Your account number is in the bottom left corner of the check, after the routing number

When you look at the bottom of a check, you will see a series of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink. These numbers read from left to right as: routing number, then account number, then check number. The account number is the middle set of digits, and it is usually between 10 and 12 digits long, though this varies by bank.

The account number identifies which specific account at your bank the check is drawn from. If you have multiple accounts at the same bank — a checking account and a savings account, for example — each one has its own account number. The routing number tells the receiving bank which bank to pull the money from; the account number tells them which account within that bank.

You do not need to memorize where it is. Once you know to look at the bottom left, it becomes obvious. The numbers are always printed in the same order on every check from your account.

Key Takeaways

  • The account number appears in the bottom left of the check, between the routing number on the far left and the check number on the far right.
  • Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, but the exact length depends on your bank.
  • Each account you hold at a bank has its own unique account number, even if they are both at the same institution.
  • The account number is printed in magnetic ink so that check-processing machines can read it automatically.

How to read the numbers at the bottom of a check

The bottom of a check contains three separate groups of numbers, always in the same order. On the far left is the routing number (usually 9 digits). In the middle is your account number. On the far right is the check number, which matches the number printed in the upper right corner of the check.

These numbers are printed in a special format called MICR, which stands for Magnetic Ink Character Recognition. The magnetic ink allows machines to read the numbers quickly and accurately during processing. You can read them with your eyes just fine, but the machines that sort and process checks read them electronically.

If the numbers are smudged, faded, or hard to read, you may have trouble depositing the check or using it for other purposes. If you cannot read them clearly, contact your bank for help or request a replacement check.

Why you might need to find your account number

You may need your account number for several common banking tasks. Setting up direct deposit for your paycheck requires your account number and routing number. Arranging automatic bill payments also requires both numbers. If you are receiving a wire transfer or an ACH transfer (a common way to move money between banks), the sender will ask for your account number.

Your check is one place to find this information, but it is not the only place. Your bank statement shows your account number at the top. Your debit card may have it printed on the back. Your online banking login will display it. Your bank's mobile app usually shows it as well. If you cannot find a check, any of these other sources will work.

What the account number does and does not tell you

Your account number is specific to you and your bank. It does not contain information about your balance, your credit history, or how much money you have. It is straightforward an identifier — like a street address for your money at that bank. Someone who sees your account number cannot access your account or move your money without also having your routing number and other information.

The account number alone is not enough to steal from your account. However, you should still treat it as private information. If you are writing a check to someone, they will see your account number on the check itself. This is normal and expected. But you should not share your account number with people you do not trust, and you should not post it on social media or in public forums.

Differences between checking and savings account numbers

If you have both a checking account and a savings account at the same bank, each account has its own account number. The routing number stays the same — it identifies the bank. But the account number changes — it identifies which specific account you are using.

This matters when you are setting up transfers or direct deposits. If you accidentally use your savings account number when you meant to use your checking account number, the money will go to the wrong place. Double-check that you are using the correct account number for the account you intend to use.

You can find the account number for each account on the checks for that account (if you have checks for your savings account), on your statements, or in your online banking portal. Most banks let you see all your account numbers in one place when you log in.

What to do if you cannot find your account number on a check

If your checks are old, damaged, or the numbers are faded, you may not be able to read the account number clearly. In this case, you have several options. Log into your online banking account — your account number is almost always displayed on the main dashboard or in your account settings. Call your bank's customer service line and ask them to read it to you. Visit a branch in person and ask a teller to write it down for you.

You can also request a new box of checks from your bank. This is usually free or low-cost, and the new checks will have clear, readable numbers. If you need your account number right away and cannot wait for new checks to arrive, the online or phone options are faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

It depends on who you are giving it to and why. If you are paying a bill or setting up a transfer with a legitimate company or person you trust, it is normal and safe. If a stranger calls you asking for your account number, do not give it to them — legitimate banks and companies will not call you asking for this information.

Can someone use my account number to withdraw money?

Not without additional information. Your account number alone is not enough to access your account or move money. A person would also need your routing number, and even then, they would typically need authorization from you or a court order. However, you should still keep your account number private and only share it with people and organizations you trust.

What if I give someone the wrong account number by mistake?

If you accidentally give someone your savings account number instead of your checking account number, the money will go to the wrong account. Contact your bank and the person or company you sent the information to right away. They can usually redirect the transfer to the correct account, but it is faster to catch the mistake before the transfer happens.

Do I need my account number to deposit a check?

No. When you deposit a check at an ATM or through mobile deposit, you do not need to enter your account number — the machine or app already knows which account you are depositing into. You only need your account number when you are giving it to someone else, like an employer or a company you are paying.