Bank routing number lookup directory

Make every wire transfer count. Use the right routing number to avoid delays, disruptions, and failed payments.

Find a routing number

What is a routing number?

A routing number is a unique nine-digit identifier used in the United States to pinpoint the specific financial institution involved in a transaction. Issued by the American Bankers Association (ABA), this number serves as a critical component of the U.S. banking infrastructure, guiding the accurate transfer of funds between banks.

Think of it as a bank's address—used to direct wire transfers, direct deposits, electronic bill payments, and other automated transactions to the right place. Whether you're receiving a salary, making a payment, or sending money across banks, the routing number ensures each transaction reaches the correct institution without delays or errors.

By helping route payments efficiently and securely, routing numbers play a key role in maintaining the reliability of the banking network.

Why routing numbers matter?

Avoid payment errors and fraud risks

Payments are sent to correct financial institutions, eliminating delays, errors, and even fraudulent activities.

Track transaction flow with precision

With these unique nine-digit numbers, banks and other financial institutions can identify where a transaction originated and where it should be delivered.

Ensure reliable bank transfers and deposits

Entering the correct identifiers can make your every transaction, whether it’s a bank transfer, direct deposit, or bill payment, go smoothly and securely.

How to find a routing number on a cheque?

To find a routing number on a cheque, look at the bottom-left corner. The first set of nine digits printed on the lower left-hand side of a check is the routing number. This number is followed by the account number and, in some cases, the check number. The routing number is encoded with a magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) font, making it easy for automated systems to read and process.

How to find your routing number online?

There are several easy ways to locate your routing number:

Online banking

Log in to your bank's online banking platform or mobile app. You'll usually find the routing number under account details or information.

Bank's official website

Visit the bank's website and check sections like FAQs, Help, or Account Services — routing numbers are often listed there.

Customer support

If you can't locate it online, contact your bank's customer service through phone, chat, or email for confirmation.

Search online (with caution)

You can search for your bank's name followed by “routing number,” but always cross-check with the bank's official website or support team to ensure accuracy.

Is every bank’s routing number the same?

No, routing numbers are not the same for every bank. Each financial institution is assigned a unique routing number — or multiple, in the case of larger banks. For example, banks with branches across different states often have separate routing numbers for each region, based on where the account was opened. This system ensures that financial transactions are accurately directed to the correct bank and specific branch.

Is the routing number the same for all accounts at a bank?

No. A bank may have different routing numbers based on the state where the account was opened or the type of transaction being made. It is always best to check the specific routing number for your account type and location.

What is the difference between ABA and ACH routing numbers?

The difference between an ABA routing number and an ACH routing code lies in how they're used for payment processing.

An ABA routing number, also known as a routing transit number (RTN), is typically used for paper-based transactions like processing checks and identifying the specific bank branch involved.
On the other hand, an ACH routing code is used for electronic transfers such as direct deposit and bill payments.

Some financial institutions use a single routing number for all types of transactions, while others may assign separate codes for ACH payments and domestic wire transfers to streamline how transactions are routed and settled.