ACH vs Wire Routing Number: What's the Difference and Which to Use?

Forms ask for "your routing number," but your bank's website lists an ACH routing number, a wire routing number and maybe an ABA number too. Using the wrong one can delay a paycheck or bounce a transfer. Here's what each number is and which one to use.

Quick answer: use the ACH routing number for direct deposit, automatic bill payments and regular bank transfers — at most banks it's the same number printed on your checks. Use the wire routing number only for wire transfers. Some banks use one number for both; others have separate ones.

What is a routing number?

A routing number — also called an ABA routing number or routing transit number — is a 9-digit code that identifies a bank or credit union in the United States. It was created by the American Bankers Association, which is where "ABA" comes from. Your routing number tells the payment system which bank to send money to; your account number tells the bank which account.

You can find it at the bottom left of your checks — see where the routing number is on a check — or in your banking app.

ACH vs wire routing number

ACH routing number

ACH (Automated Clearing House) is the network behind most everyday electronic payments in the US. Use the ACH routing number for:

• direct deposit of paychecks and benefits,
• automatic bill payments and autopay,
• transfers between your own accounts at different banks,
• payment apps and platforms that link to your bank account.

Wire routing number

Wire transfers are a separate system for fast, usually larger payments — like a home closing or a car purchase. Some banks route incoming wires through a different number, so use the wire routing number only when you're sending or receiving a wire. International wires also need a SWIFT/BIC code.

Is the ACH routing number the same as the routing number on my check?

At most banks, yes — the routing number printed on your checks is the one to use for direct deposit and ACH payments. But some banks list separate numbers for paper checks, electronic payments and wires, and large banks often use different numbers by state. When in doubt, check your banking app or your bank's website for the number labeled "ACH" or "direct deposit."

Which routing number to use for direct deposit

• Use the ACH / direct deposit routing number.
• If your bank lists only one routing number, use that.
• If the number on your check and the one in your app differ, use the one in your app labeled for direct deposit — or call your bank.
• Never use a wire routing number for direct deposit unless your bank says they're the same.

Setting up direct deposit? See how to fill in a direct deposit authorization form, and our list of US banks and credit unions.

What happens if you use the wrong routing number?

Usually the payment is rejected and returned, which delays it by days. In rare cases money can go to the wrong account and take time to recover. Double-check the routing number and account number before you submit any form.

Share both numbers without typos

Many employers ask for a voided check because it shows the exact routing and account number your bank prints. If you don't have checks, you can generate a voided check online with VoidFast, or use a bank verification letter.

Frequently asked questions

What is an ACH routing number?

The 9-digit routing number your bank uses for ACH payments — direct deposit, autopay and bank-to-bank transfers. At most banks it's the number printed on your checks.

Is the ABA routing number the same as the ACH routing number?

Often, yes. "ABA routing number" is the general name for a US routing number. Some banks use the same ABA number for ACH and wires; others publish separate ones.

Can I use the wire routing number for direct deposit?

Only if your bank says the wire and ACH numbers are the same. Otherwise use the ACH or direct deposit routing number.

Why does my bank have different routing numbers?

Large banks were often formed by mergers and may keep different routing numbers by state, region or payment type.

How do I find my ACH routing number?

Check your banking app or online banking under account details, look at the bottom of your checks, or find the number labeled "ACH" or "direct deposit" on your bank's website.