ROUTE NUMBER AND ACCOUNT NUMBER: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Route number and account number: overview

Every financial transaction related to a bank requires two key pieces of customer identification information: a route number and an account number, which are assigned when an account is opened. Whether you need to set up a direct deposit , such as receiving a paycheck, or ordering checks online, you will need both your bank routing number and your personal account number for these transactions.

Account numbers are very similar to a customer ID or fingerprint, which is specific to each account holder. Similarly, routing numbers identify each banking institution with a unique numeric identifier. Routing and account numbers are assigned to indicate exactly where the funds are coming from and going to in a transaction. For example, each time you make an electronic funds transfer. Both the itinerary and account numbers must be provided to the relevant financial institutions.

Key Findings

• Account numbers and routing numbers work together to identify your account and ensure your money gets to the right place.
• Both numbers are required for many basic banking transactions.
• The routing number indicates in which bank your account is opened.
• The account number is your unique identifier in this bank.

Route number

A routing number (sometimes referred to as an ABA routing number in reference to the American Banking Association ). It is a nine-digit string used by banks to identify specific financial institutions in the United States. This number proves that a bank is an institution established by a federal or state agency. And has account in the Federal Reserve System.

Smaller banks usually have only one routing number. While large multinational banks may have several. Usually depending on the state in which you have an account. Routing numbers are typically required when reordering checks, paying consumer bills. Making a direct deposit (for example, to receive a paycheck), or for tax payments. Routing numbers used for domestic and international bank transfers do not match the numbers on your checks. 

Account number

The account number works together with the route number. While the routing number defines the name of the financial institution ,  the account number – usually eight to 12 digits – identifies your individual account. If you have two accounts with the same bank, the routing numbers will be the same in most cases, but your account numbers will be different.

Short review

Your account number is required for every conceivable banking transaction, whether within the bank where the account is opened or between banking institutions.

Anyone can find a bank routing number, but your account number is unique to you, so it’s important to protect it, just like your social security number or PIN.

Getting the best result

The highest possible score is 850, and the lowest is 300. In fact, reaching 850 is unlikely to succeed. This will require the perfect combination of many factors.

What is the magic number that will give you the best interest rates, payment terms, and benefits that come from being among the best of the best?

According to Anthony Sprouve, Director of Communications at FICO, “If you have a FICO rating above 760, you will get better rates and opportunities.”

How difficult is it to get this number? Looking at the averages, it’s not an easy task. The average credit score in America is in the range of 670-739.

If these statistics seem a bit depressing, don’t worry. Even if you don’t dial the desired 760 number, you won’t have to pay cash only for the rest of your life.

Routing number and account number example

You will be able to find your routing number and account number by logging into your online banking account. You can also find them on your checks. At the bottom of each check, you will see three groups of numbers: routing numbers (again, usually nine digits) appear as the first group. The account number usually comes However, sometimes. For example, on official bank checks, these numbers may appear in a different sequence.

This series of numbers is printed with magnetic ink, known as the MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) line of your check. Pronounced “micker”, the magnetic ink allows each bank’s processing equipment to read and process account information.

If you are ever unsure which number is which, you can contact your banking institution and always remember to double-check both numbers. When you provide them to another person. This will ensure a smooth transaction. Avoiding delays or any associated bank fees associated with funds being deposited in the wrong account.