What an ABA number is and why Chase has one
An ABA number is a nine-digit code that identifies which bank holds your account. ABA stands for American Bankers Association, the organization that created the system. Every bank in the United States has at least one ABA number, and Chase — like most large banks — has many of them, one for each location or processing center.
You need the ABA number when you set up direct deposit, arrange a wire transfer, or authorize automatic payments. It tells the sending bank exactly where to route your money. Without it, the transfer might go to the wrong place or fail entirely. The ABA number is not secret — it appears on your checks and is public information — but it has to be correct.
Chase's main ABA numbers vary by state and by the type of transaction. This is why you cannot straightforward search "Chase ABA number" and get one answer. The right number depends on where your account is physically held and what you are trying to do.
Key Takeaways
- Your Chase ABA number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, the easiest place to find it without calling.
- Chase has different ABA numbers for different states and account types, so the number for a New York account differs from a California one.
- If you do not have checks, you can call Chase customer service or log into your online account to find your specific ABA number.
- Wire transfers and direct deposit both require the correct ABA number for your account, not a general Chase number.
Finding your ABA number on your checks
The simplest way to find your ABA number is to look at a check from your account. At the bottom left of the check, you will see nine digits in this order: ABA number, account number, check number. The ABA number always comes first and is always nine digits long.
If you have not ordered checks yet or your checks are at home and you need the number now, this method will not work. But if you have even one check available, this is faster than calling or logging in.
Finding your ABA number through Chase online banking
Log into your Chase account on the Chase website or mobile app. Go to the account details or account information section — the exact location varies slightly between the website and app, but it is usually under "Account" or "Settings."
Your ABA number will be listed alongside your account number and routing number. Some versions of Chase online banking label it "ABA number," while others call it "routing number" — they are the same thing in this context. Write it down or take a screenshot before you leave the page, because you will need it for the next step of whatever you are setting up.
Calling Chase to confirm your ABA number
If you cannot find your number online or on a check, call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit or credit card. Have your account number and a form of ID ready. The representative will confirm your ABA number over the phone and may ask security questions to verify you own the account.
This method takes longer than checking online, but it guarantees you have the right number for your specific account. If you are about to wire money or set up direct deposit, it is worth the call to be certain.
Why Chase has multiple ABA numbers
Chase operates in all 50 states and processes transactions through different regional centers. Each state or processing region has its own ABA number. This means a Chase checking account in Texas has a different ABA number than a Chase checking account in Florida, even though both are Chase accounts.
The ABA number is tied to where your account is held, not where you opened it or where you live now. If you moved from one state to another, your account may still use the ABA number from the state where you originally opened it. This is normal and does not affect how your account works.
Using your ABA number for direct deposit and wire transfers
When your employer or another organization asks for your banking information to set up direct deposit, you will need three pieces of information: your bank name (Chase), your account number, and your ABA number. Enter all three correctly, or the deposit will fail or go to the wrong account.
For wire transfers, the process is similar. You provide your ABA number along with your account number to the person or organization sending the wire. They use both numbers together to route the money to your exact account at Chase. A wrong ABA number is one of the most common reasons wire transfers are delayed or rejected.
What to do if you cannot find your ABA number
If you have looked on your checks, checked your online account, and cannot locate the number, call Chase directly. Have your account number ready and be prepared to answer security questions. The representative can give you your ABA number in a few minutes.
Do not guess or use a number you find online that says "Chase ABA number." Using the wrong number will cause the transaction to fail, and you may have to start over. It is always better to spend five minutes confirming the correct number than to waste time troubleshooting a failed transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ABA number the same as the routing number?
Yes, in everyday banking they mean the same thing. The ABA number is the official name; routing number is what banks often call it. Both refer to the nine-digit code that identifies your bank and account location.
Can I use any Chase ABA number, or does it have to be the one for my account?
It has to be the one for your account. Using a different Chase ABA number will send the money to the wrong place or cause the transaction to fail. Always use the number from your checks or your online account details.
Do I need a different ABA number for checking versus savings?
No. Both your checking and savings accounts at Chase use the same ABA number. The account number is what distinguishes between them, not the ABA number.
What if I moved to a different state — do I need a new ABA number?
No. Your ABA number stays the same even if you move. It is tied to where your account was originally opened, not where you live now. You do not need to do anything.
Is the ABA number on my debit card?
No. The ABA number does not appear on your debit card. It is only on your checks and in your online account details. If you need it and do not have checks, log into your Chase account or call customer service.