Your account number is on the bottom left of your checks; your routing number is in the bottom center
If you have checks, both numbers are printed at the bottom in magnetic ink. The routing number — a nine-digit code — sits in the center-left area. Your account number — usually 10 to 12 digits — appears to its right. The order from left to right is: routing number, then account number, then check number.
If you do not have checks or cannot find them, your bank's website or mobile app will show both numbers. Log in to your account online, look for a section called "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Statements," and both numbers will be listed there. You can also call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card and ask them to read the numbers to you over the phone.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number (nine digits) and account number (10 to 12 digits) are both printed at the bottom of your checks in order from left to right.
- If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or app and navigate to your account details or account information section.
- You can call your bank's customer service line and ask them to provide both numbers verbally.
- Never share your account number or routing number with anyone unless you initiated the contact and trust the recipient.
- Your routing number is the same for all customers at your bank branch; your account number is unique to you.
Finding the numbers on your bank's website
Most banks display both numbers in the same place online. Open your bank's website or app, sign in with your username and password, and look for a tab or menu item labeled "Accounts," "Account Details," "Account Summary," or "My Accounts." Click on the checking account you need information for.
Once you are viewing that account, scroll down or look for a section that says "Account Information" or "Account Number." Both your routing number and account number will be listed there, often with a small icon you can click to copy the number to your clipboard. Some banks also display these numbers on your account statement — check the top or bottom of any recent statement you have received by mail or email.
What these numbers do and why you need them
Your routing number tells the banking system which bank or credit union you use. It is the same for every customer at your bank's main branch, and it directs money to the right financial institution. Your account number tells the system which specific account within that bank is yours — it is unique to you and no one else has it.
Together, these numbers let other people or organizations send money directly into your account. You will need to provide them when you set up direct deposit for a paycheck, arrange automatic bill payments, or ask someone to send you a wire transfer. They are also required if you want to receive money through a peer-to-peer payment service that pulls directly from your bank account rather than using a card.
The difference between your account number and your debit card number
Your debit card number — the 16 digits printed on the front of your card — is not the same as your account number. The card number is used when you swipe or insert your card at a store, or when you type it into a website to make a purchase. Your account number is used for direct transfers between bank accounts.
If your debit card is lost or stolen, you can cancel the card without closing your account. The account number stays the same even after you get a new card. For this reason, sharing your account number is generally safer than sharing your debit card number, because the account number alone cannot be used to make purchases — it can only be used to move money directly in or out of your account.
When you should and should not share these numbers
Share your routing number and account number only when you have started the conversation and you trust the person or organization asking. Safe situations include setting up direct deposit with your employer, paying a bill to a company you do business with, or sending money to a family member or friend you know well.
Never give out these numbers if someone calls you unexpectedly, texts you, or emails you asking for them — even if they claim to be from your bank. Real banks will never ask you to confirm account details this way. If you are unsure whether a request is legitimate, hang up or close the message, find the phone number for your bank on your debit card or a statement, and call them directly to ask.
What to do if you cannot find your numbers
If you have lost your checks and cannot access your bank's website or app, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card. Have your debit card and a form of identification ready. The representative will verify who you are and then read both numbers to you. This usually takes less than five minutes.
If you do not have your debit card either, visit a branch of your bank in person with a photo ID. A teller can look up your account and provide both numbers on the spot. Some banks also allow you to request a new set of checks by mail, which will have your numbers printed on them when they arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my routing number the same as my bank's routing number?
Not always. Large banks may have different routing numbers for different regions or branches. The routing number on your checks is the correct one for your account. If you are unsure, check your bank's website or call customer service to confirm which routing number to use for a specific transaction.
Can someone withdraw money from my account if they have my routing and account number?
They cannot withdraw money directly, but they could set up automatic transfers out of your account if they also have authorization. This is why you should only share these numbers with people and organizations you trust. If you suspect unauthorized activity, contact your bank when ready.
What if the routing number on my checks is different from the one on my bank's website?
Use the number on your checks or the one your bank confirms when you call. Routing numbers can change if your bank merges with another bank or restructures its branches. Your bank's customer service team can tell you which number is current for your account.
Do I need both numbers to receive a wire transfer?
Yes. The person or organization sending the wire will ask for your routing number, account number, and account holder name. Some may also ask for your bank's address. Have all this information ready before you give someone instructions to send you money.
Can I use my account number alone to pay a bill online?
Most online bill payment systems ask for both your routing number and account number. Some may ask for additional information like your bank name or account type. Check the website of the company you are paying to see what they require.