The fastest way to find your routing number
Your bank routing number is printed on the bottom left of every check you have. If you have a checkbook in front of you right now, look at the first nine digits on the bottom of any check — that is your routing number. If you do not have checks, call your bank's customer service line (the number is on your debit card or bank statement) and ask for your routing number. They will give it to you in under a minute.
If you need it right now and cannot reach your bank by phone, log into your online banking portal. Most banks display your routing number in the account details or settings section, though the location varies. Some banks label it "routing number," others call it "ABA number" or "transit number" — they are the same thing.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of every check you own, as the first nine digits.
- Your bank's customer service line can tell you your routing number over the phone in under a minute.
- Online banking portals usually show your routing number in the account details or settings section.
- The routing number is the same for all accounts at the same bank branch, so you only need to find it once.
Looking it up through your bank's website
Go to your bank's main website and sign into your account. Once logged in, look for a section called "Account Details," "Account Information," "Routing Number," or "Bank Information." The exact name depends on your bank. Some banks put this under a settings or profile menu instead.
If you cannot find it in those places, look for a link that says "Wire Transfer Information" or "ACH Transfer Details" — routing numbers are always listed there because they are required for both. If your bank's website does not show it anywhere, that is unusual but not a problem — call them instead.
Calling your bank directly
The phone number for customer service is on the back of your debit card, on your bank statement, or on your bank's website. When you call, tell them you need your routing number. Have your account number ready (also on your checks or statement), but most banks will give you the routing number without it since it is the same for all customers at that branch.
If you are calling outside business hours, many banks have automated systems that can provide routing numbers. Listen to the menu options — there is often a choice for "account information" or "routing number" that does not require you to speak to a person.
Finding it on your bank statement
Open your most recent bank statement, whether printed or online. Some banks print the routing number at the top or bottom of the statement, often near your account number. Not all banks do this, so if you do not see it on your statement, try one of the other methods.
If you have an older statement from several years ago, the routing number on it is still correct — routing numbers do not change unless your bank merges with another bank or closes your branch.
Using the Federal Reserve's routing number database
The Federal Reserve maintains a public database of routing numbers at frbservices.org. Go to that site and look for the "Routing Number Lookup" tool. Enter your bank's name and state, and the database will show you the routing number for that bank's main office.
This method works if you know your bank's name and location but have lost your checks and cannot reach the bank by phone. Keep in mind that some large banks have multiple routing numbers for different regions or branches, so verify that the number you find matches the one your bank gave you if you are able to reach them later.
What to do if you have multiple accounts
If you have more than one account at the same bank — for example, a checking account and a savings account — they share the same routing number. You only need to find it once. However, if you have accounts at different banks, each bank has its own routing number.
If you have moved and your bank has branches in multiple states, your routing number may have changed when your account was transferred to a new branch. Call your bank to confirm which routing number is currently active for your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same as my account number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank or branch (nine digits on the left of your check). Your account number identifies your specific account at that bank (usually 10 to 12 digits in the middle of your check). Both are needed for wire transfers and ACH payments.
Can I use someone else's routing number if they bank at the same place?
Yes. If you and a friend both have accounts at the same bank branch, you have the same routing number. The routing number alone does not identify which account money goes to — you also need the account number for that.
What if my bank merged with another bank?
Your routing number may have changed. Call your bank or check your most recent statement to confirm. If you have old checks from before the merger, do not use them for new transactions — use your current routing number instead.
Do I need my routing number to use my debit card?
No. You only need your routing number for wire transfers, ACH transfers, direct deposit setup, and paying bills by check. Debit card purchases and ATM withdrawals do not require it.
Is it safe to share my routing number?
Yes. Your routing number is public information — it is printed on every check you write. Someone cannot withdraw money from your account using only your routing number; they also need your account number and usually additional verification. Never share your full account number or PIN with anyone you do not trust.