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 left section. The routing number comes first (nine digits), then your account number (usually ten to twelve digits). You do not need to decode anything — they are already separated and straightforward to spot once you know where to look.

These numbers tell banks where your money lives and which account is yours. When someone sends you a direct deposit or you set up an automatic payment, you give them these two numbers so the money goes to the right place. Your check is essentially a printed version of this information, which is why both numbers appear there.

Key Takeaways

  • The routing number (nine digits) appears first at the bottom left of your check, followed by your account number.
  • Your account number is usually ten to twelve digits and identifies your specific account at the bank.
  • The routing number identifies your bank or credit union and is the same for all customers at that institution.
  • You can find these same numbers on your bank statement, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank if you do not have a check.

How to read the bottom of your check

Pick up a check and look at the very bottom edge. You will see a series of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink. On the far left, you will find nine digits separated by a colon or space — that is your routing number. when ready after that, you will see a longer string of digits (usually ten to twelve) — that is your account number.

Some checks also print a third number on the far right, which is the check number itself. That is not needed for direct deposits or automatic payments, so you can ignore it for those purposes. The routing and account numbers are what matter when you are setting up banking transactions.

What each number means

Your routing number is a code that identifies your specific bank or credit union. Every institution has its own routing number. If you have accounts at two different banks, each bank has a different routing number, but the routing number never changes for your bank. It is the same for every customer at that bank.

Your account number is unique to you. It identifies which account at that bank is yours. If you have a checking account and a savings account at the same bank, each one has a different account number, but they share the same routing number. The account number is what tells the bank which of your accounts to put money into or take money from.

Finding these numbers if you do not have a check

If you do not have a check in front of you, you can find both numbers in other places. Log into your online banking portal — most banks display your routing and account numbers in the account details or settings section. You can also look at your bank statement, which usually prints these numbers at the top or bottom.

If you cannot find them online, call your bank's customer service line. The number is usually on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Tell them you need your routing number and account number, and they will give them to you over the phone. This takes less than a minute.

Why banks print these numbers on checks

Checks were invented long before computers and online banking. The routing and account numbers were printed in magnetic ink so that bank machines could read them automatically when checks were processed. Even though most people do not write checks anymore, banks still print these numbers on every check because some people still use them, and the numbers are useful for other transactions.

Today, you use these numbers whenever you set up direct deposit from an employer, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive a wire transfer. The numbers are printed on your check because that was the original way banks distributed this information to customers. It is a habit that stuck around because it still works.

Keeping your routing and account numbers safe

Your routing number is public information — it is the same for everyone at your bank, and you can find it on your bank's website. Your account number is more sensitive because it identifies your specific account. Do not share your account number with anyone unless you initiated the contact and you know exactly why they need it.

When you give these numbers to set up direct deposit or automatic payments, you are giving them to a trusted source (your employer, your utility company, your landlord). That is normal and safe. But do not post these numbers on social media, share them in emails with strangers, or give them to someone who called you unexpectedly asking for banking information.

What to do if you lose a check or need a replacement

If you have lost a check or it was damaged, you do not need to order new checks just to find your routing and account numbers. Use one of the other methods above — check your statement, log into online banking, or call your bank. You will have the numbers in minutes without waiting for new checks to arrive.

If you do want to order replacement checks, contact your bank or a check printing service. Your bank can order them for you, or you can use a third-party printer like Deluxe or Costco (if you are a member). The new checks will have the same routing and account numbers printed on them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to memorize my routing and account number?

No. Write them down and keep them in a safe place, or store them in a password-protected note on your phone or computer. You will need them occasionally, but you do not need to memorize them. Your bank can always tell you these numbers if you forget.

Are the numbers on my check the same as the numbers on my debit card?

No. Your debit card has a different number (the card number), which is used for purchases and ATM withdrawals. Your routing and account numbers are separate and appear only on checks and in your bank account details. Never use your debit card number when someone asks for your account number.

Can someone steal money from my account if they have my routing and account number?

They would need both numbers plus authorization to move the money. Having just the numbers is not enough to drain your account. However, do not share these numbers with people you do not trust. If someone has both numbers and you did not authorize a transaction, contact your bank when ready.

What if the numbers on my check are smudged or hard to read?

Use your bank statement or online banking to find clear versions of the numbers. If you absolutely need to use the check, call your bank and they can confirm the numbers for you. Do not guess at the digits — one wrong number will send money to the wrong place.