Your account number is in the bottom left of the check, after the routing number
Look at the bottom left edge of any check. You will see a series of numbers printed in magnetic ink. The first set of numbers (usually nine digits) is your routing number. when ready after it comes your account number, which is typically 10 to 12 digits long but varies by bank.
The account number identifies your specific account at your bank. The routing number identifies which bank you use. Together, they tell another bank or employer exactly where to send money when you give them a check or set up a direct deposit.
If your checks are ordered from your bank, both numbers are always printed there. If you have lost your checks or they have not arrived yet, you can find your account number in other places — your bank statement, your debit card, your online banking login, or by calling your bank's customer service line.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of a check, right after the nine-digit routing number.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits, though the exact length depends on your bank.
- You can also find your account number on your bank statement, debit card, or by logging into online banking.
- Never share your account number with anyone except your bank or an organization you are paying directly.
- The routing number and account number work together to direct deposits and payments to the correct account.
The order of numbers at the bottom of a check
The bottom of a check always displays numbers in the same order, left to right. First comes the routing number (nine digits), then your account number, then the check number. This standardized layout exists so that banks can process checks quickly by machine.
The routing number comes first because the receiving bank needs to know which bank to contact. Once that bank is identified, your account number tells them which account within that bank should receive the money. The check number at the end is straightforward a reference for your own records.
Where else to find your account number
If you do not have a check in front of you, your account number appears in several other places. Your monthly bank statement lists it clearly, usually near the top. If you have a debit card from your bank, the account number is often printed on the back or visible through online banking.
The fastest way is usually to log into your bank's website or mobile app. Your account number will be displayed on the main dashboard or in an account details section. If you cannot find it online, call your bank's customer service number — it is on the back of your debit card or on your most recent statement — and they can tell you when ready.
Why banks print it on checks
Banks print your routing and account numbers on checks because checks are designed to be processed by machines, not by hand. The magnetic ink used to print these numbers can be read by high-speed scanners at banks and processing centers. This allows millions of checks to be sorted and deposited without human intervention.
The numbers are printed in a specific format and location so that every check, regardless of which bank issued it, can be read the same way. This standardization has been in place for decades and is why the layout never changes.
Keeping your account number safe
Your account number is not secret in the way a password is — it is printed on every check you write and visible to anyone who receives one. However, you should still be cautious about sharing it. Never give your account number to someone who calls you unexpectedly, even if they claim to be from your bank.
Your bank will never ask for your account number over the phone or by email. If you are setting up direct deposit with an employer or paying a bill, it is normal and safe to provide your account number and routing number together. But do not share these numbers with anyone you do not trust or recognize.
What to do if you cannot read the numbers
If the numbers at the bottom of your check are faded, smudged, or hard to read, do not guess. Contact your bank directly. They can confirm your account number and routing number in seconds and will not charge you for this information.
If you have very old checks, the ink may have faded over time. In this case, ordering new checks from your bank is the simplest solution. Your bank can print fresh checks with clear, readable numbers. You can also request a temporary check or a counter check from your bank branch while you wait for new ones to arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my debit card number?
No. Your debit card number and your account number are different. Your account number identifies your bank account. Your debit card number is a separate number assigned to that specific card. You may have multiple debit cards linked to the same account, each with its own card number.
Can someone take 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. Never share your account number with strangers, but know that it appearing on a check you write is a normal part of banking.
What if my checks have the wrong account number printed on them?
Contact your bank when ready. This is a printing error and your bank will reorder your checks at no cost to you. Do not use the checks with the wrong account number, as deposits or payments may go to the wrong account.
Do I need both the routing number and account number to set up direct deposit?
Yes. Your employer or the organization setting up direct deposit will ask for both numbers. The routing number tells them which bank to contact, and the account number tells that bank which account to deposit money into. You can find both at the bottom left of any check.