How Do I find My Bank Account Number and Routing Number?
There are times when you may need to provide your bank account number and routing number to another party. This information can be used to make purchases online, as well as to pay bills. Submitting this information will allow the company to use these numbers to initiate an automatic draft. This is similar to writing a check, but without the hassle of filling out and physically mailing the check itself.
The easiest way to locate this information is to look on current checks that you already have. There will be three sets of numbers listed along the bottom. These are the routing number, bank account number, and check number. The routing number always comes first, and always consists of nine numbers. The bank account number will be second, followed by the check number. Each set of numbers will be separated by a symbol, which makes it easy to tell them apart.
Each of these sets of numbers serves a specific purpose. The routing number is used to determine your exact bank company and location. Everyone that uses that specific bank will have the same routing number. The bank account number is linked specifically to your account. Every bank customer will have a different bank account number. The check number is simply used to issue and track specific payments.
It is important to note that the account and routing numbers that are deposit slips may not match the numbers that are on your checks. For this reason, never refer to a deposit slip when searching for this information. Should you not use checks, call or visit your local bank to obtain this information. You will need to verify your identity in order to receive this information which is done for security purposes. Those that use online banking should also be able to obtain this nformation by logging into their account.
What Is A Bank Account Number Used For?
Savings accounts that are with the same bank will have the same routing number. However the bank account number will be completely different. Should you wish to allow deposits or debits from your savings account, be sure to use this bank account number instead. Since a savings account number is not located on your checks, a visit or call to the bank may be necessary in order to obtain this information. Your bank account number and routing number are not only used to make payments. They are also needed in order to receive money. Setting up direct deposit with your employer will require that you provide this information. Entrepreneurs may also need to provide this information in order to initiate direct deposits from businesses that will be providing them with payments.
These numbers are in place to provide you with additional layers of account security. Therefore, it is important that your bank account number only be provided to those that you deem reputable. This information can be used for the purpose of identity theft. Keep this in mind before giving this information out. When entering the information online, check to see if the website has security measures such as encryption in place.