Where to find your account number on a check

Your account number is printed at the bottom of a check, in the middle section between two sets of numbers. It comes after the routing number (which identifies your bank) and before the check number (which identifies that specific check). The account number is usually 10 to 12 digits long, though the exact length depends on your bank.

The three numbers at the bottom of a check always appear in this order: routing number, then account number, then check number. If you hold a check up to the light, you'll see these numbers printed in a special magnetic ink that makes them machine-readable. The account number is the middle set — not the smallest one on the right (that's your check number) and not the first one on the left (that's the routing number).

You don't need to memorize which is which every time. A straightforward way to remember: the routing number comes first because the bank needs to know which bank to send the money to, then the account number tells that bank which account within the bank, then the check number is just for your records.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account number is the middle set of digits at the bottom of a check, printed between the routing number and the check number.
  • Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, but the exact length varies by bank.
  • The three numbers always appear in the same order: routing number, account number, check number.
  • You can use your account number from a check to set up direct deposit or automatic payments without visiting your bank.
  • If you can't read the numbers clearly, your bank can tell you your account number by phone or through your online banking login.

Why the order matters

The order of these numbers reflects how money actually moves. When you write a check, the person who deposits it (or their bank) reads the routing number first. That number tells the banking system which bank to contact — in this case, your bank. Once the money reaches your bank, the system uses the account number to find the right account within that bank to pull the money from.

The check number on the right is only for your own record-keeping. Banks don't use it to process the check. It helps you track which check you wrote and when, so you can match it against your bank statement later.

Reading the numbers when they're hard to see

Sometimes the numbers at the bottom of a check are faint, smudged, or printed in a way that's hard to read. If you're having trouble, try holding the check under a bright light or at an angle. The magnetic ink used to print these numbers is designed to be read by machines, so it sometimes looks different than regular printed text.

If you still can't make out the numbers clearly, you have another option: call your bank's customer service line or log into your online banking account. Your bank can tell you your account number when ready, and you won't have to guess at the digits. This is especially useful if you need the account number for setting up direct deposit or automatic bill payments.

Using your account number from a check

Once you've found your account number, you can use it for several common banking tasks. You might need it to set up direct deposit for your paycheck, to arrange automatic payments to a creditor, or to receive a wire transfer. In all these cases, you'll also need your routing number, which is right next to it on the same check.

Some people worry about writing their account number down or sharing it. Your account number by itself — without your routing number — is not enough for someone to take money from your account. However, it's still reasonable to be cautious about who you give it to. Only provide your account number and routing number to organizations you trust, like your employer's payroll department or a utility company you're paying a bill to.

What to do if your checks don't show the numbers clearly

Older checks, checks that have been wet or damaged, or checks printed by a third party sometimes have numbers that are faded or missing entirely. If your checks don't show the routing and account numbers clearly, contact your bank and ask for a replacement checkbook. Most banks will reprint checks for free or a small fee.

In the meantime, you can still find your account number by logging into your online banking account — it's usually displayed on your account overview page — or by calling your bank's customer service line. You don't have to wait for new checks to arrive if you need the number right away.

The difference between account number and account type

Your account number identifies which account you have at the bank. Your account type — checking, savings, money market — is separate information that tells you what kind of account it is. The number on your check is always from a checking account, because only checking accounts come with checks. If you have a savings account at the same bank, it will have a different account number.

When you're setting up direct deposit or automatic payments, make sure you're using the account number from a check if you want the money to go into your checking account. If you want it to go into a savings account instead, you'll need to contact your bank to find that account number, since savings accounts don't come with checks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to give someone my account number from a check?

Your account number alone is not enough for someone to withdraw money from your account — they also need your routing number and usually additional authorization. However, only share your account and routing numbers with organizations you trust, like your employer or a company you're paying a bill to. Never give these numbers to someone who calls you unexpectedly claiming to be from your bank.

What if the numbers at the bottom of my check are in a different order?

The order should always be routing number, account number, check number from left to right. If your checks show them in a different order, contact your bank. This is unusual and could indicate a printing error on your checks.

Can I use the account number from an old check?

Yes. Your account number stays the same for as long as you have that account, even if you order new checks. An account number from a check you wrote five years ago is still valid and will work for direct deposit or other banking tasks.

Do I need both the routing number and account number?

For most tasks like direct deposit or automatic payments, yes — you'll need both numbers. The routing number tells the system which bank, and the account number tells the system which account at that bank. They work together, so having just one is not enough.

What's the check number used for?

The check number is for your record-keeping only. It helps you track which check you wrote and match it to your bank statement. Banks don't use it to process the check, so it's not needed for any banking transactions.