Routing Number Validator
Instantly verify typical US Bank Routing Numbers (ABA) using the official checksum algorithm.
Format: 9 Digits0/9
Where to Find Your Routing Number
YOUR BANK NAME
On a Check
It is usually the first 9-digit number at the bottom left of your personal check, enclosed by the `|:` symbol.
Online Banking
Log in to your bank's app or website. Look for "Account Details" or "Direct Deposit" information.
What is a Routing Number?
A routing number (also known as an ABA Routing Number or RTN) is a unique 9-digit code assigned to financial institutions in the United States.
It serves as an address for your bank, allowing money to be moved accurately between institutions. Just like a zip code ensures mail gets to the right city, a routing number ensures funds get to the right bank.
When Do You Need It?
ACH Routing Number vs. Wire Routing Number
Using the wrong number can delay your transfer or cause it to be rejected.
| Feature | ACH / Direct Deposit | Wire Transfer |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 1-3 Business Days | Same Day (Real-time) |
| Cost | Free or Low Cost | $15 - $50 Fee |
| Use Case | Paychecks, Bill Pay | Buying a House, Large Sums |
| Reversible? | Yes (in some cases) | No (Final) |
How to Manually Validate a Routing Number
Can't access our tool? You can validate a US routing number manually using the Luhn Algorithm (specifically, the mod 10 algorithm used for ABA numbers).
The Formula: 3-7-1-3-7-1-3-7-1
- Take the first 8 digits of your routing number.
- Multiply each digit by the pattern: 3, 7, 1, 3, 7, 1, 3, 7.
- Sum up all the results.
- Round the sum up to the nearest multiple of 10.
- Subtract your original sum from that multiple of 10.
- The result must equal the 9th digit (the checksum).
Decoding the 9 Digits (MICR Format)
Federal Reserve Symbol
First 4 digits. Identifies the Federal Reserve district and institution type.
Institution ID
Next 4 digits. The specific bank or credit union identifier within that district.
Check Digit
Last digit. Calculated using the checksum formula to verify validity.
Federal Reserve Prefixes & Meanings
The first two digits tell you the region and type of institution.
(Add 20 for Thrift/Credit Unions, Add 60 for Electronic/ETIs)
| Reserve Bank (District) | Primary (01-12) | Thrift/CU (+20) | Electronic (+60) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | 01 | 21 | 61 |
| New York | 02 | 22 | 62 |
| Philadelphia | 03 | 23 | 63 |
| Cleveland | 04 | 24 | 64 |
| Richmond | 05 | 25 | 65 |
| Atlanta | 06 | 26 | 66 |
| Chicago | 07 | 27 | 67 |
| St. Louis | 08 | 28 | 68 |
| Minneapolis | 09 | 29 | 69 |
| Kansas City | 10 | 30 | 70 |
| Dallas | 11 | 31 | 71 |
| San Francisco | 12 | 32 | 72 |
Warning: Protect Your Routing Number
While routing numbers are public (they identify the bank, not you), they are sensitive when combined with your Account Number. Never share your Account Number unless you trust the recipient completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many digits is a routing number?
A US ABA routing number is always exactly 9 digits long.
Are ACH and Wire routing numbers the same?
Not always. Some large banks (like Chase or Bank of America) use different routing numbers for electronic (ACH) transfers versus paper wire transfers. Always verify with your bank.
What do the first two digits mean?
The first two digits indicate the Federal Reserve District where the bank was originally located (01-12).
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