Your routing number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it on your bank's website or by calling customer service
The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies which bank or credit union holds your account. It tells the financial system where to send money when you receive a transfer, direct deposit, or payment. You need it for things like setting up direct deposit for tax refunds, paying bills electronically, or receiving wire transfers.
You have three reliable ways to find it: look at a check you have on hand, log into your bank's website or app, or call your bank's customer service line. Each method takes less than five minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left corner of any check from your account, printed as the first set of nine digits.
- Your bank's website or mobile app displays your routing number in the account details or settings section, usually under "Account Information."
- Calling your bank's customer service number gets you the routing number in seconds, and the number is on your debit card or bank statements.
- The routing number is specific to your bank and branch location, so it stays the same even if you move or change your account type.
- Do not confuse your routing number with your account number — routing identifies the bank, account number identifies your specific account.
Finding it on a check
Look at the bottom left corner of any check from your account. You will see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group of nine digits is your routing number. The second group is your account number. The third group is the check number.
This is the fastest method if you have a checkbook at home. If you have not ordered checks yet or do not use them, move to one of the other methods.
Finding it on your bank's website or app
Log into your bank's online banking portal or mobile app using your username and password. Look for a section labeled "Account Information," "Account Details," or "Settings." Your routing number is usually displayed alongside your account number.
The exact location varies by bank. Some banks put it on the main dashboard. Others require you to click into a specific account to see it. If you cannot find it after a quick search, use the search function within the app or website and type "routing number."
Calling your bank directly
Find the customer service number on the back of your debit card, on your most recent bank statement, or on your bank's website. Call and tell the representative you need your routing number. They will give it to you immediately and may also confirm your account number if you ask.
This method works even if you do not have checks or access to online banking. Keep a pen and paper ready so you can write down the number.
Understanding routing number format and what it means
A routing number is always nine digits. The first four digits identify the Federal Reserve district where your bank is located. The next four digits identify your specific bank or credit union. The last digit is a check digit used to verify the number is correct.
Your routing number is tied to your bank and the branch location where you opened the account. If you move to a different state or switch branches, your routing number typically stays the same. If you change banks entirely, you will have a different routing number.
Routing number versus account number
These two numbers work together but mean different things. Your routing number tells the financial system which bank to send money to. Your account number tells the bank which specific account within that bank should receive the money. You need both for direct deposits, wire transfers, and bill payments.
Think of it this way: the routing number is like the address of a post office, and the account number is like your mailbox number inside that post office. The post office (routing number) has to exist first, and then your mailbox (account number) has to be in the right place.
What to do if you cannot find your routing number
If you have tried checking your checks, your bank's website, and calling customer service without success, contact your bank in person at a branch location. Bring a photo ID. A teller can look up your routing number in seconds and write it down for you.
You can also search online using your bank's name plus "routing number," but verify the result by calling your bank to confirm it is correct. Scammers sometimes post fake routing numbers online, so always double-check with your bank before using a number you found through a search.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a different routing number for each account I have at the same bank?
No. All accounts at the same bank and branch location share the same routing number. You only need one routing number per bank, even if you have a checking account, savings account, and money market account there.
Can my routing number change?
Rarely. Your routing number stays the same unless your bank merges with another bank, closes your branch, or reorganizes its structure. If this happens, your bank will notify you and provide a new routing number. For most people, the routing number they have today will be the same one they use for years.
Is it safe to give my routing number to someone?
Yes, your routing number is safe to share. It is printed on every check you write and is public information. However, never share your account number or PIN with anyone. Someone with only your routing number cannot access your account or withdraw money.
What if the routing number on my checks is different from the one on my bank's website?
This can happen if your bank recently merged, reorganized, or if your checks are old. Call your bank to confirm which number is current. Use the number your bank confirms over the phone, not the one on old checks.
Do credit unions have routing numbers?
Yes. Credit unions use routing numbers the same way banks do. You can find your credit union's routing number using the same methods: checks, your credit union's website, or by calling their member service line.