What is a routing number and where can I get information about valid routing numbers and the financial institutions to which they have been assigned?
A routing number (SOMETIMES ALSO KNOWN AS AN “ABA NUMBER,” A “TRANSIT NUMBER,” OR A “ROUTING TRANSIT NUMBER”) is a nine-digit number that is assigned to a bank to identify the bank and the check-processing region in which the bank is located. Routing numbers are most commonly seen on the bottom of checks (in the lower left-hand corner for personal checks). The Federal Reserve does not assign bank routing numbers. If you have a question about a routing number on a check you have received, you should consult with your bank to determine the origin and validity of the routing number.
A routing number (also called an “ABA number,” a “routing transit number,” or a “transit number”) is a nine-digit number that identifies an institution and the region in which the institution is located. Routing numbers commonly appear in the lower left-hand corner of a personal check. Routing numbers are assigned by the Official American Bankers Association Registrar of Routing Numbers and are not assigned by the Federal Reserve. You can get information on purchasing a copy of the American Bankers Association Key to Routing Numbers from the American Bankers Association, or you can consult with your bank to determine to whom a routing number has been assigned and whether the routing number is valid.
