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What is an ABA routing number? How US bank payments find the bank

By SendPay Business · · 2 min read

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An ABA routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies a bank in the United States. It was introduced by the American Bankers Association in 1910, and US payments still use it to send money to the right bank.

Where to find it

It is printed at the bottom left of a US cheque, shown in online banking, and listed on the bank's website. The account number that follows it identifies the account itself.

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ACH and wire numbers

Some US banks use one routing number for ACH payments, such as direct deposits and bills, and a different one for wire transfers. Always check which one the payment needs.

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Sending money to the US from abroad

The US does not use IBANs, so an account number and routing number take their place.

  • The bank's SWIFT code.
  • The account holder's name and address.
  • The account number.
  • The routing number, if the sender's bank asks for it.
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Where SendPay fits

SendPay platforms include GBP, EUR and USD accounts and international transfers under your own brand, powered by licensed partners.

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How it works

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  2. Choose what it does
  3. Launch when you are ready

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It's all about creating your own financial platform with ease. Start with a free account today.

  • A free business accountOpen it in about a minute with your business name, email, password and mobile. No card and no documents to start.
  • Get paid from day oneTake card payments, and share your own payment link and invoices so customers pay in a click.
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SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank. Accounts, cards and payments are powered by licensed partners.

Questions people ask

How do I check a routing number?

The free checker tests its check digit.

Routing number checker →
What is a SWIFT code?

The code that identifies a bank abroad.

What is a SWIFT code? →
What is a wire transfer?

A direct bank-to-bank payment.

What is a wire transfer? →
What is an IBAN?

The international account number used in Europe and beyond.

What is an IBAN? →

Read next

Spotted a mistake or something out of date? and we'll fix it. How our guides are made

This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. Other companies named in this guide are reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.