Where to find your account number on a check
Your checking account number is printed at the bottom of every check you write. It appears as a series of digits between two other numbers — the routing number on the left and the check number on the right. The account number is usually 10 to 12 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank.
Look at the bottom left corner of the check. You will see three groups of numbers separated by colons or special symbols. The middle group is your account number. For example, if you see 121000248:987654321:1001, the account number is 987654321.
The account number identifies your specific account at your bank. It is different from your routing number, which identifies the bank itself. You need both numbers to set up direct deposit, arrange wire transfers, or give payment instructions to employers and service providers.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number sits in the middle of the three number groups printed at the bottom of a check, between the routing number and check number.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, but the length depends on your bank.
- You can also find your account number on your bank statement, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank's customer service line.
- Never share your account number with anyone you do not trust, and do not write it on the memo line of a check.
The three number groups at the bottom of a check
The bottom of a check always contains three separate number sequences in a specific order from left to right. Understanding what each one represents helps you avoid confusion when you need to provide banking information.
The first group (on the far left) is your bank's routing number. This nine-digit code tells the banking system which financial institution holds your account. The routing number is the same for all customers at your bank, though some large banks have multiple routing numbers for different regions or account types.
The second group (in the middle) is your account number. This is unique to you and identifies your individual checking account. No other customer at your bank has this exact number.
The third group (on the far right) is the check number. This is simply a sequential identifier for that particular check. It helps you track which checks you have written and matches the check number printed in the upper right corner of the check itself.
Why the order matters when you are providing banking details
When you give someone your banking information, the order is always routing number first, then account number. This matters because the two numbers serve different purposes in the banking system. Your bank uses the routing number to locate the correct financial institution, and then uses your account number to find your specific account within that institution.
If you reverse the numbers or provide them out of order, the transaction will fail or be sent to the wrong account. When you set up direct deposit with an employer, for example, you will typically fill out a form that has separate boxes for routing number and account number. Putting the account number in the routing number box will cause the payment to be rejected.
Some online payment systems ask you to enter both numbers together without spaces or symbols. In that case, enter the routing number first, followed immediately by the account number. For instance, if your routing number is 121000248 and your account number is 987654321, you would enter 121000248987654321.
Finding your account number if you do not have a check
If you have not ordered checks yet or do not have one handy, you can find your account number through several other methods. The fastest way is to log into your online banking portal — your account number is usually displayed on the main dashboard or in the account details section.
You can also find it on your monthly bank statement, typically printed near the top or in the account information section. If you have a debit card, your account number may be printed on the back or side of the card, though not all banks include it there.
Calling your bank's customer service line is another reliable option. Have your Social Security number and photo ID information ready, and the representative will provide both your routing number and account number over the phone. This method works even if you are not currently logged into your account.
What not to do with your account number
Your account number is sensitive information that you should protect like you would protect your Social Security number. Never write your full account number on the memo line of a check — anyone who sees that check can read it. If you need to reference an account or invoice on a check, use only the last four digits or a reference code instead.
Do not share your account number with someone unless you have initiated the transaction and trust the recipient. Scammers sometimes call or email claiming to need your account number to verify your identity or process a refund. Legitimate banks and government agencies will never ask you to provide your account number unsolicited.
When you provide your account number online, make sure you are on a secure website. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar and verify that the URL begins with https rather than http. If you are unsure whether a website is legitimate, contact your bank directly using the phone number on your bank card or statement rather than a number provided in an email or pop-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank, while your account number identifies your specific account at that bank. Both appear at the bottom of your check, but they are separate numbers that serve different purposes in the banking system.
Can someone access my account if they have my account number?
Your account number alone is not enough to access your account or withdraw money. A person would also need your PIN, password, or other verification. However, you should still treat your account number as private information and not share it unnecessarily.
Why do different checks from the same account have different numbers on the right?
The number on the right is your check number, which is unique to each individual check. It helps you track which checks you have written. Your routing number and account number stay the same on every check from your account.
What if I cannot find the numbers at the bottom of my check?
If the numbers are not printed or are too faded to read, contact your bank. They can provide your routing and account numbers by phone, email, or through your online banking portal. You can also order new checks if your current ones are damaged or illegible.
Do I need my account number to deposit a check?
No. When you deposit a check into your own account, you only need to sign the back and provide it to your bank or ATM. Your account number is needed when someone else is sending money to your account, such as an employer setting up direct deposit.