Your account number is printed at the bottom left of your check, right after the routing number
The bottom of every check contains three sets of numbers printed in magnetic ink. Reading left to right, you'll see the routing number first (nine digits), then your account number (typically 10 to 12 digits), then the check number (usually three to four digits on the right). Your account number is the middle set—the longest string of digits between the routing number and the check number.
The account number identifies your specific checking account at your bank. It stays the same across all your checks from that account, so every check you write will have the same account number printed in that same position.
If the numbers are hard to read because of fading, damage, or poor printing quality, you can find your account number on your bank statement, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank's customer service line. Your bank can confirm the number in seconds.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears at the bottom of the check between the routing number (on the left) and the check number (on the right).
- The account number is typically 10 to 12 digits long and is the same on every check from your account.
- If you cannot read the printed numbers clearly, your bank statement or online banking account will show your account number.
- You need both the routing number and account number together to set up direct deposit, automatic payments, or wire transfers.
How the three number groups are arranged
The magnetic ink numbers at the bottom of a check always appear in the same order. The routing number (nine digits) comes first on the left side. when ready after it comes your account number. Then, usually on the far right, comes the check number—which is also printed in larger type in the top right corner of the check.
The spacing between these groups is intentional. Banks and payment processors read these numbers electronically, so they are positioned in a standard format that machines can scan. This is why the numbers must be printed in that specific magnetic ink—regular pen or marker will not work if you need to write them in.
The check number appears twice on your check: once in magnetic ink at the bottom right, and once in larger printed digits in the top right corner. This makes it straightforward to reference which check you are writing without having to read the small magnetic numbers.
Where to look if the numbers are faded or unclear
Older checks, checks that have been folded or wet, or checks printed with poor quality ink can have numbers that are difficult to read. If you cannot make out your account number from the check itself, your bank statement is the fastest source. Every statement—whether you receive it by mail or view it online—displays your full account number at the top.
Your online banking portal will also show your account number. Log in to your bank's website or mobile app, navigate to your account details or account settings, and your account number will be listed there. This is often the quickest method if you need the number right away.
If you do not have a recent statement or online access, call your bank's customer service number (usually on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website). Have your name, address, and possibly your Social Security number ready. The bank can confirm your account number in less than a minute.
Why you need both the routing and account number together
Your routing number and account number work as a pair. The routing number tells the banking system which bank to send money to. Your account number tells that bank which account within the bank should receive the money. Without both numbers, a transfer cannot be completed.
You will need both numbers when you set up direct deposit for your paycheck, arrange automatic bill payments, or initiate a wire transfer. If you provide only one number, the transaction will be rejected or delayed. Some forms ask for these separately; others ask for them together. Either way, you need both.
Your routing number is the same for all customers of your bank (or sometimes for all customers in your region of the bank). Your account number is unique to you. This is why you can safely share your routing number, but you should treat your account number more carefully—it is part of what someone would need to access your account.
Account numbers on different types of checks
Personal checks, business checks, and cashier's checks all have the same layout at the bottom. The routing number, account number, and check number appear in the same order and format on all of them. The difference is what account they are drawn from—a personal checking account, a business account, or a bank's own account (in the case of a cashier's check).
If you have multiple accounts at the same bank, each account will have its own account number, and checks from each account will show that account's unique number. The routing number may be the same across all your accounts at that bank, but the account number will be different for each account.
Starter checks (blank checks you can order before your official checks arrive) and temporary checks issued by your bank will also have your account number printed on them in the same position. The format never changes.
What to do if your account number does not match your records
If you find that the account number printed on your check does not match the account number shown in your online banking or on your statement, contact your bank when ready. This is rare, but it can happen if checks were printed for the wrong account or if there was an error during the printing process.
Do not use checks with an incorrect account number. If you deposit them or write them, the transactions may be routed to the wrong account, causing delays and confusion. Your bank can issue replacement checks with the correct account number, usually within five to ten business days.
Keep the incorrect checks in a safe place until you receive the replacement set. Your bank may ask to see them as part of their records of the error.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use just my account number without the routing number?
No. Your account number alone is not enough to complete a transfer. The routing number directs the payment to your bank; the account number directs it to your specific account within that bank. Both are required for direct deposit, wire transfers, and automatic payments.
Is it safe to write my account number on a form?
Your account number is part of the information needed to access your account, so you should only provide it to trusted sources—your employer for direct deposit, your utility company for automatic bill pay, or your bank itself. Avoid sharing it with unknown callers or on unsecured websites. If you are unsure whether a request is legitimate, contact your bank directly.
What if I lose a check before I can read the account number?
You do not need the physical check. Your bank statement, online banking portal, or a call to customer service will give you your account number. You can also order new checks and read the account number from those.
Do all banks print account numbers in the same place?
Yes. The routing number, account number, and check number always appear at the bottom of the check in that order, left to right. This is a standard format set by the banking industry, so the location is the same regardless of which bank issued your checks.
Can the account number change?
Your account number stays the same for the life of your account. It does not change when you order new checks, close and reopen an account, or change your account type. If your bank merges with another bank, your account number may change, and your bank will notify you and issue new checks.