routing number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "routing number" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of banking to refer to a unique identifier for a financial institution in the United States. Example: "To complete the wire transfer, please provide your bank's routing number along with your account number."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A transit routing number also commonly known as a check routing number, ABA number or routing transit number (RTN) —is a 9-digit code that identifies the bank, its branch and location.

WikiHow

Alternatively, Bartlett went on, "they just take the bank routing number and the account number.

The New Yorker

You just enter your bank account and routing number, how many bitcoins you want and click "buy".

The New York Times - Tech

Routing Number Confusion.

Forbes

Routing number for Bank of America.

Science Magazine

Routing number for Wells Fargo Bank.

Science Magazine

A check holds all of the information needed to steal your identity: name, address, bank account, routing number.

Forbes

Routing Number: The number on the bottom left hand side of your check is your routing number; locate this number and enter it into the "Routing number" field in the middle of the "Link your bank account" page.

WikiHow

If your bank routing number begins or ends with the numeral 0, be sure to include it when you supply your routing number.

WikiHow

When entering your routing number in the appropriate field, PayPal may already recognize the bank routing number and automatically input your bank's name for you.

WikiHow

Your bank account and routing number information (if you want your SSI benefit checks direct-deposited).

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always obtain the "routing number" directly from your bank or a reliable source, such as your check, rather than relying on memory.

Common error

Avoid mixing up your "routing number" with your account number. The "routing number" identifies the bank, while the account number identifies your specific account at that bank.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "routing number" functions as a noun, specifically a common noun, identifying a specific type of number used in banking. Ludwig's examples show it in contexts where it is essential for financial transactions, like providing bank details for direct deposits or online purchases.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

40%

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "routing number" refers to a nine-digit code that identifies a financial institution for transaction purposes. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, especially in banking and finance. It's crucial not to confuse it with the account number, which identifies a specific account. When providing your "routing number", always double-check for accuracy to avoid any issues with your transactions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

aba transit number

This is a more formal and technically specific term for a bank's routing number.

aba number

This is a shortened version of 'ABA transit number', commonly used in banking contexts.

check routing number

This is specific to the number found on a check, routing payments.

transit routing number

This is a more complete term that specifies the number's purpose: routing transit.

bank transit number

This term emphasizes the 'transit' aspect of routing, referring to the bank's identification for transaction routing.

bank code

A more general term that refers to a bank's identification code, but less specific than "routing number".

electronic funds transfer number

This describes the number's use in electronic transfers, rather than paper checks.

rtn

Acronym for Routing Transit Number. More informal and should be explicit the first time you use it.

bank identification code

Refers to a code that identifies the bank. It is a more generic term than "routing number".

bank identifier

A general term, but less precise than "routing number".

FAQs

Where can I find my bank's "routing number"?

The "routing number" is typically found on the bottom left-hand corner of your checks. It is a nine-digit number that identifies your bank.

What is the difference between a "routing number" and an account number?

A "routing number" identifies the financial institution, while an account number identifies your specific account at that institution. You need both for electronic transactions.

Can a bank have more than one "routing number"?

Yes, a bank can have multiple "routing numbers" depending on its size, geographical reach, and the types of transactions it handles. Always confirm you're using the correct one for your specific purpose.

What should I do if I accidentally provide the wrong "routing number"?

Contact your bank immediately. They may be able to stop or reverse the transaction. Providing the wrong "routing number" can lead to delays or misdirection of funds.