The short answer: no, the 0010 is not part of your account number

Your checking account number and your routing number are two separate pieces of information. The routing number identifies your bank; the account number identifies your specific account at that bank. The four digits "0010" that appear on some checks is a check serial number, not part of either one. It tells the bank which check in your sequence you're using, nothing more.

When you write a check, the bottom left corner shows three distinct numbers in this order: routing number (nine digits), account number (typically eight to twelve digits), and check number (usually four digits). That check number—the 0010 on your first box of checks—is what tracks individual checks through the clearing system. It has no bearing on your account itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account number and routing number are separate from the check serial number that appears on your checks.
  • The four-digit number on the left side of your checks (like 0010) is the check serial number, which identifies that specific check, not your account.
  • Your actual account number typically appears in the middle section of the numbers printed on your check.
  • When you provide your account information to set up direct deposit or automatic payments, you give only your routing number and account number—never the check number.

Where each number sits on your check

The MICR line—the row of numbers printed in magnetic ink at the bottom of your check—contains three distinct fields. Reading left to right, you see the routing number first (nine digits), then your account number (variable length, usually eight to twelve digits), then the check serial number (usually four digits). Some banks print the check number in a different location as well, typically in the upper right corner in regular ink.

The check serial number increments with each check you order. Your first box starts at 0001 (or sometimes 0010, depending on the printer), and each subsequent check increases by one. When you order a second box of checks, the numbering continues from where the first box ended. This sequence helps you track which checks you've written and makes it easier to spot a missing check or reconcile your account.

Why the confusion exists

The check serial number sits visually close to your account number on the MICR line, which is why people sometimes wonder if they're connected. Additionally, when you look at a check, you see multiple numbers in multiple places—the routing number, account number, check number in the upper right, and the MICR line—which can feel overwhelming if you're not sure what each one does.

Banks and check printers don't always explain this clearly on the checks themselves. If you've never had to manually enter your account information for direct deposit or a wire transfer, you might not have had a reason to separate these numbers before. The moment you need to provide your account details to your employer or a creditor, the distinction becomes practical: you'll give them only the routing number and account number, never the check serial number.

What you actually need to share

When you set up direct deposit, authorize an automatic payment, or provide banking information to someone, you need only two numbers: your routing number and your account number. Do not include the check serial number. Your employer's payroll department, your utility company, or your mortgage servicer will ask for these two pieces specifically, sometimes labeled as "bank routing number" and "account number" or "bank account number."

Your check serial number is for your own record-keeping. It helps you identify which check you wrote in your register and matches it to the cleared check your bank returns to you (if you receive paper statements). It serves no purpose in electronic transactions and should never be shared as part of your banking information.

How to find your account number if you're unsure

If you've lost your checks or can't read the MICR line clearly, your account number appears in other places. Log into your online banking portal—your account number is usually displayed on the dashboard or in the account details section. You can also call your bank's customer service line and confirm your account number by providing your name, Social Security number, and other identifying information. Your bank statement also lists your account number at the top.

Your routing number is the same for all accounts at your bank and doesn't change. You can find it on your bank's website, in your online banking portal, or by calling customer service. The routing number is tied to your bank's location and the Federal Reserve district it belongs to, not to your individual account.

What happens if you accidentally include the check number

If you accidentally provide your check serial number along with your account number, it won't cause a problem. The receiving institution will recognize it as extraneous information and ignore it. Your direct deposit won't fail, your automatic payment won't be rejected, and your account won't be compromised. The system is designed to extract the routing number and account number from whatever information you provide and discard the rest.

That said, there's no reason to include it. Stick to the two numbers you're asked for, and you'll avoid any possibility of confusion or delay. If you're filling out a form and there's a field labeled "check number" or "check serial number," leave it blank unless the form specifically requires it for check-related transactions (like reporting a lost check to your bank).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the check number the same as my account number?

No. Your account number identifies your account at the bank. The check number (the four digits on the left of your checks, like 0010) identifies that specific check. They're separate pieces of information that happen to appear on the same line.

What if I write down my account number and accidentally include the check number?

It won't cause a problem. Banks and payment processors are designed to recognize and extract only the routing number and account number from the information you provide. The check number will be ignored.

Do I need to give my check number to my employer for direct deposit?

No. You need only your routing number and account number. The check number is not part of direct deposit setup and should not be included.

Where do I find my account number if I don't have checks?

Log into your online banking account—it's displayed on your dashboard or in account details. You can also call your bank's customer service line or check your bank statement. Your account number is always available through these channels.

Will my check numbers ever repeat or run out?

When you order a new box of checks, the numbering continues from where the previous box ended. In practice, your check numbers will not repeat during your lifetime. If you somehow reached check 9999, your next order would start over, but this is extremely rare for individual accounts.