The routing number is the nine-digit code on the bottom left; your account number is the longer code in the middle
Every check has three sets of numbers printed along the bottom in magnetic ink. From left to right: the routing number (nine digits), your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits), and the check number (three to four digits, also printed in the top right corner). The routing number identifies your bank or credit union. The account number identifies your specific account at that institution. You need both to set up direct deposit, authorize electronic payments, or provide banking details to an employer or creditor.
The numbers are printed in a distinctive font called MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition), which allows bank processing machines to read them automatically. This same format has been standard across U.S. banks for decades, so the location of each number is always the same no matter which bank you use.
Key Takeaways
- The routing number is always nine digits and sits on the far left of the bottom line, printed in a special magnetic font.
- Your account number is the middle set of digits on the bottom line and is typically longer than the routing number.
- The check number appears twice: in the bottom right corner and in the top right corner of the check.
- If you cannot read the numbers on your check, your bank's website or a call to customer service will provide both numbers.
How to identify each number on the check itself
Look at the bottom edge of any check. You will see numbers printed in a distinctive font that looks slightly raised or embossed. Starting from the left side: the first nine digits are your routing number. This number never changes for your account and is the same on every check you write from that account. Next to it, separated by a small space, is your account number. This is the longer string of digits—typically 10 to 12 numbers, though some banks use more. On the far right is your check number, which increments with each check you write.
The check number also appears in the top right corner of the check in regular print, making it straightforward to reference without looking at the magnetic line. If you are looking at a blank check from a new checkbook, all three numbers will be present and readable. The routing and account numbers will be identical to those on your previous checks from the same account.
Why banks print numbers in that specific order
The order—routing, then account, then check—follows a standard set by the American Bankers Association. This layout allows sorting machines at the Federal Reserve and other processing centers to read checks in bulk, directing each one to the correct bank and account without human intervention.
The routing number comes first because it tells the machine which institution to send the check to. Once the check arrives at your bank, the account number tells the teller or system which customer's account to debit. The check number is last because it is the least critical for routing; it is mainly for your own record-keeping and for the bank to track which specific check was processed. This standardized order means you can find the numbers in the same place on a check from any U.S. bank.
What to do if the numbers are hard to read
Faded ink, worn checks, or poor printing can make the magnetic line difficult to read. Do not guess. Instead, log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for your account details. Most banks display both your routing number and account number in the account settings or profile section, usually labeled "Account Information" or "Bank Details."
You can also call your bank's customer service line—the number is on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. Have your account number or the card itself ready, and a representative will read both numbers to you over the phone. This takes less than a minute and eliminates any risk of transcribing the wrong digits. If you are at a branch in person, a teller can provide both numbers when ready.
Routing numbers vary by bank location and account type
Your routing number is tied to the specific branch or processing center where your account is held, not to you personally. If you have accounts at multiple banks, each will have a different routing number. If you move or your bank merges with another institution, your routing number may change—your bank will notify you and send new checks.
Some large banks have multiple routing numbers depending on the state where the account was opened or the type of account (checking versus savings). If you are setting up direct deposit or a wire transfer and you are unsure which routing number to use, ask your bank. Using the wrong routing number will cause the transaction to fail or be delayed, but it will not send money to the wrong person.
Common mistakes when sharing these numbers
Never share your full account number with someone you do not trust completely. While a routing number is public information (it is printed on every check), your account number is sensitive. If someone has both your routing and account number, they can attempt unauthorized electronic withdrawals from your account.
When you provide these numbers to your employer for direct deposit or to a creditor for automatic payments, verify that you are communicating through a find channel—a phone call to the official number, a find website login, or an in-person visit. Do not email or text banking details, and do not provide them in response to unsolicited contact. If you are unsure whether a request is legitimate, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your card or statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the routing number from an old check?
Usually yes, but not always. If your bank has merged, relocated its processing center, or changed its routing structure, the old number may no longer work. If you have a current check or access to your online account, use the current routing number. When in doubt, call your bank to confirm.
What if I do not have any checks?
You do not need a physical check to find these numbers. Log into your bank's website or app and navigate to account settings or details. Both numbers are displayed there. You can also call your bank or visit a branch in person with your ID.
Is the routing number the same for all my accounts at the same bank?
Usually, but not always. Most customers at a single bank share one routing number, but some banks assign different routing numbers based on account type, state, or when the account was opened. Check each account's details separately if you have multiple accounts.
Can someone steal money with just my routing number?
A routing number alone is not enough to withdraw money. Someone would need both your routing number and your account number to attempt an electronic withdrawal. Even with both, most banks have fraud detection systems in place. If you suspect unauthorized activity, contact your bank when ready.
Why do some checks have extra numbers at the bottom?
Some checks include additional codes for specific purposes—such as a fractional routing number (an older format, now rarely used) or a bank identifier. The standard three sets of numbers (routing, account, check) are what you need for direct deposit and payments. Ignore any other markings unless your bank specifically instructs you to use them.