The two numbers are printed at the bottom left of every check
Your routing number and account number are both printed on the bottom edge of your checks, in the lower left corner. The routing number comes first (nine digits), then your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits). They are printed in a special magnetic ink that banks read with machines, so they look slightly raised or darker than regular printing.
You do not need to memorize these numbers or write them down separately — they are there every time you write a check. If you have a checkbook, you can look at any check in it to find them. The numbers stay the same for as long as you keep that account open.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number (nine digits) appears first on the bottom left of your check, followed by your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits).
- These numbers are printed in magnetic ink and look slightly raised or darker than the rest of the check printing.
- You can find these numbers on any check from your checkbook — they do not change unless you close the account.
- Your bank's website or mobile app also displays both numbers if you need them without a physical check.
How to read the numbers in order
Look at the very bottom of your check. You will see a row of numbers printed in a darker or raised style. Read from left to right: the first nine-digit number is your routing number, and the number that follows it is your account number. Some checks also print a third number on the far right, which is the check number itself — that is not one of the two you need.
The routing number identifies which bank or credit union holds your account. The account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Together, they tell any other bank exactly where to send money when you give someone these details for a direct deposit or automatic payment.
Why the numbers are printed in special ink
Banks use MICR ink (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) to print routing and account numbers because machines can read them faster and more accurately than human eyes. When you deposit a check or your bank processes it, a machine scans these numbers and routes the money to the correct account automatically.
This is why the numbers look different from the rest of the check — they are designed to be machine-readable first, human-readable second. You can still read them with your eyes, but the special ink makes sure the bank's equipment can read them even if the check is slightly worn or faded.
Finding these numbers if you do not have a check
If you do not have a checkbook or have run out of checks, you can find your routing and account numbers through your bank's website or mobile app. Log in to your account and look for a section labeled "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Routing Information." Most banks display both numbers clearly on this page.
You can also call your bank's customer service number (usually on the back of your debit card) and ask them to read the numbers to you over the phone. They will verify your identity first, then provide both numbers. Some banks also print these numbers on your monthly statement, though not all do.
What happens if you give someone the wrong number
If you accidentally give someone your account number without the correct routing number, the money may not reach your account — it could go to the wrong bank or be rejected entirely. The routing number is what tells the banking system which institution to send the money to, so it has to be correct.
If you realize you gave the wrong number before the transaction goes through, contact the person or organization right away and provide the correct routing number. If the money has already been sent to the wrong place, your bank can sometimes trace it and recover it, but this takes time and effort. Double-check both numbers before you give them out.
Why you might need these numbers
You will need your routing and account numbers when you set up direct deposit for a paycheck, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive a wire transfer from someone. Employers ask for these numbers to deposit your pay directly into your account instead of giving you a paper check. Utility companies and other billers use them to pull payments automatically from your account on a set date each month.
You might also need them if you are transferring money between your own accounts at different banks, or if someone is sending you money and needs to know where to send it. In all these cases, you are essentially giving the other party a map to your account — the routing number says which bank, and the account number says which account within that bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are routing and account numbers the same for all my checks?
Yes. Every check from the same account has the same routing number and account number printed on it. These numbers do not change unless you close the account or switch banks. If you have multiple accounts at the same bank, each account has its own account number but shares the same routing number.
Is it safe to share my routing and account number?
Your routing number is public information — it identifies your bank, not your account. Your account number is more sensitive, but sharing both together is generally safe for legitimate transactions like direct deposit or bill payments. Never share these numbers with someone you do not trust, and be cautious if someone asks for them unsolicited.
Can I use my routing and account number instead of a check?
Yes. Many situations let you provide just the routing and account number instead of writing a physical check. This is called an ACH transfer (Automated Clearing House). Employers, billers, and people sending you money often prefer this because it is faster and more reliable than mailing a paper check.
What if my check is damaged and I cannot read the numbers?
Contact your bank and ask them to provide your routing and account numbers. You can also order a new checkbook — your bank will print the same numbers on the new checks. If you need the numbers when ready, your bank's website or customer service line is the fastest way to get them.