instead of a routing number, they use an ABA routing number that identifies the specific credit union branch. If you bank at a credit union, the same lookup process applies — check your checks, your online account, or call the branch directly.
What to do if you can't find your routing number
If you've tried your checks, your online account, and calling customer service and still don't have it, use the Federal Reserve's routing number database. You'll need to know your bank's name and the state where you opened the account. Search for the bank, and the database will return all routing numbers associated with it.
If your bank is very small or regional and doesn't appear in the Federal Reserve database, contact the bank's main office directly. Ask for the routing number associated with your account's home branch. Have your account number ready when you call — they may ask for it to confirm you're a customer, even if you're no longer active.
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 nine digits on the bottom left, and your account number follows it. You need both for wire transfers and direct deposit setup.
Can I use any routing number for my bank, or does it have to be the exact one?
You must use the routing number for the specific branch or state where your account is held. Using the wrong routing number will cause the transaction to fail or be delayed. If your bank has multiple routing numbers, make sure you're using the one that matches your account's location.
Do I need my routing number to check my account balance?
No. You only need your routing number for transactions that move money between banks — wire transfers, setting up direct deposit, or linking your account to another financial institution. For checking your balance or paying bills within your own bank, you don't need it.
What if my bank merged with another bank — which routing number do I use?
After a merger, your bank may have assigned you a new routing number, or kept the old one. Log into your online account or call customer service to confirm which routing number is currently active for your account. Don't assume the old number still works.
Can someone use my routing number to steal money from my account?
Your routing number alone is not enough to access your account. Someone would also need your account number and other identifying information. However, don't share your full account number and routing number together with people you don't trust, as that combination can be used to set up unauthorized transfers.