Your account number is the second set of digits on the bottom of a check, printed between two colons
The bottom of a check contains three separate numbers, and they appear in a specific order from left to right. The account number — the number that identifies your individual checking account — sits in the middle. It comes after the routing number (on the far left) and before the check number (on the far right). All three are printed in magnetic ink that machines can read.
The account number is typically 10 to 12 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank. It belongs only to you and this specific account. If you have multiple checking accounts at the same bank, each one has its own account number.
You will see the account number printed twice on a check: once at the bottom in magnetic ink alongside the routing number, and once in the upper right corner in regular ink as part of the check number sequence. The one at the bottom is the one used for electronic transfers and deposits.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom of the check as the middle set of digits between two colons, typically 10 to 12 digits long.
- The bottom of a check always shows three numbers in order: routing number, account number, then check number.
- The account number at the bottom is printed in magnetic ink and is the version used for electronic banking transactions.
- Your account number is unique to this specific checking account; a different account at the same bank will have a different number.
How to read the numbers at the bottom of a check
The magnetic ink line at the bottom of a check is called the MICR line (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition). Reading from left to right, you will see: a colon, the routing number, a colon, the account number, a colon, and the check number.
The routing number identifies your bank or credit union. The account number identifies your specific account within that bank. The check number is straightforward the sequential number printed on that individual check — check 1001, check 1002, and so on. Each check in your checkbook has a different check number.
If you are looking at a check and cannot clearly read the numbers, you can also find your account number on your bank statement, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank's customer service line. Many people find it easier to locate the account number in their online account rather than squinting at the check itself.
Why you need to know where your account number is
You will need your account number when you set up direct deposit for paychecks, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive a wire transfer. You may also need it if you are depositing a check remotely using your bank's mobile app — the app will ask you to enter the account number along with the routing number.
When someone else is sending you money electronically, they will ask for both your routing number and your account number. These two numbers together tell their bank exactly where to send the funds. Without the account number, the money cannot reach your specific account.
The difference between account number and check number
The check number and the account number are not the same thing, and they serve different purposes. The check number identifies that individual piece of paper — it is unique to that one check. The account number identifies your entire checking account and stays the same across all your checks.
When you write a check, the recipient cashes or deposits that specific check, identified by its check number. Your bank uses the check number to track which check cleared and when. But the account number is what tells the bank which account to pull the money from. If you write check 1001 and then check 1002, both checks draw from the same account because they share the same account number.
What to do if you cannot find your account number on a check
If the numbers on the bottom of your check are smudged, faded, or hard to read, do not guess. Instead, log into your online banking account — your bank's website or mobile app will display your account number clearly in your account settings or account overview section.
You can also call your bank's customer service number, which is usually printed on the back of your debit card or on your monthly statement. Have your name and the last four digits of your Social Security number ready, and they will confirm your account number over the phone. This takes less than a minute.
If you are trying to read the MICR line and the ink is genuinely illegible, you can order new checks from your bank. Your bank can print new checks with the same account number, and the magnetic ink will be clear and readable.
Account number security and when to share it
Your account number is semi-public information — it appears on every check you write, and anyone who receives a check from you can see it. However, you should still be cautious about sharing it. Only provide your account number and routing number to people and organizations you trust, such as your employer (for direct deposit), your bank, or established companies where you are setting up a legitimate transaction.
Do not share your account number in response to unsolicited calls, emails, or text messages, even if the sender claims to be from your bank. Your bank will never ask you to confirm your account number via email or text. If you are unsure whether a request is legitimate, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your debit card or statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank; your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Both appear on the bottom of your check, but they are separate numbers. You need both to set up direct deposit or receive electronic transfers.
Can someone withdraw money from my account if they have my account number?
Not without additional information. Your account number alone is not enough to withdraw money. A person would also need your routing number, and even then, most banks require additional verification before processing a transfer. Checks are designed so that your account number is visible, which is why it is considered semi-public information.
What if I have multiple checking accounts at the same bank?
Each account has its own account number. Your checks for one account will show a different account number than checks for another account, even though both accounts are at the same bank. This allows you to keep your accounts separate and direct money to the correct one.
Where else can I find my account number besides a check?
Your account number appears on your monthly bank statement, in your online banking portal, on your debit card (sometimes), and in your bank's mobile app. You can also call your bank's customer service line and they will provide it after verifying your identity.
Do I need to memorize my account number?
No. You can look it up whenever you need it. Most people keep it written down in a safe place or straightforward pull it up from their online account when they need to provide it for direct deposit or other transactions.