Your account number is the second set of digits printed on the bottom of your check
The bottom of a check has three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group is your routing number (nine digits). The second group is your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits, though this varies by bank). The third group is the check number itself. Your account number is the one in the middle.
The account number identifies your specific checking account at your bank. It is unique to you — no one else at your bank has the same account number. You will need this number when you set up direct deposit, arrange automatic bill payments, or give someone instructions to send you money electronically.
If you cannot find your account number on a check, or if you do not have checks yet, you can find it on your bank statement, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank's customer service line. Your debit card does not display your account number — only your card number, which is different.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the middle set of digits on the bottom of a check, between the routing number and the check number.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, though the exact length depends on your bank.
- You can also find your account number on your monthly bank statement or by logging into your online banking account.
- Your account number is different from your debit card number and your routing number — each serves a different purpose.
How to read the numbers on the bottom of a check
The bottom left corner of a check shows three groups of numbers in a special machine-readable format. From left to right, they appear in this order: routing number, account number, check number. Each group is separated by a vertical line or symbol.
The routing number always has exactly nine digits. Your account number comes next and is longer — usually between 10 and 12 digits depending on your bank. The check number is the shortest, typically four to five digits, and it also appears in the top right corner of the check in regular print.
Some checks print the account number in regular digits above or near the machine-readable line as well, making it easier to spot. If your check does this, you can read it directly without counting positions.
Where else to find your account number
If you do not have a check in front of you, your bank statement shows your account number at the top or in a summary section. This is usually printed on the first page of a paper statement or displayed prominently when you log into online banking.
Your online banking portal — the website or app you use to check your balance and transfer money — displays your account number in the account details or settings section. You may need to click "Account Information" or a similar link to see it.
You can also call your bank's customer service number, which appears on the back of your debit card or on your statement. A representative can confirm your account number over the phone after verifying your identity.
Why you need your account number for different transactions
When you set up direct deposit for a paycheck or government benefit, your employer or the paying agency needs your account number along with your routing number. Together, these two numbers tell the electronic payment system exactly where to send your money.
If you want to set up automatic bill payments through your bank, you will provide your account number to the bank so it knows which account to pull the payment from. Similarly, if someone wants to send you money electronically — such as a refund or a payment — they will ask for your account number and routing number.
You do not need to give out your account number for everyday transactions like using your debit card at a store or withdrawing cash from an ATM. You only share it when setting up electronic transfers or automatic payments.
Account number vs. other numbers on your check
Your check contains several different numbers, and it is important to know which is which. The routing number (nine digits on the left) identifies your bank. Your account number (middle section) identifies your specific account within that bank. The check number (right side and top right corner) is straightforward the sequential number of that particular check.
Your debit card has a different number entirely — the card number printed on the front. This 16-digit number is used for card transactions at stores and online, not for electronic bank transfers. Your debit card does not show your account number or routing number.
When someone asks for your "banking information" to send you money electronically, they are asking for your routing number and account number — not your check number or card number.
What to do if your account number is hard to read
If the numbers on the bottom of your check are faded, smudged, or difficult to read, do not guess. Instead, use one of the other methods to find your account number: check your statement, log into online banking, or call your bank.
If you have ordered new checks and they have not arrived yet, your bank can provide your account number when ready by phone or through online banking. You do not need to wait for the checks to arrive to get this information.
If you have lost or damaged all your checks and cannot access online banking, calling your bank is the fastest way to confirm your account number. Have your Social Security number or other identifying information ready so the bank can verify who you are.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my check number?
No. Your check number is the short sequence printed on the right side of the bottom line and also in the top right corner of the check. Your account number is the longer middle section of numbers on the bottom line. Each check has a different check number, but your account number stays the same across all your checks.
Can I use my account number to withdraw money from an ATM?
No. ATMs use your debit card and PIN, not your account number. Your account number is only for electronic transfers, direct deposit, and automatic payments. You cannot access your account at an ATM with just the account number.
Is it safe to give someone my account number?
It is generally safe to give your account number and routing number to people who need to send you money electronically — such as your employer for direct deposit or a company processing a refund. However, do not share these numbers with anyone you do not trust, and never share them in response to an unsolicited email or phone call.
What if I cannot find the account number on my check?
Some older checks or checks from certain banks may print the account number in a different location or format. Check your bank statement or online banking account, where the account number is always clearly labeled. You can also contact your bank directly.