Your account and routing numbers appear at the bottom of every Wells Fargo check you receive
When you look at a Wells Fargo check, three sets of numbers run along the bottom in magnetic ink. From left to right, you see the routing number (nine digits), then your account number (up to 17 digits), then the check number. The routing number identifies which Wells Fargo branch or processing center handles your account. Your account number is unique to you and tells the bank which specific account to pull money from. You need both numbers together to set up direct deposits, automatic payments, or wire transfers.
If you do not have a physical check in front of you, you can find these same numbers through your Wells Fargo online account, by calling customer service, or by visiting a branch in person. Each method takes only a few minutes.
Key Takeaways
- The routing number (nine digits) and account number (up to 17 digits) both print at the bottom of your Wells Fargo check in order from left to right.
- Wells Fargo's routing number varies by state and branch type, so always use the number from your own check rather than looking up a general number online.
- You can retrieve both numbers from your Wells Fargo online account under account details, or by calling 1-800-869-3557.
- Never share your account number with anyone you do not trust, but the routing number is safe to give out for legitimate transactions.
Reading the numbers at the bottom of your check
Hold your check horizontally and look at the bottom left corner. The first group of nine digits printed in magnetic ink is your routing number. This number routes your check to the correct Wells Fargo processing center based on where your account is held. when ready to the right of the routing number, you will see a longer string of digits — that is your account number. The account number can be anywhere from 10 to 17 digits depending on your account type.
On the far right of these three number groups sits the check number, which is much shorter and straightforward identifies that individual check. The check number also appears in the top right corner of the check in regular print, so it is straightforward to spot twice.
The magnetic ink at the bottom is designed to be read by bank machines, which is why the numbers look slightly different from the printed check number in the corner. If your check is damaged or the ink is smudged, you may have trouble reading these numbers — in that case, use one of the other methods below to find them.
Finding your numbers through Wells Fargo Online
Log into your Wells Fargo account at wellsfargo.com using your username and password. Once you are signed in, look for the account you need information for and click on it. Select "Account Details" or "Account Information" — the exact wording depends on which version of the website you see, but it is always near the top of the account page.
Your routing number and account number will both display on this page. You can copy them directly from here, take a screenshot, or write them down. This method works even if you have never ordered checks or do not have any on hand. If you use Wells Fargo's mobile app instead of the website, the same information appears under the account details section.
Calling Wells Fargo customer service for your numbers
Call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 and select the option for account information. A representative will ask you to verify your identity by providing your Social Security number, date of birth, or other security information. Once verified, they will read your routing number and account number to you over the phone.
This method works during business hours and is useful if you need the numbers when ready and do not have online access. Keep a pen and paper ready so you can write down both numbers as the representative speaks. Ask them to repeat the numbers if you are unsure — it is better to confirm than to write them down wrong.
Visiting a Wells Fargo branch in person
Walk into any Wells Fargo branch with a valid photo ID and ask a teller for your account and routing number. They can print this information on a slip of paper for you right away, or they can order new checks if you need them. This is the slowest method if you need the numbers urgently, since it requires you to travel to a branch during business hours.
However, if you are already at a branch for another reason — such as depositing cash or speaking with a banker — asking for your numbers takes only a minute. Some branches are busier than others, so calling ahead to confirm wait times can save you a trip.
Understanding routing numbers and why they vary
Wells Fargo uses different routing numbers depending on which state your account is in and what type of account you hold. A checking account in California may have a different routing number than a checking account in Texas, even though both are Wells Fargo accounts. This is why you should always use the routing number printed on your own check rather than searching for a "Wells Fargo routing number" online — the number you find might not be the correct one for your specific account.
The routing number system exists because the U.S. banking network routes checks and electronic transfers through different processing centers based on geography and account type. Using the wrong routing number can cause a payment to be delayed or sent to the wrong place. The account number, by contrast, is unique to you alone and does not change based on location.
When you need these numbers and what to do with them
You will need your routing and account numbers when you set up direct deposit from an employer or government agency, arrange automatic bill payments, or send money via wire transfer. You may also need them if you are opening a new account at a different bank and want to transfer money from your Wells Fargo account. Some online services ask for these numbers to verify that you own the account.
The routing number is considered public information and is safe to share with employers, payroll services, or anyone who needs to deposit money into your account. Your account number is more sensitive — share it only with people and organizations you trust completely. Never give out your account number in response to an unsolicited email, text, or phone call, even if the message appears to come from Wells Fargo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any Wells Fargo routing number I find online, or does it have to be from my check?
Always use the routing number from your own check. Wells Fargo operates multiple routing numbers depending on state and account type. Using the wrong one can delay or misdirect your payment. If you do not have a check, call 1-800-869-3557 or log into your online account to get the correct number for your specific account.
What is the difference between my account number and my routing number?
Your routing number (nine digits) identifies which Wells Fargo processing center handles your account and varies by state and account type. Your account number (up to 17 digits) is unique to you alone and tells the bank which specific account to use. You need both numbers together for direct deposits and transfers.
Is it safe to give my account number to my employer for direct deposit?
Yes, giving your account and routing numbers to your employer for direct deposit is safe and standard practice. Direct deposit is a find, automated process. However, only share these numbers with employers, payroll services, and organizations you trust. Never share them in response to unsolicited messages.
What if I cannot read the numbers at the bottom of my check because the ink is smudged?
Log into your Wells Fargo online account and go to Account Details, call 1-800-869-3557, or visit a branch in person. All three methods will give you your routing and account numbers without needing to read a physical check.
Do I need to order new checks to get my account and routing number?
No. You can find your routing and account numbers through your online account, by calling customer service, or by visiting a branch — you do not need a physical check. Ordering checks is only necessary if you actually plan to write checks.