Credit Union Routing Number | Overview, Ways to Find, Use (2025)

Credit Union Routing Number Overview

A Credit Union Routing Number is a unique nine-digit identifier assigned by the American Bankers Association (ABA) to each credit union in the United States.

This number is crucial for various financial transactions, including direct deposits, automatic bill payments, and wire transfers.

It guides the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system in directing the flow of money to the correct credit union and specific member account.

You can typically find your credit union's routing number on the bottom left corner of your checks, on your bank statement, or on your credit union's website. Always remember to use the correct routing number to ensure smooth and successful transactions.

Ways to Find Credit Union Routing Number

Check Your Checkbook

Personal Checks

One of the easiest ways to find your routing number is to simply look at the bottom of one of your checks. The routing number is usually the first set of nine-digit numbers printed on the bottom left corner of your checks.

Deposit Slips

If you don't have a check handy, you can also find the routing number on your deposit slips. It's located in the same position as on your checks.

Visit the Credit Union's Website

Most Credit Unions post their routing numbers on their websites. You can usually find it in the footer of the website or in the 'Contact Us' section. If not, use the search bar and type 'routing number' to quickly locate it.

Use Online Banking or Mobile Apps

If you're enrolled in online banking or have downloaded your Credit Union's mobile banking app, you can often find your routing number in your account details. Check under 'Account Information' or 'Account Services.'

Contact Your Credit Union Directly

If you still need help finding the routing number, your best bet is to contact your Credit Union directly. You can call their customer service line, send an email, or visit a local branch. They can provide you with the routing number after verifying your identity.

Use the American Bankers Association (ABA) Lookup Tool

The ABA provides a lookup tool on its website where you can find your Credit Union's routing number. You'll need to enter your Credit Union's name and location, and the tool will provide you with the number.

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How to Find a Credit Union Routing Number Online

A routing number is a nine-digit code used to identify your credit union for different types of banking transactions, including wire transfers, direct deposits, and digital checks. Here's how you can find your credit union routing number online.

Use Your Credit Union's Website

Most Credit Unions make their routing numbers readily available on their official websites. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to locate it:

Visit the Website

Start by visiting the official website of your Credit Union. It's important to ensure you are on the correct site to avoid phishing scams.

Locate the Routing Number

Once on the website, search for terms like "Routing number," "ABA number," or "RTN." This information may be found in various sections such as 'Account Services,' 'Help,' 'FAQ,' or 'Contact Us.'

Online Banking

If you've signed up for online banking, finding your routing number can be just a few clicks away.

Log Into Online Banking

Start by logging into your online banking account through your Credit Union's website.

Navigate to Account Information

Once logged in, navigate to 'Account Information' or 'Account Details.' Your routing number is typically listed there.

Mobile Banking Apps

If your Credit Union offers a mobile banking app, it's another convenient way to find your routing number online.

Download and Log In

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play, and log in using your banking credentials.

Find the Routing Number

Just like with online banking, once you are logged in, look under 'Account Information' or 'Account Services' to find your routing number.

Use the American Bankers Association (ABA) Website

The ABA offers a lookup tool that can be used to find your Credit Union's routing number.

Access the ABA Website

Visit the ABA website and navigate to their routing number lookup tool.

Enter the Required Information

You'll need to enter your Credit Union's name and location, and the tool will provide you with the routing number.

Checking Credit Union Routing Numbers on Checks and Bank Statements

Your credit union routing number is printed at the bottom left corner of your checks, preceding your account number. This number can also be found on your monthly bank statements.

Use of Credit Union Routing Numbers in Different Financial Transactions

Wire Transfers

Routing numbers are crucial when sending or receiving domestic wire transfers.

Domestic Wire Transfers

If you're sending money to someone else's account at a different credit union or bank within the U.S., you will need their institution's routing number to ensure the funds reach the correct destination.

Receiving Domestic Wire Transfers

When you're on the receiving end of a domestic wire transfer, you'll need to provide your own Credit Union's routing number to the sender.

Direct Deposits

Setting up direct deposits, like paychecks or government benefits, also requires a routing number.

Setting up Direct Deposits

When setting up direct deposit with your employer or a government benefits provider, you'll need to provide your Credit Union's routing number and your account number. This allows the direct deposit to be routed correctly to your account.

Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs)

Routing numbers are also used for EFTs, including automatic bill payments and transfers between different financial institutions.

Automatic Bill Payments

When you set up automatic bill payments with a service provider, such as a utility company or a subscription service, you will need to provide your routing number so the funds can be automatically withdrawn from your account.

Inter-Institution Transfers

When you're transferring money between accounts at different financial institutions, you will need the routing number for each institution to facilitate the transfer.

Check Processing

The routing number on a check determines which Credit Union the check is drawn from.

Paying by Check

When you pay by check, the recipient's bank uses the routing number on the check to know where to request the funds from.

Depositing a Check

When you're depositing a check, your bank uses the routing number on the check to know where to request the funds from.

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Security Concerns Related to Credit Union Routing Number

Fraudulent Transactions

With the routing number and account number, fraudsters can create fake checks or initiate unauthorized electronic transactions, leading to the loss of funds from your account.

Monitor your account activity regularly. If you see any suspicious transactions, report it to your Credit Union immediately. Most Credit Unions offer fraud protection services that can recover lost funds.

Identity Theft

In combination with other personal information, your routing number can be used by criminals to steal your identity and apply for credit or initiate transactions in your name.

Protect your personal information. Don't share sensitive data like your social security number, account number, or routing number unless necessary, and ensure the recipient is trustworthy.

Phishing Scams

Fraudsters can trick you into revealing your routing and account numbers through phishing emails or fraudulent websites posing as your Credit Union.

Always verify the source before providing any information. Be wary of emails asking for your banking details, and ensure you're on the official Credit Union's website before entering your data.

Data Breaches

In the case of a data breach, your routing number, along with other personal data, could be exposed and potentially used for fraudulent activities.

Regularly update your passwords and use multifactor authentication when available. If your Credit Union reports a data breach, take steps to protect your account, such as changing your passwords and monitoring your account for unusual activity.

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Role of the ABA in Assigning Credit Union Routing Numbers

When a new credit union is established, or an existing one expands to the point of needing an additional routing number, they apply to the ABA for a new routing number. The ABA uses specific guidelines and criteria to assign these numbers.

The ABA continually maintains and updates its database of routing numbers. It assigns new numbers as needed and removes ones that are no longer in use, such as when a credit union closes. It also keeps track of changes due to mergers and acquisitions.

Conclusion

The nine-digit Credit Union Routing Number, assigned by the American Bankers Association (ABA), plays a vital role in various financial transactions. It directs the flow of funds correctly, ensuring smooth transactions.

These numbers are readily accessible via your checkbook, credit union's website, online banking, mobile apps, or ABA's lookup tool. However, it's imperative to keep in mind that they are sensitive data that could be misused in fraudulent activities or identity theft.

Hence, it's crucial to regularly monitor your accounts, protect your personal data, and remain vigilant against phishing scams and data breaches.

When it comes to changes in these routing numbers, trust in the ABA's systematic management includes assigning, updating, and tracking changes due to credit union closures or mergers.

To summarize, a Credit Union Routing Number is an integral part of banking operations that requires diligent handling.

Credit Union Routing Number FAQs

A Credit Union Routing Number is a unique nine-digit code assigned by the American Bankers Association (ABA) to each credit union in the United States. It's used for different types of banking transactions, including wire transfers, direct deposits, and digital checks.

You can find your Credit Union Routing Number at the bottom left corner of your checks, on your bank statement, on your credit union's website, via online or mobile banking, or by using the American Bankers Association's lookup tool.

A Credit Union Routing Number directs the flow of money in various financial transactions. These include wire transfers, direct deposits, electronic funds transfers (EFTs), and check processing. The routing number ensures that the funds reach the correct credit union and specific member account.

The security concerns related to Credit Union Routing Numbers include fraudulent transactions, identity theft, phishing scams, and data breaches. Therefore, it's important to protect your routing number and monitor your account regularly for any suspicious activity.

The ABA assigns Credit Union Routing Numbers when a new credit union is established or an existing one needs an additional number. It continually maintains and updates its database of routing numbers, assigning new ones as required and removing ones that are no longer in use, such as when a credit union closes. It also tracks changes due to credit union mergers or acquisitions.

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About the Author

True Tamplin, BSc, CEPF®

True Tamplin is a published author, public speaker, CEO of UpDigital, and founder of Finance Strategists.

True is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), author of The Handy Financial Ratios Guide, a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing, contributes to his financial education site, Finance Strategists, and has spoken to various financial communities such as the CFA Institute, as well as university students like his Alma mater, Biola University, where he received a bachelor of science in business and data analytics.

To learn more about True, visit his personal website or view his author profiles on Amazon, Nasdaq and Forbes.

Credit Union Routing Number | Overview, Ways to Find, Use (2025)

FAQs

What information can you get from routing and account number? ›

The routing number identifies the bank, while the account number identifies the account to be debited or credited within that bank. Account and routing numbers work together to ensure that financial transactions and money transfers get processed correctly.

What routing number should I use? ›

Wells Fargo Bank routing numbers
StateRouting Number
California121042882
Colorado102000076
Connecticut021101108
Delaware031100869
48 more rows
Apr 29, 2024

How do you explain a routing number? ›

What is a routing number? A routing number is a nine-digit code used by financial institutions to identify other financial institutions. When combined with your account number, it allows institutions to locate your individual account.

Can you find a bank name by routing number? ›

How to Find a Bank with a Routing Number (ABA Search) If you wish to look up a bank by its routing number, you can search for it on the ABA's website. Additionally, you can also search for routing numbers through their website by inputting the bank's name and address.

Can I transfer money to Cash App using routing and account number? ›

You can also deposit paychecks, tax returns, and more to your Cash App balance using your bank account and routing number. You can receive up to $25,000 per direct deposit, and up to $50,000 in a 24-hour period.

What app can I send money with routing and account number instantly? ›

PayPal: PayPal offers instant transfer services that allow users to send funds to friends, family, or merchants using routing and account numbers. While PayPal may require verification for certain transactions or account features, users can still conduct instant transfers without extensive verification in many cases.

How to withdraw money with account number and routing number? ›

My answer is…go into the bank, fill out a paper withdrawal slip, provide your account number, the amount of cash that you want (making sure the withdrawal amount isn't MORE than what your account has in funds), sign the withdrawal slip, then take that to bank cashier or bank representative.

What can I buy with my account and routing number? ›

Online Stores That Accept Routing and Account Numbers for Payment
  • Amazon.
  • Walmart.
  • Microsoft Store.
  • Overstock.com.
  • Best Buy.
  • Target.
  • Important Considerations:
  • Choosing the Right Option:
Feb 24, 2024

Which routing number to use for ACH? ›

You can find your ACH routing number by: Searching online for “ACH routing number” and your bank's name. Logging in to your online banking platform. Looking in your checkbook (it's typically located next to your account number)

How do you explain routing? ›

Routing is the process of path selection in any network. A computer network is made of many machines, called nodes, and paths or links that connect those nodes. Communication between two nodes in an interconnected network can take place through many different paths.

How do you decode a routing number? ›

Breaking It Down: What Your Routing Number Really Stands For

The first four digits are the Federal Reserve routing symbol, the next four digits are the American Bankers Association institution identifier (aka a code that represents your specific bank or credit union) and the final digit is the check digit.

Is routing number a secret? ›

Although a routing number is essentially public information, it's important to safeguard both your account number and routing number in order to protect your accounts. If a fraudster knows your routing number they can easily tell which financial institution your funds are at, putting you at risk of phishing attempts.

Can you google a routing number? ›

Often, banks have routing number information published online. Google your bank's name plus the words "routing number." If you can't find it by looking directly at your bank's website, try Google. You might be surprised at how often you can find something with Google that you can't find easily at a company site.

What is a fractional routing number lookup? ›

The fractional routing number, or routing symbol on a check, is a small numerical representation location on the top portion of some paper checks. It has a numerator depicting where the bank is located and a denominator representing the federal reserve bank that would clear the check.

What is a wire routing number used for? ›

What is a Routing Number? A routing number is a unique, nine-digit number that functions as an address for your bank. It is used for electronic transactions such as funds transfers, direct deposits, digital checks, and bill payments.

What can someone do with my routing and account number? ›

If someone gains access to your bank account and routing numbers, they can use the information to fraudulently withdraw or transfer money from your account. They can also create fake checks, claim your tax return or commit other forms of financial fraud.

Can I buy stuff with my account number and routing number? ›

To pay with routing and account numbers, you typically have a few options: Online Payment Platforms: Some online payment platforms, such as PayPal and Venmo, allow you to link your bank account using your routing and account numbers. Once linked, you can use these platforms to make payments to merchants or individuals.

Can someone withdraw money with my account number and sort code? ›

Withdrawals and Account Security: Merely having access to your account number and sort code is not sufficient for someone to withdraw money from your bank account. To complete a withdrawal, additional information and security measures are typically required.

Can someone check my bank account balance with my account number? ›

Most banks no longer allow others to check or know your bank account balance. However, some banks provide the account balance details when people simply call and request it. For instance, anyone knowing your account information can call the bank to verify the fund on a cheque.

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