Your account number is the second set of digits printed on the bottom left of your check, after the routing number
The bottom of a check contains three separate numbers in magnetic ink, read left to right: the routing number (nine digits), your account number (typically 10 to 12 digits, but varies by bank), and the check number (usually four to five digits). Your account number identifies which specific account at your bank the check is drawn from. It is not the same as your routing number, which identifies the bank itself.
The account number appears in the same line as the routing number, separated by a colon or space. On most checks, it comes immediately after the routing number and before the check number. If you are looking at a check and see three distinct number groups at the bottom, the middle one is your account number.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the second set of digits on the bottom of a check, positioned between the routing number and the check number.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, though the exact length depends on your bank.
- You need your account number when setting up direct deposit, making wire transfers, or providing banking details to employers or other organizations.
- Your account number appears only on checks from that specific account—if you have multiple accounts at the same bank, each has its own account number.
How the three numbers on a check are arranged
The magnetic ink line at the bottom of a check always follows the same order: routing number, account number, check number. Each number serves a different purpose in processing the check. The routing number tells the banking system which bank to send the check to. Your account number tells that bank which of its accounts to pull the money from. The check number is a reference for you and your bank to track individual checks.
The spacing and formatting can vary slightly between banks. Some print the numbers with colons between them, others with spaces. Some banks print the account number in a slightly different font or position, but it will always be the middle set of digits in that line. If you are unsure which number is which, your bank's website or a call to customer service can confirm.
Why you need to know your account number
You will need your account number for several common banking tasks. Employers use it to set up direct deposit of your paycheck. Creditors and service providers use it to collect automatic payments from your account. If you are sending or receiving a wire transfer, you will provide your account number to the sending bank. Mortgage lenders, insurance companies, and utility providers often ask for it as well.
Having your account number handy saves time when you call your bank or fill out forms online. You can write it down and keep it in a safe place, or simply refer to a check when you need it. Do not share your account number with anyone you do not trust, as it can be used to set up unauthorized transfers or payments.
Account numbers for different account types at the same bank
If you have more than one account at the same bank—a checking account and a savings account, for example—each account has its own unique account number. Only checks drawn on your checking account will show that account's number. Your savings account will not have checks, so you will not see its account number printed on paper unless you request a statement or log into your online banking.
When you need to move money between your own accounts or set up transfers, make sure you are using the correct account number for the account you want to move money from or to. Using the wrong account number will send the money to the wrong place.
Where to find your account number if you do not have a check
If you do not have a check in front of you, you can find your account number in several other places. Log into your bank's website or mobile app—your account number usually appears on the account overview or dashboard. Call your bank's customer service line and provide your name and identification; they will give you the number over the phone. You can also visit a branch in person and ask a teller to provide it.
Your monthly bank statement also lists your account number, usually at the top of the first page. If you have set up direct deposit with an employer, that employer's payroll system may display your account number in your employee profile. Any of these sources will give you the correct number without needing to write a check.
What account numbers look like across different banks
Account numbers vary in length depending on the bank. Most are between 10 and 12 digits, but some banks use shorter or longer numbers. Wells Fargo account numbers are typically 10 digits. Chase account numbers are usually 10 digits. Bank of America uses 10 digits. Smaller regional banks may use different lengths. The length does not matter for your purposes—whatever length your bank uses is correct for your account.
The account number is always printed in the same magnetic ink as the routing number, making it machine-readable for check processing. It will never contain letters, only digits. If you see letters mixed in with numbers at the bottom of a check, those are not part of the account number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my debit card number?
No. Your debit card number and your account number are different. The debit card number is printed on the front of the card and is used for card transactions. Your account number is printed on the bottom of checks and is used for bank transfers and direct deposits. You should never share either number carelessly, but they serve different purposes.
Can someone use my account number to steal money from my account?
Your account number alone is not enough to withdraw money or make unauthorized transfers. A person would also need your routing number and typically some form of authorization or access to your online banking. That said, do not share your account number with strangers or untrusted websites. Only provide it to employers, banks, and established organizations you know.
What if I cannot find the account number on my check?
If the magnetic ink at the bottom of the check is faded or damaged, the numbers may be hard to read. Contact your bank directly—they can confirm your account number from your name and identification. You can also log into your online banking account, which will display your account number clearly.
Do I need both my routing number and account number for direct deposit?
Yes. Direct deposit requires both numbers. The routing number tells the employer's bank where to send the money, and the account number tells your bank which of your accounts to deposit it into. Both numbers together ensure the money reaches the correct place.