Your account number is printed at the bottom of every check you write
The account number appears in the bottom-left section of your check, printed in magnetic ink. It is a series of digits that comes after the routing number and before the check number. On most checks, you will see three groups of numbers separated by colons or spaces: the routing number (nine digits), then your account number (typically 10 to 12 digits), then the check number (usually four to six digits).
The account number identifies which specific account at your bank the check is drawn from. When you deposit a check or set up automatic payments, you need both the routing number and account number to complete the transaction. The check itself is designed to make both numbers easy to locate and read by machines and by hand.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the middle set of digits printed in magnetic ink at the bottom left of your check, between the routing number and check number.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank.
- If you cannot read the numbers on your check clearly, you can find your account number on your bank statement, online banking portal, or by calling your bank.
- The account number on your check is the same number your bank uses to identify your account for all transactions and correspondence.
Where exactly the account number sits on the check
Look at the bottom left corner of your check. You will see a series of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink that looks slightly raised or darker than regular printing. These numbers are arranged in a specific order from left to right: routing number, account number, check number.
The routing number comes first and is always nine digits. After a space or colon, your account number follows. It is longer than the routing number—usually between 10 and 12 digits depending on your bank. After another space or colon, the check number appears last, typically a shorter sequence of four to six digits.
The numbers are printed in a font designed to be read by check-processing machines, so they may look slightly different from the regular text on your check. This magnetic ink encoding is called MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition), and it is the standard format used by banks across the United States.
How to read the numbers if they are hard to see
If the numbers at the bottom of your check are faded, smudged, or difficult to read, do not guess. Entering the wrong account number will cause a payment to fail or go to the wrong account. Instead, use one of the other methods to find your correct account number.
The easiest backup is your bank statement. Whether you receive it by mail or view it online, your account number appears at the top or in the account information section. Your online banking portal also displays your account number prominently—usually in the account summary or settings area. If you have a debit card issued by your bank, the account number may be printed on the back or side of the card, though not all banks print it there.
If you cannot locate it through these methods, call your bank's customer service line. You will need to verify your identity with personal information like your Social Security number or the last four digits of your card, but the bank can tell you your account number immediately.
Why you need both the routing number and account number
The routing number tells the banking system which bank to send the money to. The account number tells that bank which specific account within the bank should receive or send the money. Together, they form a complete address for your account. Without both numbers, a payment cannot be processed.
When you set up direct deposit for a paycheck, transfer money between banks, or arrange automatic bill payments, you will be asked for both numbers. Some forms ask for them separately; others ask for the full sequence as it appears on your check. Either way, you need both to complete the transaction.
Differences between account numbers at different banks
Account number length varies by bank. Most banks use 10 to 12 digits, but some use fewer and others use more. The format and appearance of the magnetic ink numbers can also differ slightly from bank to bank, though the position at the bottom left of the check is standard across all U.S. banks.
If you have accounts at multiple banks, each account will have a different account number. The routing number may also differ if the accounts are at different banks or even at different branches of the same bank. Always double-check that you are using the correct account number for the correct bank before submitting a payment or transfer.
What to do if your check does not have readable numbers
Older checks, checks that have been wet or damaged, or checks from closed accounts may have numbers that are impossible to read. If you need the account number from a check you cannot read, contact your bank directly. Bring the check with you if you visit in person, or have the check number and approximate date ready when you call.
Your bank can look up the account number based on the check number and the date the check was issued. This is faster than trying to decipher faded or damaged magnetic ink. The bank may also be able to tell you whether the account is still active and what the current status is.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the account number on my check the same as the one my bank uses?
Yes. The account number printed on your check is the official account number your bank uses to identify your account for all transactions, statements, and correspondence. It never changes unless you close the account and open a new one.
Can I use just the account number without the routing number?
No. You need both numbers to complete most transactions. The routing number identifies the bank; the account number identifies your specific account at that bank. Providing only one will cause the transaction to fail.
What if the numbers on my check are printed in a different order?
The standard order is routing number, account number, check number from left to right. If your check appears different, contact your bank to confirm which number is which. Do not assume the order based on appearance alone.
Can I find my account number on my debit card?
Some banks print the account number on the back or side of the debit card, but not all do. The debit card number itself is different from your account number. Check your bank statement or online portal to be certain you have the correct account number.
Do I need to memorize my account number?
No. You can always look it up on your statement, online banking portal, or by calling your bank. Write it down and keep it in a safe place if you need it for reference, but memorizing it is not necessary.