Money
Where to find your routing and account numbers
They're on the bottom of a paper check and in your bank's app.
Every bank account has two numbers that matter: a routing number, which identifies the bank, and an account number, which identifies your account. Your family uses them to find the account and set up transfers.
On a paper check
They're along the bottom edge. The first group, a 9-digit number, is the routing number. The next group is the account number. The last, shorter group is the check number.
Without checks
- Your bank's app or website, usually under account details
- A monthly paper or PDF statement
- A direct deposit form from your bank
- Calling the number on the back of your debit card
Good to know
- Some banks use a different routing number for wire transfers. If there's one listed, it's worth writing both down.
- The account number on your debit card is not your bank account number. The card has its own number.
- Routing numbers are public. Any bank's routing number can be looked up on its website.
Good to know
In the binder, many people write just the bank name, the type of account and the last four digits. Banks can usually find a deceased customer's accounts without the full account number, so it can stay out of sight.