The fastest place to look is your checks or your bank's website
Your routing number and account number are printed on the bottom left of every check you have. The routing number comes first (nine digits), then your account number (usually ten to twelve digits). If you do not have checks or cannot read them clearly, log into your bank's website or mobile app — both numbers appear in the account details or settings section, often labeled "Account Information" or "Routing & Account Numbers."
If you cannot access your online account, call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your most recent bank statement. Have your account number or card ready when you call, and they will read both numbers to you over the phone.
You need these numbers when you set up direct deposit for a refund, receive a wire transfer, or authorize an automatic payment. Getting them wrong means your money goes to the wrong account or does not arrive at all, so double-check both numbers before you submit them anywhere.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number and account number are printed on the bottom left of your checks in that order.
- Log into your bank's website or app and look for "Account Information" or "Routing & Account Numbers" to find both numbers without a check.
- Call your bank's customer service line if you cannot access your account online — they can read the numbers to you immediately.
- Write down both numbers correctly before submitting them for direct deposit or wire transfers, because a mistake sends your money elsewhere.
- Your routing number stays the same for your bank, but your account number is unique to you and changes if you open a new account.
Finding your routing number on a check
Look at the bottom left corner of any check. You will see three groups of numbers separated by colons or vertical lines. The first group is your routing number — always nine digits. This number identifies your specific bank branch and the Federal Reserve district it belongs to.
The routing number is the same for all checks from the same account at the same bank. If you switch banks or open an account at a different branch, your routing number may change. Write it down exactly as printed, with all nine digits.
Finding your account number on a check
The second group of numbers on the bottom of your check is your account number. It usually runs ten to twelve digits long, though some banks use different lengths. This number is unique to your account only — no other account at your bank has the same number.
Your account number stays with you as long as you keep that account open. If you close the account and open a new one at the same bank, you get a new account number, but your routing number remains the same.
Getting both numbers from your bank's website or app
Log into your bank's website using a computer or open the mobile app on your phone. Look for a section called "Account Information," "Account Details," "Accounts," or "Settings." Most banks display your routing number and account number together on this page.
Some banks hide these numbers behind a link labeled "Routing Number" or "Bank Details." If you cannot find them on the main account page, try the settings menu or look for a "Help" section that explains where to find routing information. The numbers should appear in plain text — you do not need to download anything or enter a special code.
Take a screenshot or write down both numbers before you close the app or browser. Do not share these numbers with anyone except the organization that needs them for direct deposit or a wire transfer.
Calling your bank to get the numbers by phone
Find the customer service number on the back of your debit card, on a recent bank statement, or on your bank's website. Call during business hours and tell the representative you need your routing number and account number.
Have your account number or card ready when you call — they may ask you to verify your identity before reading the numbers aloud. Write down both numbers as they say them, and ask them to repeat each one to make sure you have it right. This usually takes less than five minutes.
What to do if you cannot find your routing number
If you have lost your checks and cannot access your online account, you can look up your routing number using your bank's name and location. The American Bankers Association maintains a searchable database at routingnumber.org, or you can search "[Your Bank Name] routing number" in any search engine.
Be careful to use the correct bank name and location — some large banks have different routing numbers for different regions or branches. If you search and find multiple numbers, call your bank to confirm which one belongs to your specific account.
Your account number cannot be looked up this way — it is unique to you and only your bank has it. You must contact your bank directly to get your account number if you do not have a check or online access.
Routing numbers for online banks and credit unions
Online banks and credit unions work the same way as traditional banks — they have routing numbers and account numbers. If your bank operates only online with no physical branches, log into your account on their website or app to find both numbers. The process is identical to a regular bank.
Credit unions also have routing numbers and account numbers. If you belong to a credit union, check your checks first, then log into your credit union's online banking system. If you need help, call the credit union's main number and ask for your routing and account numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same as my bank's routing number?
Not always. Large banks may have different routing numbers for different regions or branches. Your routing number is specific to the branch where your account is held. Check your checks or your online account to find the routing number for your specific account, not just your bank's main number.
Can I use someone else's routing and account number to send them money?
Yes, if they give you permission. You need their routing number and account number to set up a wire transfer or direct deposit to their account. Always confirm both numbers with them before you submit the transfer, because a mistake sends money to the wrong account.
What if the routing number on my check does not match what I find online?
This can happen if your bank merged with another bank or changed its routing number. Use the number from your online account or from your bank's website, as it is more current. If you are unsure, call your bank to confirm which number is correct for your account right now.
Do I need my routing number to receive a tax refund by direct deposit?
Yes. When you file your tax return and choose direct deposit, you must provide both your routing number and account number. The IRS uses these to deposit your refund directly into your bank account instead of mailing a check.
Can my routing number change?
Yes, but not often. Your routing number can change if your bank merges with another bank, if you move your account to a different branch, or if your bank reorganizes its routing structure. Check your most recent check or your online account to confirm your current routing number before you use it.