ABA Transit Number

Dictionary Says

Definition of 'ABA Transit Number'

A unique number assigned by the American Bankers Association (ABA) that identifies a specific federal or state chartered bank or savings institution. In order to qualify for an ABA transit number, the financial institution must be eligible to hold an account at a Federal Reserve bank. ABA transit numbers are also known as ABA routing numbers, and are used to identify which bank will facilitate the payment of the check.
Investopedia Says

Investopedia explains 'ABA Transit Number'

The ABA Transit number was originally developed in 1910 to indicate check processing endpoints. Since then, the number's use has increased to include participants in check clearing between banking institutions, automated clearing houses and online banking activities.

The ABA check routing number is usually the first nine digits in the bottom row of numbers on any check. For example, if the bottom row showed 123456789 0100100120: 0123, the ABA routing number would be 123456789.

Related Definitions

  • Check

    A written, dated and signed instrument that contains an unconditional order from the drawer that directs a bank to pay a definite sum of money to a payee.
    Read More »
  • Demand Draft

    A method used by individuals to make transfer payments from one bank account to another. Demand drafts are marketed as a relatively secure method for cashing checks. The major difference ...
    Read More »
  • Routing Transit Number - RTN

    A nine-digit numerical code used to identify a banking or other financial institution to clear funds or process checks in the U.S. The routing transit number, as it appears on a check, ...
    Read More »
    • CUSIP Number

      An identification number assigned to all stocks and registered bonds. The Committee on Uniform Securities Identification Procedures (CUSIP) oversees the entire CUSIP system.
      Read More »
    • Federal Reserve Bank

      The banks that carry out Fed operations, including controlling the money supply and regulating member banks. There are 12 District Feds, headquartered in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, ...
      Read More »
    • Wire Transfer

      An electronic transfer of funds across a network administered by hundreds of banks around the world.
      Read More »

Articles Of Interest

Partner Links