The fastest way to find your routing number
Your bank's routing number is printed on the bottom left of every check you have. If you have a checkbook, open it and look at the first check — the nine-digit number on the far left, before your account number, is your routing number. That is the quickest answer for most people.
If you do not have checks or cannot find them, your bank's website has the routing number listed in the customer service section, usually under "Banking Information" or "Account Details". You can also call your bank's customer service line — the number is on the back of your debit card — and ask for the routing number. They will give it to you in under a minute.
Some banks have different routing numbers for different regions or for different types of transactions (like wire transfers versus ACH transfers). When you call or look online, confirm that the number you find matches the type of transfer you are making.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of any check you own, before your account number.
- Your bank's website lists the routing number under customer service or account information sections.
- Calling your bank's customer service line on the back of your debit card will give you the routing number immediately.
- Some banks use different routing numbers for wire transfers versus ACH transfers, so confirm which one you need.
- The routing number is always nine digits and belongs to your bank, not to your individual account.
Finding the routing number on your checks
Every personal check has three sets of numbers printed on the bottom. From left to right, they are: the routing number (nine digits), your account number (usually ten to twelve digits), and the check number (four or five digits). The routing number always comes first and is always nine digits long.
If your checks are old or faded, the numbers may be hard to read. Hold the check up to a light or scan it with your phone's camera and zoom in. The routing number is the leftmost set of nine digits, and it will be the same on every check from your account.
Looking up the routing number on your bank's website
Log into your online banking account and look for a section labeled "Account Information," "Banking Details," "Routing Number," or "Wire Transfer Information." Most banks put this information on the main dashboard or under a settings menu. The routing number will be listed alongside your account number.
If you cannot find it on the main pages, try the FAQ or Help section and search for "routing number." Many banks have a dedicated page that lists routing numbers for each branch or region. Some banks also let you download a document with your account details that includes the routing number.
If your bank does not show the routing number online, or if you do not have online banking set up, call customer service. You do not need to log in or verify your identity beyond what they normally ask — the routing number is public information tied to your bank, not a secret.
Calling your bank to get the routing number
The phone number for your bank's customer service is printed on the back of your debit card. Call that number and tell the representative you need your routing number. They will ask which branch you use or which type of transaction you are making, then give you the nine-digit number.
Have your account number or debit card ready when you call, but you will not need to provide sensitive information like your PIN or full Social Security number just to get the routing number. The call usually takes less than five minutes.
Understanding routing numbers for different transaction types
Most people use the same routing number for all transactions — direct deposits, bill payments, wire transfers, and ACH transfers. However, some large banks have separate routing numbers for wire transfers or for branches in different states. If you are setting up a wire transfer, ask specifically whether you need the wire transfer routing number or the standard routing number.
The routing number you need depends on how money is moving. For direct deposit from your employer or a tax refund, use the standard routing number. For a wire transfer to another bank, confirm with your bank whether they use a different routing number. When in doubt, ask the person or organization requesting the routing number which type they need.
What to do if you cannot find your routing number
If you have tried checks, the website, and calling customer service and still do not have the number, contact your bank's branch in person. Bring your debit card or a piece of mail showing your account number. A teller can give you the routing number immediately and can also confirm whether you need a different number for wire transfers.
If you are trying to set up a direct deposit or payment and your employer or the receiving organization needs the routing number urgently, call your bank first and ask them to email or text it to you. Most banks can do this within minutes if you are logged into your account.
Verifying the routing number is correct
Once you have the routing number, double-check it against at least one other source before you use it for a transfer. If you found it on a check, verify it on your bank's website or by calling. If you got it from customer service, confirm it matches what appears on your checks or online.
The routing number should always be nine digits. If the number you have is longer or shorter, or if it contains letters, it is not a routing number — you may have copied your account number or check number instead. Go back and verify which set of numbers you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number the same for all branches of my bank?
Usually yes, but not always. Large banks with branches across multiple states sometimes use different routing numbers by region or state. Call your bank or check their website to confirm whether your branch uses the standard routing number or a regional one.
Can I use someone else's routing number if they bank at the same bank as me?
Yes. The routing number belongs to the bank, not to the individual account. If you and a friend both have accounts at the same bank and branch, you both use the same routing number. Your account number is what distinguishes your account from theirs.
Do I need a different routing number for wire transfers?
Some banks do use a separate routing number for wire transfers. Ask your bank or the organization requesting the wire transfer which routing number they need. If you are unsure, provide the standard routing number from your checks first — the bank will correct you if a different one is required.
What if my bank merged with another bank?
After a merger, your routing number may stay the same or change depending on how the banks consolidated their systems. Check your most recent statement or call customer service to confirm your current routing number. Do not assume it is the same as it was before the merger.
Can someone steal money from my account if they have my routing number?
The routing number alone is not enough to access your account or move money. Someone would also need your account number and typically additional verification. Treat your routing number like the bank name — it is public information. Keep your account number and PIN private.