Where to find both numbers on your check

Your routing number and account number are printed at the bottom left of every check you write. The routing number comes first—it is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank. Your account number follows it and is usually 10 to 12 digits long, though the length varies by bank.

The numbers appear in a specific order from left to right: routing number, then account number, then check number. All three are printed in magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) format, which means they use a special font designed to be read by both machines and people. This is why they look slightly different from the regular text on your check.

You do not need special equipment to read them. The numbers are plain text at the bottom of the check, and you can write them down or photograph them with your phone. Many people take a photo of a check to have the numbers on hand for online bill pay or direct deposit setup.

Key Takeaways

  • Your routing number (nine digits) and account number (usually 10 to 12 digits) are printed together at the bottom left of every check.
  • The routing number always comes before the account number in the MICR line at the bottom of the check.
  • If your check does not show these numbers clearly, contact your bank directly—they can provide both numbers by phone or through your online banking portal.
  • You can photograph a check to save the numbers for later use, or write them down when you need them for bill pay or direct deposit.

Why the order matters when you are reading a check

The routing number must come first because it tells the banking system which bank to send the money to. The account number comes second because it tells that specific bank which account within the bank should receive the funds. If you reverse them, the payment will fail or be sent to the wrong place.

When you set up direct deposit, online bill pay, or wire a transfer, you will be asked to enter these numbers in a specific order. The form will usually label them clearly—"routing number" and "account number"—so you know which blank to fill. Reading them left to right from the MICR line keeps you from mixing them up.

What to do if the numbers are hard to read

Older checks or checks that have been folded, wet, or handled roughly sometimes have faded or smudged MICR numbers. If you cannot read them clearly, do not guess. Call your bank's customer service line or log into your online banking account, where both numbers are usually displayed on the account overview page.

Your bank can also print a new box of checks if yours are damaged. Most banks do this at no charge if the checks are defective, though they may charge a fee if you simply want a replacement box before your current one runs out.

How banks use these numbers behind the scenes

When a check is deposited, a machine reads the MICR line and routes the payment through the Federal Reserve or a private clearing house. The routing number directs the check to your bank's processing center. The account number then directs it to your specific account within that bank.

This is why the routing number is tied to your bank's location and branch network, while the account number is unique to you. If you move to a different state and your bank has branches there, your routing number may stay the same. If you switch banks entirely, you get a new routing number and a new account number.

Routing number versus account number: what each one tells you

Your routing number identifies your financial institution in the banking system. It is the same for all customers of that bank in a given region, though large banks may have multiple routing numbers for different states or divisions. You can look up a routing number on your bank's website or by calling customer service.

Your account number is unique to you. No other person at your bank has the same account number. It stays with your account even if you move, change your address, or update your contact information. If you close the account and open a new one at the same bank, you get a new account number.

Using these numbers for common banking tasks

Direct deposit requires both numbers. Your employer or the organization sending you money needs the routing number to find your bank and the account number to deposit into your specific account. You can find both on any check you have written or received.

Wire transfers, ACH transfers, and online bill pay all use the same pair of numbers. Some banks also ask for them when you set up automatic payments to utilities or loan servicers. Having a check on hand makes this process faster because you can read both numbers from one place instead of logging in to find them separately.

What happens if someone has your routing and account number

Your routing and account numbers are not secret information—they are printed on every check you write and are visible to anyone who receives a check from you. However, having just these two numbers is not enough to drain your account or make unauthorized charges.

Banks require additional verification before processing transfers or payments from your account. They may ask for your signature, a PIN, or confirmation through your online banking portal. If you are concerned about unauthorized activity, contact your bank immediately. Most banks offer fraud protection and can reverse unauthorized transfers within a set timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find my routing and account number without a check?

Yes. Log into your online banking account and look for the account overview or account details page—both numbers are usually displayed there. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask them to provide both numbers. Have your account holder name and Social Security number ready for verification.

Do I need both numbers for direct deposit?

Yes. Your employer or the organization sending you money needs both the routing number and account number to deposit funds into your account. A check is the fastest way to find both at once, or you can get them from your bank's website or by calling customer service.

What if my bank has multiple routing numbers?

Large banks often have different routing numbers for different states or divisions. The routing number printed on your check is the correct one for your account. If you are unsure which routing number to use for a specific transaction, ask your bank—they can tell you which one applies to your situation.

Is it safe to give someone my routing and account number?

Your routing and account numbers are printed on every check you write, so they are not confidential. However, only give them to people or organizations you trust. Legitimate businesses like your employer, your bank, and utility companies will ask for these numbers. If someone unexpected asks for them, verify their identity before providing the information.

Can I use a mobile check deposit instead of writing down the numbers?

Yes. If you are depositing a check through your bank's mobile app, you do not need to write down the numbers—the app reads them automatically. However, if you need the numbers for direct deposit or bill pay setup, you will still need to find them on the check or get them from your bank.