M&T Bank's routing number is 021000021

M&T Bank uses routing number 021000021 for all domestic wire transfers and ACH transactions. This nine-digit code tells the Federal Reserve and other banks where your money needs to go when someone sends you a payment or when you send money out of your M&T account.

The routing number is the same whether you bank at an M&T branch in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Virginia, West Virginia, or Washington D.C. You do not need a different number for different states or account types — one routing number covers all M&T checking and savings accounts for domestic transfers.

If you are setting up direct deposit, paying bills through another bank's system, or receiving a wire transfer, you will need this number. It works alongside your account number, which is unique to you and appears on the bottom left of your checks.

Key Takeaways

  • M&T Bank's routing number 021000021 is used for all ACH transfers, direct deposits, and wire transfers from any M&T account.
  • The routing number stays the same regardless of which state your M&T branch is located in or what type of account you hold.
  • You can find your routing number on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal, or by calling M&T customer service.
  • Wire transfers using this routing number typically arrive within one business day, while ACH transfers take one to three business days.

Where to find your routing number if you do not have a check

If you do not have a checkbook handy, log into your M&T online banking account or mobile app. The routing number appears in the account details section, usually labeled "Routing Number" or "ABA Number." You can also view it on statements you have already received.

Call M&T customer service at 1-800-724-2440 if you cannot access your online account. A representative can confirm the routing number over the phone and answer questions about how to use it for your specific transaction.

The difference between routing number and account number

Your routing number identifies M&T Bank itself — it tells the banking system which bank to send money to. Your account number identifies your specific account within M&T. Both are required for most transfers.

On a check, the routing number appears first (bottom left), followed by your account number (bottom center). When you set up direct deposit at work or arrange a bill payment through another bank, you will enter both numbers. Using only the routing number without an account number will not complete the transfer.

How routing numbers work in wire transfers versus ACH payments

A wire transfer uses the routing number to send money directly from one bank to another, usually within one business day. Wire transfers are faster but typically cost $15 to $30 and cannot be reversed once sent. You need the routing number, account number, and the recipient's name to initiate a wire.

An ACH transfer (Automated Clearing House) also uses the routing number but moves money through a batch system that takes one to three business days. ACH transfers are usually free or cost $1 to $3. Many employers use ACH for direct deposit, and many bill-pay systems use ACH to move money from your account to creditors.

Both methods require the same routing number, but the speed and cost differ. If you need money to arrive today or tomorrow, wire transfer is the only option. If you can wait a few days, ACH is cheaper.

What happens if you use the wrong routing number

If you enter an incorrect routing number, the money may go to a different bank or be rejected entirely. The sending bank will usually catch the error and return the funds to the sender within a few business days, but the delay can cause problems if you were counting on the money arriving on time.

Always double-check the routing number before confirming a transfer, especially for large amounts or time-sensitive payments. If you are unsure, call M&T or the sending institution to verify before proceeding.

Using the routing number for direct deposit and bill pay

When you set up direct deposit at your employer, you will provide both the M&T routing number and your account number. The employer's payroll system uses these to deposit your paycheck directly into your account on payday, usually without any delay or fee.

For bill pay through another bank or credit card company, enter the routing number and your M&T account number as the source account. The payment processor will pull money from your M&T account on the date you specify. Most bill-pay systems process payments within one to three business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the M&T routing number the same for savings and checking accounts?

Yes. Routing number 021000021 applies to all M&T deposit accounts, whether checking, savings, or money market. The account number is what distinguishes one account from another within your M&T profile.

Can I use the routing number to receive money from outside the United States?

International wire transfers require additional information beyond the routing number, such as your SWIFT code or IBAN. Contact M&T directly to get the correct codes for receiving money from abroad, as the process differs from domestic transfers.

What if my check shows a different routing number?

Older M&T checks or checks from acquired banks may show a different routing number. Call M&T customer service to confirm which routing number to use for your account. Using an outdated number may delay your transfer.

Do I need the routing number to transfer money between my own M&T accounts?

No. Transfers between your own M&T accounts within online banking do not require a routing number. You only need the routing number when sending money to or receiving money from accounts at other banks.