Finding Your Chase Bank ABA Number and What It's Used For
Chase's ABA number depends on which state you bank in and what type of account you have
Chase does not have a single ABA number. Instead, Chase maintains different ABA numbers (also called routing numbers) for different states and account types. When you need to set up a wire transfer, direct deposit, or automatic payment, you will use the ABA number that matches your specific Chase branch location and account.
The ABA number is a nine-digit code that identifies which bank and which branch within that bank will receive or send your money. Chase operates thousands of branches across the United States, and each routing number corresponds to a specific region or processing center.
You can find your correct ABA number in three places: on the bottom left of your checks (the first nine digits), through your Chase online banking account, or by calling Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935.
Key Takeaways
- Chase has multiple ABA numbers based on your state and account type, not one number for the entire bank.
- Your ABA number appears on the bottom left of your checks as the first nine-digit sequence.
- You can find your specific ABA number by logging into your Chase online account or calling customer service.
- Wire transfers, direct deposits, and automatic bill payments all require you to provide the correct ABA number for your account.
- Using the wrong ABA number can delay or misdirect your transaction, so verify the number matches your branch location.
Where to locate your ABA number on a check
If you have Chase checks, your ABA number is printed on the bottom left corner of each check. It is the first set of nine digits in the series of numbers at the bottom. The second set of numbers (usually longer) is your account number, and the third set is the check number itself.
The ABA number on your checks is specific to the Chase branch where you opened your account or where your account is currently serviced. If you have moved states or your account was transferred to a different processing center, the ABA number on older checks may no longer be current. Always use the ABA number from a recent check or verify it through your online account before initiating a transaction.
How to find your ABA number through Chase online banking
Log into your Chase online account or mobile app and navigate to your account details or account information section. Most accounts display the routing number (ABA number) directly on the main account overview page, sometimes labeled as "routing number" rather than "ABA number"—these terms mean the same thing.
If you cannot locate it in the main account view, look for a section labeled "Account Details," "Wire Instructions," or "Direct Deposit Information." Chase often displays the routing number in these sections because customers need it for setting up external transfers. The number you see there is the correct one for your specific account and location.
When you need to provide your ABA number
You will need your ABA number whenever you set up a transaction that moves money between banks or between accounts at different financial institutions. Common situations include setting up direct deposit from your employer, arranging automatic bill payments to creditors or utilities, initiating a wire transfer to another bank, or transferring money from a non-Chase account into your Chase account.
You do not need your ABA number for transactions within Chase itself—for example, transferring money between two of your own Chase accounts or paying another Chase customer through Chase's internal transfer system. You also do not need it for debit card purchases, ATM withdrawals, or checks you write to other people.
Why Chase has multiple ABA numbers
The Federal Reserve established the ABA numbering system in 1910 to route checks and electronic payments to the correct bank and branch. As Chase grew through mergers and acquisitions over the decades, it inherited routing numbers from banks it purchased. Chase also maintains separate routing numbers for different states and different types of accounts (checking versus savings, for example) to help the Federal Reserve and other banks process transactions efficiently.
This system means that two Chase customers in different states might have different ABA numbers even though they both bank at Chase. The routing number is tied to where your account is processed, not just the name on the sign outside your local branch.
What happens if you use the wrong ABA number
If you provide an incorrect ABA number, the transaction may be delayed while the sending bank tries to locate the correct destination. In some cases, the money may be sent to a different Chase branch or a different bank entirely, and you will have to contact both institutions to trace and recover it. Direct deposits with the wrong ABA number may be rejected by your employer's payroll system, causing a delay in receiving your paycheck.
Wire transfers with an incorrect ABA number are particularly risky because they are difficult to reverse once sent. Always double-check that the ABA number you are providing matches your current account and branch before confirming any transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ABA number the same as the SWIFT code?
No. The ABA number (routing number) is used for domestic transfers within the United States. A SWIFT code is used for international wire transfers and identifies a bank globally. Chase has both an ABA number and a SWIFT code, and you will use different codes depending on whether you are sending money domestically or internationally.
Can I use any Chase ABA number for my account?
No. You must use the ABA number that corresponds to your specific account's processing location. Using a different Chase routing number may cause your transaction to fail or be delayed. Always verify the number through your checks, online account, or by calling customer service.
Do I need my ABA number to open a Chase account?
No. You provide your ABA number to other people or organizations so they can send money to you. You do not need it to open an account—you will receive your ABA number once your account is open.
What if my Chase account was transferred to a different branch?
If your account was moved to a different processing center, your ABA number may have changed. Check your most recent statement or log into your online account to confirm your current routing number. Do not rely on old checks if your account has been transferred.
Can I find Chase's main ABA number online?
Chase publishes a list of its routing numbers by state on its official website. However, the number you need is the one for your specific account location, not a general Chase number. Always verify against your checks or account details rather than using a number from a general list.
This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.