What Is a Bank Routing Number & How to Find It

Have you ever needed to move money, pay a bill, or set up a direct deposit but realized you couldn’t find your bank routing number?

This nine-digit code is essential for processing financial transactions, yet many people are unsure how to locate it quickly, or even understand what it’s for.

Let’s clear that up.

What is a Bank Routing Number?

A bank routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies the financial institution associated with your bank account. Often called the American Bankers Association (ABA) routing number or used in Automated Clearing House (ACH) transactions, it ensures that funds are routed correctly between banks during transactions.

What is a bank routing number used for?
It ensures money is correctly routed between banks for activities like direct deposits, bill payments, and wire transfers.

These numbers originated to streamline paper check processing and remain essential for digital and electronic payments today.

Where is the Routing Number on a Check?

If you’re holding a physical check, you can find your routing number at the bottom-left corner. It’s part of a sequence that also includes your account and check number:

• Routing Number: This nine-digit code identifies your bank.

• Account Number: Located next, this identifies your specific bank account.

• Check Number: Appears on the far right for tracking purposes.

Where is the routing number on a check for automated processing?
Routing numbers are printed using magnetic ink character recognition (MICR). This format allows banks to process checks efficiently using automated systems.

Note: Routing numbers used for wire transfers may differ from those used for ACH and direct deposits. Always verify with your bank before making a transaction.

How to Find Your Routing Number Without a Check

If you don’t have checks, don’t worry. Here are four easy alternatives:

• Bank Website: Most list routing numbers on their public pages.

• Online Banking: Log into your app or online portal—routing numbers are usually found under account details.

• Customer Service: A quick call to your bank can confirm your routing number.

• ABA Lookup Tool: The American Bankers Association offers an official routing number search tool.

Some banks may use different routing numbers by state or branch, so it’s always best to confirm.

ABA vs. ACH Routing Numbers

You may hear the terms ABA and ACH routing numbers used interchangeably, but they’re not always the same.

• ABA Routing Numbers are typically associated with paper checks and physical banking transactions.

• ACH Routing Numbers are used for electronic transactions, like payroll or bill pay.

Do banks use the same routing number for ACH and ABA?
Sometimes. But don’t assume—always verify with your bank to avoid delays.

ACH Transfers vs. Wire Transfers

Routing numbers are essential for both ACH and wire transfers, though they serve different purposes:

• ACH Transfers

  • Best for routine transactions like utility bills or paychecks

  • Take 1–3 business days

  • Often free or very low cost

• Wire Transfers

  • Ideal for urgent, high-value payments

  • Processed within hours (domestic) or 1–5 days (international)

  • More secure, but typically cost $15–$65

Finding Your Routing Number for International Transfers

For international payments, U.S. routing numbers aren’t used. Instead, you'll need:

• SWIFT Codes: These identify a specific financial institution in the transaction.

• IBANs (International Bank Account Numbers): Standardized to identify the recipient’s account abroad.

These identifiers are essential to ensure your international funds arrive safely and without delay.

Why Do You Need a Routing Number?

You’ll need your routing number to complete a wide variety of everyday banking activities:

• Direct Deposits: Set up payroll or IRS refunds.

• Electronic Payments: Pay recurring bills.

• Wire Transfers: Move funds securely, domestically or internationally.

• Linking to Apps: Platforms like PayPal or Venmo need routing and account numbers.

How Long is a Routing Number?

A routing number is always nine digits long, and each digit has a purpose:

• The Federal Reserve Routing Symbol helps determine the processing Federal Reserve Bank.

• The Bank’s Identifier pinpoints your institution.

• The final digit is a check digit used for error detection during automated processing.

This standardized format ensures transactions are reliable and accurate.

Why is it Important to Use the Correct Routing Number?

Simple: using the wrong routing number can fail a transaction or send your money to the wrong place.

To avoid mistakes:

• Confirm the routing number for your specific bank branch.

• Verify whether you need the number for ACH or wire transfers, as they may differ.

Why Bank with SBI California?

At State Bank of India (California), we simplify banking, including tasks like locating your routing number or making wire transfers.

We offer:

• Effortless Banking: Quickly find routing numbers and set up payments or deposits.

• Reliable Transactions: We prioritize accuracy in every transfer.

• Broad Access: Our tools help with everything from setting up savings accounts to making international wire transfers.

Whether you're managing daily finances or making large cross-border transactions, SBIC is your trusted partner.

Wrapping Up

Understanding and correctly using your bank’s routing number ensures smooth financial transactions, whether managing a savings account, setting up direct deposits, or making international transfers. 

When in doubt, contact your bank to verify the details. 

Ready to simplify your finances? Explore how to open a bank account with us today and experience seamless banking tailored to your needs.