What a routing number is and why Wells Fargo uses multiple ones

A routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies which bank or credit union holds your account. Banks use routing numbers to sort checks, direct wire transfers, and process automatic payments like bill pay or direct deposit. Wells Fargo does not have a single routing number for the entire bank — instead, different routing numbers correspond to different states and account types.

When you send money out of your Wells Fargo account (whether by check, wire, or ACH transfer), the receiving bank uses the routing number to confirm the money is coming from Wells Fargo and to route it to the correct processing center. If you provide the wrong routing number, your transaction may be delayed or sent to the wrong place.

The routing number is different from your account number. Your account number identifies your specific account within Wells Fargo; the routing number identifies Wells Fargo itself (or more precisely, the Wells Fargo location that services your account).

Key Takeaways

  • Wells Fargo routing numbers are nine digits and vary by state and account type, so you must find the one for your specific location.
  • You can find your routing number on the bottom left of your checks, in your Wells Fargo online banking portal, or by calling Wells Fargo customer service.
  • The routing number for wire transfers may differ from the routing number for ACH transfers or checks, so confirm which one you need before sending money.
  • If you use the wrong routing number, your transaction may be delayed or rejected, so double-check before submitting wire transfers or setting up automatic payments.

Where to find your Wells Fargo routing number

The easiest place to find your routing number is on a check from your Wells Fargo account. Look at the bottom left corner of the check. You will see three groups of numbers: the routing number (nine digits) comes first, followed by your account number, then the check number.

If you do not have a check, you can find your routing number in your Wells Fargo online banking account. Log in to your account, go to the account details or account information section, and look for the routing number listed there. The exact location varies depending on whether you use Wells Fargo's website or mobile app, but it is usually under account settings or account summary.

You can also call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557 and ask for the routing number associated with your account. A representative will confirm your identity and provide the correct number for your state and account type.

Different routing numbers for different transaction types

Wells Fargo uses different routing numbers depending on how you are sending money. The routing number on your check is for check processing and ACH transfers (automatic payments and direct deposits). If you are sending a wire transfer, you may need a different routing number.

For domestic wire transfers, Wells Fargo's routing number is 121000248. This number is the same regardless of which state you live in, unlike the routing numbers for checks and ACH transfers. If you are sending an international wire transfer, you will need Wells Fargo's SWIFT code (WFBIUS6S) instead of a routing number.

Before you initiate any transfer, confirm with the receiving bank or the person receiving the money which routing number they need. Providing the wrong number can cause delays or failed transactions.

How routing numbers are organized by state

Wells Fargo assigns routing numbers based on the state where your account was opened or where your branch is located. For example, the routing number for a Wells Fargo account in California is different from the routing number for an account in Texas or New York.

If you moved to a different state after opening your account, your routing number may not change unless you transfer your account to a branch in your new state. The routing number stays tied to the original location of your account unless you take action to change it.

Because routing numbers vary by state, the best way to confirm yours is to check your checks or log into your online account rather than searching for a general Wells Fargo routing number online. A number you find on the internet may be correct for one state but not for yours.

What happens if you use the wrong routing number

If you provide an incorrect routing number, the receiving bank may reject the transaction outright, or the money may be routed to a different Wells Fargo location and delayed. In some cases, the transaction will fail and the money will be returned to your account, but this can take several business days.

For checks, using the wrong routing number printed on the check can cause the check to bounce or be returned unpaid. For wire transfers and ACH payments, the receiving bank will typically catch the error and either reject the transfer or contact you to confirm the correct information.

To avoid problems, always double-check your routing number before submitting a wire transfer, setting up automatic bill pay, or providing it to an employer for direct deposit. If you are unsure, call Wells Fargo or check your account online rather than guessing.

Routing number versus account number and SWIFT code

Your account number is unique to your specific account at Wells Fargo. It is usually 10 digits and appears on your checks, statements, and online banking portal. The routing number identifies the bank; the account number identifies your account within that bank. Both are needed to send money to your account.

A SWIFT code is used for international wire transfers instead of a routing number. Wells Fargo's SWIFT code is WFBIUS6S. If someone outside the United States is sending you money, they will need your account number and Wells Fargo's SWIFT code, not your routing number.

When you set up direct deposit with an employer or automatic bill pay with a creditor, you will typically provide both your routing number and account number. Make sure you have both before you start the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there one routing number for all Wells Fargo accounts?

No. Wells Fargo routing numbers vary by state and account type. The routing number on your check is specific to your location. For domestic wire transfers, the routing number is always 121000248, but for checks and ACH transfers, you must use the routing number for your state.

Can I use the same routing number for checks and wire transfers?

No. The routing number on your check works for checks and ACH transfers but not for wire transfers. For domestic wires, use 121000248. Always confirm with the receiving bank which routing number they need before sending money.

What if I moved states after opening my Wells Fargo account?

Your routing number stays tied to the state where your account was originally opened unless you transfer your account to a new branch. If you want a routing number for your new state, you can open a new account or contact Wells Fargo to see if you can update your existing account to a new location.

Where do I find my routing number if I do not have checks?

Log into your Wells Fargo online banking account and look in the account details or account information section. You can also call Wells Fargo customer service at 1-800-869-3557 and ask a representative to provide your routing number.

What is Wells Fargo's routing number for international wire transfers?

For international wires, use Wells Fargo's SWIFT code: WFBIUS6S. You will also need to provide your account number. A routing number is not used for international transfers.