Your account number is the second set of digits on the bottom of a check, printed between the routing number and the check number
The bottom of a check contains three separate numbers in a specific order from left to right: the routing number (9 digits), your account number (typically 10 to 12 digits), and the check number (usually 4 digits). Your account number identifies which specific account at your bank the check is drawn from. It is not the same as your routing number, which identifies the bank itself.
The account number appears in magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) format — the machine-readable numbers printed at the bottom left of the check. You can read it with your eyes, but it is designed so that bank processing machines can scan it automatically. The numbers are printed in a distinctive font that looks slightly different from regular text.
You will need your account number when you set up direct deposit, arrange wire transfers, or provide banking details to employers or creditors. It is specific to your account only — no one else's check will have your account number on it, even if they use the same bank.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the middle set of digits on the bottom of your check, located between the 9-digit routing number on the left and the check number on the right.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank.
- The account number appears in special magnetic ink characters designed for machine scanning, but you can read it by looking at the bottom left of the check.
- You should keep your account number private, as it is needed to access your account along with other identifying information.
The exact location and format on your check
Look at the bottom left corner of any check you have written or received. You will see a series of numbers printed in a special font. Read from left to right: the first nine digits are your routing number, the next 10 to 12 digits are your account number, and the final digits on the right are your check number.
Some checks print the account number in a slightly different position depending on the bank's design. A few banks print it above the MICR line or in a different location on the check face. If you cannot locate it in the standard position, look for a number that is longer than nine digits and shorter than the check number — that is your account number.
The account number will always appear in the same magnetic ink characters as the routing number. If you see regular printed numbers elsewhere on the check (such as in the top right corner where the check number also appears), those are not your account number in MICR format.
Why banks separate the account number from the routing number
The routing number tells the banking system which bank to send the check to. The account number tells that bank which specific account within the bank should receive the funds. Together, they form a complete address for your money. This separation allows the banking system to process millions of checks daily — the routing number directs the check to the right bank, and the account number directs it to the right account within that bank.
If you change banks, your routing number changes but your account number stays the same at your new bank. This is why you cannot straightforward move a check from one bank to another — the routing number is tied to the specific bank branch or processing center.
How to find your account number if you do not have a check
If you have not written a check recently or do not have one available, you can find your account number through your bank's online portal, mobile app, or by calling customer service. Most banks display your account number on the account overview page or in your account settings. You can also ask for it in person at a branch — bring your ID and the teller will provide it when ready.
Your bank statement also lists your account number, usually near the top of the first page. If you receive paper statements, this is often the easiest place to locate it without logging into your account online.
What not to do with your account number
Your account number alone cannot be used to withdraw money or transfer funds — a person would need additional information such as your name, address, and often a PIN or password. However, you should still treat your account number as sensitive information. Do not share it in emails, text messages, or over the phone unless you initiated the contact and you are certain you are speaking with your bank.
Scammers sometimes call claiming to be from your bank and ask for your account number to "verify" your identity. Legitimate banks will never ask you to provide your account number this way. If someone calls you asking for it, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your statement or card.
Account number length varies by bank
Most account numbers are 10 to 12 digits long, but some banks use shorter or longer numbers. Credit unions, regional banks, and large national banks may all have different standard lengths. The length does not affect how you read it — you straightforward count all the digits between the routing number and the check number.
If you are setting up direct deposit or a wire transfer and the form asks for your account number, enter exactly what appears on your check. Do not add zeros or shorten it — the receiving institution needs the exact number your bank assigned to your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the account number the same as the number printed in the top right corner of the check?
No. The number in the top right corner is your check number, which identifies that specific check. Your account number is the longer number at the bottom in the magnetic ink characters, located between the routing number and the check number.
Can someone access my account with just my account number?
Not on its own. Your account number is one piece of information. Someone would also need your name, address, and usually a PIN, password, or other verification to access your account or move money. However, you should still keep your account number private and only share it with trusted institutions.
What if the numbers at the bottom of my check are smudged or hard to read?
Contact your bank directly and provide your name and ID. They can tell you your account number when ready. You can also find it in your online banking portal, on your statement, or by calling the customer service number on the back of your debit card.
Do I need my account number to deposit a check?
No. When you deposit a check at an ATM or through mobile deposit, the machine reads the routing number and account number from the MICR line automatically. You do not need to enter it yourself. You only need to provide your account number when you are setting up a service like direct deposit or a wire transfer.