Your Wells Fargo routing number is a nine-digit code that tells other banks where to send money to your account
Every bank has its own routing number. When you set up a direct deposit, pay a bill online, or send money between banks, the routing number is how the banking system knows which Wells Fargo branch or processing center should receive the funds. It is not the same as your account number — your account number identifies your specific account, while the routing number identifies Wells Fargo itself (or a specific Wells Fargo location, depending on the transaction type).
The routing number you need depends on where you opened your account and what you are doing with it. A Wells Fargo checking account in California might use a different routing number than one in New York, even though both are Wells Fargo accounts. The most common routing number for Wells Fargo is 121000248, but you should verify the correct one for your specific account before you use it.
Key Takeaways
- Your Wells Fargo routing number is a nine-digit code printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it by logging into your online account.
- The routing number tells other banks where to send money that is coming into your Wells Fargo account.
- Different Wells Fargo locations and account types may have different routing numbers, so always verify the one for your specific account.
- You will need your routing number and account number together when setting up direct deposit, making wire transfers, or paying bills from your account.
Where to find your routing number on a check
If you have Wells Fargo checks, the routing number is printed on the bottom left corner of every check. It is the first set of nine digits, before your account number. The format looks like this: the routing number comes first, then your account number, then the check number on the far right.
This is the fastest way to find your routing number if you have checks in front of you. You do not need to call anyone or log in anywhere — just look at the bottom of any check in your box.
How to find it in your online account
Log into your Wells Fargo online banking account or mobile app. Go to the account details or account information section — this is usually labeled "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Routing Number" depending on which platform you are using. The routing number will be displayed there alongside your account number.
If you cannot find it in the obvious places, look for a section called "Wire Transfer Information" or "Direct Deposit Setup." Wells Fargo often displays the routing number in these sections because that is where customers need it most.
Calling Wells Fargo to confirm your routing number
You can call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557 to ask for your routing number. Have your account number ready when you call. The representative will confirm the correct routing number for your account and can also tell you if there are multiple routing numbers associated with your account type.
This is useful if you are unsure whether the number you found is correct, or if you have multiple Wells Fargo accounts and need to know which routing number goes with which account.
When you need your routing number and account number together
Direct deposit is the most common reason you will need both numbers. Your employer or the organization sending you money will ask for your routing number and account number so they can deposit funds directly into your Wells Fargo account. You will also need both numbers if you are setting up automatic bill payments from your Wells Fargo account, or if you are sending a wire transfer to someone else.
When you provide these numbers, make sure you are giving them to a trusted source — your employer's payroll department, your bank, or a company you are paying intentionally. Never share your account number with someone who contacts you unexpectedly asking for banking information.
Different routing numbers for different transaction types
Wells Fargo uses different routing numbers depending on what kind of transaction you are making. For direct deposits and most everyday transfers, you will use one routing number. For wire transfers, you might use a different one. The routing number can also vary by the state where you opened your account.
This is why it is important to verify the correct routing number for the specific transaction you are about to make. If you are setting up direct deposit, ask your employer or payroll department which routing number they need, or check the Wells Fargo website for the direct deposit routing number in your state. If you are sending a wire transfer, Wells Fargo will tell you which routing number to use when you initiate the transfer.
What to do if you cannot find your routing number
If you do not have checks, cannot log into your account, and prefer not to call, you can visit a Wells Fargo branch in person. Bring your ID and account information, and a banker can write down your routing number for you. This takes a few minutes and requires no appointment.
You can also search for "Wells Fargo routing number" plus your state name online — Wells Fargo publishes routing numbers by state on their website, though you should verify the number matches your account before you use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number the same for all Wells Fargo customers?
No. While many Wells Fargo customers share the same routing number, the number can vary by state and account type. Always verify the routing number for your specific account before you use it for a transaction.
Can I use the same routing number for direct deposit and wire transfers?
Not always. Direct deposits and wire transfers sometimes use different routing numbers at Wells Fargo. When you set up either transaction, Wells Fargo or the other party will tell you which routing number to use.
What happens if I use the wrong routing number?
If you use an incorrect routing number, the money may go to the wrong bank or be delayed while the banking system tries to sort it out. The transaction might be rejected entirely. Always double-check the routing number before you confirm a transfer.
Do I need my routing number to check my balance or pay a bill online?
No. You only need your routing number when money is coming from outside Wells Fargo into your account, or when you are sending money out to another bank. For everyday account management, you just need your account number and password.