What Is the First Niagara Bank Routing Number?

Routing numbers are essential for processing financial transactions, ensuring money moves accurately between banks. Whether setting up direct deposits, making wire transfers, or handling automatic bill payments, using the correct routing number prevents delays and errors. Mistakenly entering the wrong number can result in failed transactions or funds being sent to the wrong account. Knowing how to find and verify First Niagara Bank’s routing number helps avoid these issues.

Locating the Correct Routing Number

First Niagara Bank was acquired by KeyBank in 2016, meaning former First Niagara customers now use KeyBank’s routing numbers. The correct one depends on the type of transaction and the state where the account was originally opened.

For those with checks issued before the transition, the routing number appears in the lower-left corner of the check as a nine-digit code identifying the financial institution. However, some First Niagara-branded checks may still be in circulation, and their routing numbers may no longer be valid. Verifying with KeyBank before using an old check ensures accuracy.

Online banking provides another way to find the correct routing number. By logging into a KeyBank account, users can access the routing number specific to their account. KeyBank’s website also lists routing numbers by state, which is useful for those who opened accounts in different regions.

Steps to Ensure Accuracy in Direct Deposits

Setting up direct deposit correctly ensures payments reach the intended account. A single incorrect digit in the account or routing number can result in a failed deposit or funds being sent to the wrong recipient, requiring time-consuming corrections.

Employers and payroll providers typically allow employees to update direct deposit details through an online portal. Before submitting changes, verifying the information by checking a recent bank statement or logging into online banking helps prevent errors. Some banks also offer verification services to confirm whether the entered details match an active account.

For those receiving Social Security benefits, tax refunds, or other government payments, the U.S. Treasury’s Go Direct program provides a secure way to enroll in direct deposit. Using an incorrect routing number for federal payments can cause processing delays, requiring individuals to contact the issuing agency to resolve the issue.

Ensuring Valid Routing Info for Wire Transfers

Wire transfers require precise routing details to ensure funds are delivered correctly. Unlike direct deposits or ACH payments, wire transfers are typically final once processed. Using the correct information from the start prevents funds from being misrouted or lost.

Banks often have separate routing numbers for wire transfers. KeyBank assigns specific wire routing numbers that differ from those used for other transactions. To obtain the correct number, contacting KeyBank directly or checking their official wire transfer instructions is the best approach. International wire transfers may also require a SWIFT code, an additional identifier for global transactions.

Processing times and fees vary depending on whether the wire is domestic or international. Domestic wires typically process the same day if submitted before the bank’s cutoff time, while international transfers may take several business days due to intermediary banks. Some banks charge higher fees for outgoing wires, so confirming the cost beforehand helps avoid unexpected charges.

Updating ACH Payment Setup

Adjusting ACH payment details requires careful attention to avoid disruptions in recurring transactions. Whether modifying payment instructions for mortgage installments, utility bills, or vendor disbursements, ensuring financial institutions and payees have the most up-to-date account information prevents missed payments and potential late fees. Many banks impose processing deadlines for ACH modifications, so updates should be made several business days before the next scheduled payment.

Businesses handling vendor payments through ACH must comply with NACHA (National Automated Clearing House Association) rules, which outline authorization and fraud prevention requirements. Changes to payment instructions typically require written authorization from the account holder, and companies must maintain these records for at least two years under NACHA guidelines. Failure to update ACH details correctly can trigger return codes, such as R29 (corporate customer advises not authorized), leading to processing delays and potential penalties.