Your routing number is printed on the bottom left of every check you receive from your bank
The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank or credit union. On a check, it appears as the first set of numbers on the bottom left edge, before your account number. The format looks like this: the routing number comes first, then your account number, then the check number on the far right.
If you do not have checks in front of you, your routing number is also available through your bank's website, your mobile app, or by calling customer service. Each bank and credit union has one routing number (or sometimes a few, depending on the branch or region), so the number stays the same whether you are setting up direct deposit, making a wire transfer, or arranging an automatic payment.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of any check, printed as the first nine-digit sequence before your account number.
- You can also find your routing number by logging into your bank's website or mobile app, usually in the account details or settings section.
- Calling your bank's customer service line will give you the routing number immediately if you do not have a check or online access.
- The routing number is the same for all accounts at your bank; only your account number changes between different checking or savings accounts.
Finding it on a physical check
Look at the bottom edge of any check. You will see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group, on the far left, is your routing number. It is always nine digits long. The second group is your account number (which varies in length). The third group, on the far right, is the check number.
The routing number is printed in a special magnetic ink that allows bank machines to read it automatically. You do not need to understand how that works — you just need to know it is the first set of numbers at the bottom, and it belongs to your bank, not to you personally.
Looking it up online or through your bank's app
Log into your bank's website or open the mobile app. Most banks display your routing number in the account details, account information, or settings section. Some banks put it right on the dashboard when you log in; others require you to click into a specific account to see it.
If you cannot find it online, look for a link labeled "Account Details," "Account Information," "Routing Number," or "Wire Transfer Information." The routing number is often listed alongside your account number. If the website does not show it, call customer service — they can read it to you in under a minute.
Calling your bank directly
Pick up the phone and call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Tell the representative you need your routing number. They will ask you to verify your identity (usually your account number and Social Security number or date of birth) and then read the nine-digit routing number to you.
This is the fastest method if you are in a hurry and do not have a check in front of you. The call usually takes less than five minutes. Write the number down as they read it so you do not have to call back.
Understanding routing numbers for different account types
Your checking account and savings account at the same bank share the same routing number. The routing number identifies the bank; your account number identifies which specific account you are using. So if you have both a checking and a savings account at the same institution, you use the same routing number for both, but different account numbers.
If you bank at multiple institutions, each one has its own routing number. Credit unions also have routing numbers, and they work the same way as bank routing numbers. The routing number never changes for your account — it stays the same for as long as you keep that account open at that bank.
What to do if you cannot locate your routing number
If you have lost your checks, do not have online access, and cannot reach customer service by phone, visit your bank in person. Bring a photo ID and your debit card. A teller can write down your routing number for you in seconds. This is a standard request and banks handle it all the time.
You can also search online for your bank's routing number using the bank's name and your state. The Federal Reserve maintains a routing number database, and many third-party sites (like your bank's own website or financial service sites) allow you to search by bank name and location. However, calling or visiting in person is more reliable because it confirms you have the correct number for your specific branch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same as my account number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank; your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. The routing number is nine digits and appears first on a check. Your account number is longer and appears second. You need both for wire transfers and direct deposit setup.
Can I use someone else's routing number to send them money?
Yes, if you are sending money to their account at the same bank as yours. You would use their routing number and their account number. However, for transfers between different banks, you typically use the receiving bank's routing number and the recipient's account number at that bank.
Do I need my routing number to use my debit card?
No. Your debit card works with just your card number, expiration date, and CVV. You only need your routing number when setting up direct deposit, making wire transfers, paying bills by bank account, or arranging automatic payments from your checking account.
What if my bank merged with another bank?
Your routing number may change after a merger. Contact your bank to confirm whether your routing number has changed. If it has, update any automatic payments or direct deposit arrangements with your new routing number to avoid missed payments or delayed deposits.
Can someone access my account with just my routing number?
No. Your routing number alone is not enough to access or withdraw from your account. Someone would also need your account number, and even then, most transactions require additional verification like a PIN, password, or signature. Your routing number is safe to share.