A checking account has two main numbers you need to know

Your checking account has a routing number and an account number. The routing number identifies your bank or credit union — it's the same for everyone at that institution. Your account number is unique to you and identifies which specific account the money goes to. Together, they make sure a payment reaches the right place.

You'll see these numbers printed at the bottom of your checks, and you'll need both when setting up direct deposit, paying bills online, or receiving wire transfers. Some banks also use a third identifier called a check number for tracking individual checks you write, but that's separate from the core two.

Key Takeaways

  • Your routing number is nine digits and identifies your specific bank or credit union; your account number is typically 10 to 12 digits and identifies your specific account within that institution.
  • Both numbers appear at the bottom left of your checks in a specific order: routing number first, then account number, then check number.
  • You need both numbers to set up direct deposit, authorize automatic payments, or receive wire transfers from another bank.
  • If you lose your checks or need these numbers for online banking, you can find them through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service.

Where to find your routing and account numbers

The easiest place to locate both numbers is the bottom left corner of any check you have. The routing number comes first (nine digits), followed by your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits), then the check number on the far right. The numbers are printed in a special magnetic ink that machines can read.

If you don't have checks or can't read them clearly, log into your bank's website or mobile app — both numbers appear in the account details or settings section. You can also call your bank's customer service line and provide your name and account information; they'll read both numbers to you over the phone. Credit unions follow the same process.

Why banks use a routing number and account number separately

The routing number tells the banking system which institution to send money to. Without it, a payment wouldn't know whether to go to Bank of America, Wells Fargo, your local credit union, or any of the thousands of other financial institutions in the country. The Federal Reserve assigns each bank and credit union a unique nine-digit routing number.

Your account number then tells that specific bank which of its many customer accounts should receive the money. A large bank might have millions of customers, so the account number narrows it down to yours alone. Using both numbers together prevents money from going to the wrong bank or the wrong person at the right bank.

What the check number is and when you need it

The check number is the third set of digits on your checks, printed on the far right. It's a sequential identifier for each individual check you write — your first check might be #1001, the next #1002, and so on. Banks use check numbers to track which checks have cleared and to help you reconcile your account.

You don't need the check number for direct deposit, wire transfers, or most online bill payments. It's mainly for your own record-keeping when you write physical checks. If you're setting up automatic payments or receiving money electronically, ignore the check number and use only the routing and account numbers.

How many digits each number should have

A routing number is always exactly nine digits. If you see fewer or more, you've copied it wrong or you're looking at the wrong set of numbers. An account number is typically 10 to 12 digits, though this varies slightly by bank — some use 10, others use 12. A check number is usually four digits but can vary.

If you're entering these numbers online and the system rejects them, double-check the digit count. A common mistake is accidentally including a space or punctuation mark, or misreading a zero as the letter O. Copy the numbers slowly and compare them twice before submitting.

When you need both numbers versus just one

Direct deposit requires both your routing number and account number so the employer's bank knows exactly where to send your paycheck. Wire transfers also need both. Setting up automatic bill payments through your bank's website typically requires both as well.

Some situations need only the routing number — for example, if you're ordering new checks, the printer needs to know which bank to print the routing number for, but they'll get your account number from your bank directly. When in doubt, provide both numbers; it's safer and faster than guessing which one is needed.

What to do if you can't find your numbers

Call your bank or credit union's customer service number, which is usually on the back of your debit card or on their website. Have your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number ready — they'll ask for these to verify your identity before reading your numbers aloud.

You can also visit a branch in person with your ID and ask a teller to write down both numbers for you. If you're setting up direct deposit for work, your HR department can often help you locate them or walk you through finding them online. Many employers have seen this question hundreds of times and can point you in the right direction quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, if you trust the person or organization. Your routing number is public information — it's printed on every check. Your account number is semi-private; giving it to your employer, your bank, or a utility company for direct deposit or automatic payments is standard and safe. Never give these numbers to someone who contacts you unexpectedly claiming to be from your bank.

Do I need a routing number if I'm transferring money within the same bank?

No. Transfers between your own accounts at the same bank use only your account number. You need the routing number only when money is moving between different banks or credit unions.

What if my routing number changes?

Routing numbers rarely change, but if your bank merges with another or restructures, it's possible. Your bank will notify you and provide a new routing number. Any checks you have will still work because they're tied to your account, not the routing number alone, though it's safer to order new checks with the updated number.

Can someone steal money using just my routing and account number?

Theoretically, yes — they could attempt an unauthorized transfer or debit. This is why you should treat your account number as private and only share it with trusted organizations. If you suspect fraud, contact your bank immediately; they can freeze your account and investigate unauthorized transactions.

Do credit unions use routing numbers the same way as banks?

Yes. Credit unions have routing numbers assigned by the Federal Reserve just like banks do, and they work identically. Your credit union account number functions the same way as a bank account number. The process for finding and using both numbers is the same.