The fastest way: check a check or log into your bank online
Your routing number and account number are printed on every check you have. The routing number is the nine-digit code on the left side of the bottom line. Your account number is the longer code in the middle. If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app — both numbers appear in the account details or settings section, usually labeled "Account Information" or "Bank Details".
If you bank with a major institution like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or Citibank, the online route takes under a minute. Smaller banks and credit unions may bury the information deeper in their dashboard, but it is always there somewhere in the account section.
Do not call your bank's main line and wait on hold. The information is already in your hands — on paper or on screen.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number and account number both appear on the bottom of any check you have, printed in the standard MICR format.
- Logging into your bank's website or app is faster than calling and shows both numbers in the account details section.
- The routing number is always nine digits; your account number length varies by bank but is usually 10 to 12 digits.
- If you have lost access to your account or cannot find the numbers, call your bank's customer service line with your ID ready.
Reading the numbers on a check
The bottom of a check has three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group on the left is your routing number — always nine digits. The middle group is your account number. The third group on the right is the check number itself, which you do not need.
The routing number identifies your bank or credit union. The account number identifies your specific account at that bank. Together, they tell any organization where to send or pull money.
If your checks are old or faded, the numbers may be hard to read. In that case, skip to your bank's website or app instead.
Finding them through your bank's website or app
Log in to your bank's online banking portal or mobile app using your username and password. Look for a section called "Account Information," "Account Details," "My Accounts," or "Settings." Click or tap into your checking or savings account — whichever one you need the numbers for.
Both your routing number and account number will be displayed on that page. Some banks show them right at the top; others require you to click a link that says "View Account Number" or "Show Bank Details." Copy the numbers exactly as they appear, including all leading zeros.
If you cannot find the section after a few clicks, use your bank's search function (usually a magnifying glass icon) and search for "routing number" or "account number." The bank's help system will point you to the right page.
What to do if you do not have checks or online access
Call your bank's customer service number, which is on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Have your account number, Social Security number, or other identifying information ready. Tell the representative you need your routing number and account number read aloud to you.
Customer service can provide both numbers over the phone in under five minutes. Write them down as the representative reads them, and ask them to repeat the numbers so you can verify you have them correct.
If you have lost access to your account entirely — you cannot log in and do not have your debit card — you will need to visit a branch in person with a photo ID. Bring your ID and ask a teller to write down both numbers for you.
Understanding what each number means
Your routing number is specific to your bank or credit union, not to you. If you have two accounts at the same bank, they share the same routing number. The routing number tells the Federal Reserve and other banks where to send money. It never changes unless you switch banks.
Your account number is unique to your account. No one else at your bank has your account number. It identifies which specific account the money should go into. If you open a new account at the same bank, you get a new account number.
Some banks have different routing numbers for different states or regions. If you see multiple routing numbers listed on your bank's website, use the one that matches your branch location or the one labeled for ACH transfers or direct deposits — the bank's website will specify which to use.
Verifying the numbers are correct
Before you give your routing and account numbers to anyone, double-check them. Write them down and read them back to yourself out loud. The routing number should be exactly nine digits. Your account number length varies by bank — usually between 10 and 12 digits — but it should match what you see on your checks or in your online account.
If you are setting up a direct deposit or automatic payment, many banks let you verify the numbers before the transaction goes through. Take advantage of that step. If something looks wrong, stop and call your bank to confirm.
Never share your routing and account numbers with anyone who contacts you unsolicited by phone, email, or text. Your bank will never ask you to confirm these numbers over the phone or email.
Different routing numbers for different transaction types
Most banks use the same routing number for all transactions — direct deposits, bill payments, wire transfers, and ACH transfers. However, some larger banks maintain separate routing numbers for wire transfers versus ACH transfers.
If you are setting up a direct deposit or automatic payment, your employer or the organization handling the payment will tell you which routing number to use. If your bank has multiple routing numbers, the bank's website will list them and explain which one applies to your situation. When in doubt, use the routing number printed on your checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to give my routing and account number to someone?
Your routing number is public information — it is printed on every check and listed on your bank's website. Your account number is more sensitive. Share both only with organizations you trust and that you initiated contact with, such as your employer for direct deposit or a utility company for bill payment. Never provide them to someone who called or emailed you first.
What if I see multiple routing numbers on my bank's website?
Larger banks sometimes list different routing numbers for wire transfers, ACH transfers, and international transfers. The organization asking for your routing number will tell you which type of transfer they are setting up. If they do not specify, use the routing number printed on your checks or call your bank to confirm which one to provide.
Can I use someone else's routing number by mistake?
If you give the wrong routing number, the money will go to the wrong bank. The transaction may be rejected, delayed, or sent to someone else's account. Always verify both numbers before confirming any transfer. If you make a mistake, contact the organization that initiated the transfer immediately and ask them to stop or correct it.
Do I need both numbers for every type of payment?
Yes. Direct deposits, bill payments, wire transfers, and ACH transfers all require both your routing number and account number. Some organizations may ask for only one, but providing both ensures the money reaches the correct account at the correct bank.
What if my bank is a credit union instead of a bank?
Credit unions have routing numbers just like banks do. The process is identical — check your checks, log into your credit union's online system, or call their member service line. Your routing number will be listed the same way as at a traditional bank.