 TITLE: Routing Number vs. Account Number: What’s the Difference? CONTENT: How to Find Your Routing and Account Numbers\n--------------------------------------------\nYou can find your account and routing numbers at the bottom left-hand side of paper checks that are tied to your checking account, by logging in to your online banking account or by asking a representative of the financial institution.\nSince your financial institution's routing number isn't unique to your account, you may be able to simply find it online—just make sure the website you use is the one owned by your bank or credit union. Other websites may gather routing number information for several financial institutions to make things more convenient, but it's best to get the number directly from the institution.\nThe numbers on the bottom of each of your checks are printed in magnetic ink using what's called magnetic ink character recognition (MICR). The MICR line makes it easier for banks and credit unions to process checks quickly.\nWhen you are ready to provide your routing and account numbers for a bank-related transaction, double-check your sources to make sure you get the numbers exactly correct. If you're off by even a single digit, the transaction won't complete. In some cases, you may be required to enter your account number twice to verify the correct information, which can help avoid potential errors. END