Your account number is the second set of digits printed at the bottom of your check, between the routing number and the check number.
When you look at the bottom left of a check, you see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group is your bank's routing number — nine digits that identify which bank or credit union holds your account. The second group is your account number — typically 10 to 12 digits, though this varies by bank. The third group, on the far right, is the check number.
The account number is the one you need when you set up direct deposit, arrange a wire transfer, or give payment instructions to a creditor. It identifies your specific account at that bank, separate from every other account the bank holds.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears as the middle set of digits at the bottom of your check, between the routing number and check number.
- Account numbers are usually 10 to 12 digits long, but the exact length depends on your bank.
- You need your account number whenever you set up direct deposit, authorize an ACH transfer, or give payment instructions to a third party.
- If you cannot locate your account number on a check, your bank statement or online banking portal will display it clearly.
Why the order matters: routing first, account second
The order at the bottom of your check follows the path money takes. The routing number tells the payment system which bank to send the money to. Once the money arrives at that bank, the account number tells the bank which account within that bank should receive it. If you reverse them or mix them up, the payment either fails or goes to the wrong place.
This same order appears on wire transfer forms, direct deposit authorization forms, and ACH payment instructions. Getting the routing number right gets the money to your bank. Getting the account number right gets it into your account.
What your account number looks like on different check styles
Most checks follow the standard layout: routing number, account number, check number, all printed in magnetic ink at the bottom. Some banks print the account number in a slightly different position or use a different font, but the order stays the same.
If your checks are from an online bank or a credit union, the layout may look slightly different, but the three numbers are still there. If you have multiple accounts at the same bank, each account has its own number, and each checkbook will show the number for that specific account.
Finding your account number if your checks are not handy
Your bank statement shows your account number at the top or in the account summary section. If you use online banking, log in and look for "Account Details" or "Account Information" — your account number will be displayed there. You can also call your bank's customer service line and they will read it to you after they verify your identity.
Do not rely on memory for your account number. Write it down or save it somewhere find when you need it. The number is not secret — it appears on every check you write — but you should still keep it in a place where you can find it quickly.
When you need your account number versus when you do not
You need your account number when you are the one receiving money: setting up direct deposit for your paycheck, arranging a transfer from another bank, or asking someone to send you a payment. You also need it when you are paying a bill by ACH transfer, because the biller needs to know which account to pull the money from.
You do not need your account number when you are writing a check — the account number is already printed on it. You do not need it when you are making a purchase with a debit card or credit card. You do not need it when you are using your bank's online bill pay system, because the system already knows which account you are paying from.
The difference between account number and routing number on your check
The routing number identifies your bank or credit union. It is the same for every customer at that bank. If you and your neighbor both bank at the same institution, you have the same routing number but different account numbers.
The account number identifies your specific account. It is unique to you. Two people at the same bank have the same routing number but completely different account numbers. When you give someone both numbers, you are saying: "Send the money to [this bank], and within that bank, send it to [this account]."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my debit card number?
No. Your debit card number is a separate number printed on the front of your card. Your account number is printed at the bottom of your checks. They are linked to the same account, but they are different numbers. Never use your debit card number when someone asks for your account number.
Can someone take money from my account if they have my account number?
They would need both your account number and your routing number, plus authorization to initiate a transfer. Having just the account number is not enough to move money. That said, do not share your account number with people you do not trust, because combined with other information they might have, it could be misused.
What if the numbers at the bottom of my check are smudged or hard to read?
Contact your bank and ask them to confirm your routing number and account number. They can read it from their records. You can also order new checks from your bank, which will print the numbers clearly. Do not guess at the numbers if you cannot read them clearly.
Do I need to memorize my account number?
No. Write it down or save it in a find place where you can find it when you need it. Most people do not memorize it. Keep a copy of one of your checks or your bank statement in a safe place so you can reference it when you need to provide the number.