Why does TD Bank have so many different routing numbers?
TD Bank's multiple routing numbers stem from its complex acquisition history. The modern TD Bank was created through the 2008 merger of TD Banknorth and Commerce Bank, both of which had already acquired numerous regional banks. TD Banknorth originated from Maine savings banks dating back to 1802, while Commerce Bank was founded in Cherry Hill, New Jersey in 1973. When TD Bank Group (the Canadian parent company) merged these institutions, they preserved the original routing numbers for existing customers to avoid disruption. Additionally, New York has two separate routing numbers because TD Bank serves both former Commerce Bank customers (metro NYC) and former Banknorth customers (upstate NY). Your routing number is based on where you originally opened your account and which legacy bank system your account came from.
Can I use any TD Bank routing number for my account?
No, you must use the specific routing number assigned to the state and legacy bank where you opened your account. Using the wrong routing number can cause payment delays, rejected transactions, or funds being routed to the wrong account. Even if you've moved to a different state, you still need to use your original routing number for ACH transfers and direct deposits. The only exception is wire transfers, which use a universal routing number (031101266) regardless of which state your account was opened in. If you're unsure which routing number applies to your account, check the bottom of your checks, log into TD Bank online banking, or call customer service at 1-888-751-9000.
What's the difference between ACH and wire routing numbers at TD Bank?
For ACH transfers (direct deposits, bill payments, automated transfers), you must use your state-specific routing number based on where you opened your account. For wire transfers (both domestic and international), TD Bank uses a universal routing number: 031101266. This applies to all TD Bank customers regardless of location. Wire transfers are faster but more expensive ($30 domestic, $50 international), while ACH transfers are typically free but take 1-3 business days. Wire transfers use the Fedwire system for immediate settlement, whereas ACH transfers batch process through the Automated Clearing House network. For international wires, you'll also need TD Bank's SWIFT code: NRTHUS33XXX.
How do I know which state my TD Bank account was opened in?
Check your account opening documents, which should indicate the branch location where you established the account. You can also find your routing number on the bottom left corner of your TD Bank checks, or log into TD Bank online banking and navigate to the account details section. If you're still uncertain, call TD Bank customer service at 1-888-751-9000 with your account number handy. They can confirm which routing number applies to your specific account. Remember, if you originally opened your account with Commerce Bank or Banknorth before the TD Bank merger, your routing number reflects that legacy institution.
Can I use TD Bank routing numbers for international transfers?
For outgoing international wire transfers, you'll use TD Bank's wire routing number (031101266) along with the SWIFT code (NRTHUS33XXX). However, TD Bank requires you to visit a branch in person to initiate international wire transfers; you cannot send them online or over the phone. For incoming international wires to your TD Bank account, the sender's bank will use TD Bank's SWIFT code and the wire routing number, along with your account number. Be aware that international wire transfers incur fees ($50 outgoing, $15 incoming) and take 3-5 business days to process. Additionally, TD Bank applies exchange rate markups (typically 1-3%) that increase the cost of international transfers beyond the stated wire fee.
