How to Get a Bank Document With Account and Routing Number

Banks often require documents displaying both account and routing numbers for transactions like direct deposits, wire transfers, or automatic payments. Knowing where to find these details can save time and prevent errors.

There are multiple ways to obtain this information, whether through official bank paperwork, digital access, or by requesting it directly from your financial institution.

Official Documents Showing Account and Routing Numbers

Banks provide physical documents containing account and routing numbers, which are useful for financial transactions. These documents are typically issued when opening an account or during routine banking activities and serve as verifiable proof of banking details.

Paper Checks

A check contains both routing and account numbers at the bottom. The routing number, a nine-digit code, appears on the left, while the account number is next to it. This standardized format remains consistent across banks.

Temporary checks, often issued when opening a new account, may lack printed account holder details, which some institutions require for validation. If an official check is unavailable, ordering a checkbook ensures access to a reliable document displaying these numbers.

Bank Statements

Monthly or quarterly bank statements display account details and can be received by mail or downloaded from digital banking platforms. The account number is typically listed at the top, while the routing number may appear in the bank’s information section.

For official use, a stamped or certified statement from a bank branch may be required. Some financial institutions provide notarized copies upon request, which serve as formal proof of banking details. If only the account and routing numbers are needed, transaction history can often be concealed before submission.

Deposit Slips

Pre-printed deposit slips provided in checkbooks or at bank branches include account and routing numbers, making them a convenient reference. The routing number is typically placed alongside the account number, similar to a check format.

Blank deposit slips available at bank counters require manual entry of account details, increasing the risk of errors. Pre-printed slips are more reliable for verification purposes. Some banks also issue carbon-copy deposit slips, which serve as transaction records and may be accepted as proof of account ownership.

Verification Letters

A bank verification letter is an official document confirming an account’s existence and details. Unlike bank statements, which include transaction history, verification letters are specifically designed for authentication. These letters are typically signed by a bank official and printed on official letterhead, making them widely accepted for financial transactions.

When requesting a verification letter, specifying the required details is important. Some letters confirm only account ownership without listing the account or routing numbers. Financial institutions may charge a fee for issuing this document, and processing times vary. If a letter is needed urgently, visiting a branch in person may expedite the request.

Retrieving Details Through Digital Channels

Online banking platforms and mobile apps provide access to account and routing numbers without needing physical documents. Most financial institutions display this information within account details sections, often under settings or profile menus. Some banks require additional authentication, such as multi-factor verification, before displaying these numbers for security purposes.

Many banks also offer downloadable account verification documents through their digital portals. These documents, often referred to as direct deposit forms or account information sheets, can be generated instantly and typically include both the account and routing numbers. Unlike traditional bank statements, these forms exclude transaction history, making them suitable when only banking details are needed.

For those using third-party financial management apps linked to their bank accounts, retrieving routing and account numbers may be possible through the app’s settings. However, security concerns arise when sharing banking credentials with external platforms. Banks with API-based integrations, such as Plaid or Yodlee, allow secure retrieval of account details without storing login credentials on third-party systems.

Requesting a Document From Your Bank

If a digital copy or standard bank-issued paperwork does not meet specific requirements, requesting a formal document directly from your financial institution is often the best approach. Banks can provide customized letters or official records upon request, ensuring compliance with third-party verification standards. The process varies depending on the institution, with some allowing online requests through secure messaging systems, while others require an in-person visit or notarization for added authenticity.

Branch visits offer the advantage of immediate assistance, reducing wait times associated with mailed or emailed documents. Speaking directly with a representative also allows for clarification on document format, ensuring it meets the recipient’s specifications. Some organizations, such as government agencies or employers, may require bank-issued documents to include additional identifiers like a SWIFT code or IBAN for international transactions, which may not be included in standard statements or deposit forms.

Fees can apply depending on the type of document requested. While some banks provide verification letters at no cost, others charge administrative fees ranging from $10 to $50, depending on complexity and urgency. Expedited processing, often available for same-day service, may come with an additional surcharge. Reviewing the bank’s fee schedule beforehand can help avoid unexpected costs, and some institutions waive fees for premium account holders or longstanding clients.

Confirming Accuracy and Legitimacy

Ensuring banking documents are accurate and legitimate is necessary when providing financial details for transactions, regulatory compliance, or audits. Errors in account information can lead to delays in processing payments, rejected transfers, or misallocated funds. Before submitting any document, verifying that the account name matches official records is essential, as discrepancies—such as missing middle initials—can trigger rejections from financial institutions or government agencies.

Authentication measures vary by bank, but most institutions include security features on official documents to confirm their validity. Watermarks, bank seals, and signatures from authorized representatives are common markers of legitimacy. Some banks also issue documents with unique reference numbers that third parties can verify through customer service or online validation portals. When submitting documents to entities that require heightened security, such as the IRS for direct deposit of refunds or FINCEN for compliance reporting, ensuring that the document meets their authentication standards helps avoid processing issues.