A checking account has two main numbers you need to know
Your checking account uses two separate numbers: a routing number and an account number. The routing number identifies your bank or credit union. The account number identifies your specific account at that institution. Together, they form the complete address for your money.
You'll see both numbers at the bottom of your checks, printed in a specific order. The routing number comes first (usually nine digits), followed by your account number (typically ten to twelve digits, though this varies by bank). A third set of numbers on your check — the check number itself — is separate and just tracks individual checks you write.
When you set up direct deposit, wire money, or give someone your banking information for a payment, you'll need to provide both numbers. Giving only one is like giving someone half an address — the mail won't arrive.
Key Takeaways
- Your routing number (nine digits) identifies your specific bank or credit union; your account number (usually ten to twelve digits) identifies your account within that bank.
- Both numbers appear at the bottom of your checks in order: routing number first, then account number, then check number.
- Direct deposit, wire transfers, and bill payments all require both your routing number and account number to reach the correct account.
- The routing number stays the same for all accounts at your bank; the account number is unique to each individual account you hold there.
Where to find your routing number
Your routing number is a nine-digit code specific to your bank or credit union branch. You can find it in several places. The easiest is the bottom left corner of any check you have — it's the first set of numbers printed there. If you don't have checks handy, log into your online banking portal; most banks display it under account information or settings.
You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask for your routing number. Have your account number ready when you call. If you know your bank's name and location, you can search for the routing number on the Federal Reserve's routing number database or on your bank's website directly.
Some banks have multiple routing numbers depending on which branch you opened your account at or which service you're using. If you're setting up direct deposit or a wire transfer, confirm with your employer or the receiving institution that you have the correct routing number for that specific transaction type.
Where to find your account number
Your account number is printed on the bottom of your checks, right after the routing number. It's usually ten to twelve digits long, though the length varies by bank. You can also find it on your bank statements, in your online banking dashboard, or by calling your bank's customer service line.
Your account number is unique to you at that bank. If you have multiple accounts — a checking account and a savings account, for example — each one has its own account number. Never share your full account number with someone you don't trust, and be cautious about typing it into unfamiliar websites.
Why banks use two numbers instead of one
Using two numbers instead of one allows the banking system to route money efficiently across thousands of institutions. The routing number acts like a postal code for your bank — it tells the payment system which bank to send the money to. The account number acts like your street address — it tells that specific bank which account within their system should receive the funds.
This two-part system also protects you. If someone has only your routing number, they can't access your account — they need both pieces of information. It's the same reason you need both a ZIP code and a street address to receive mail; one alone isn't enough.
What the check number is and how it differs
The check number is a third set of numbers on your check, usually printed in the top right corner and again at the bottom. This number is just for your records and your bank's records — it tracks which individual check you wrote. Check numbers start at 1001 (or sometimes 101) when you order a new checkbook and increment by one for each check.
The check number is not part of your banking information and is never needed for direct deposit, wire transfers, or online bill payments. It's purely for reconciliation — so you can match the check you wrote to the transaction that appears on your statement. If you lose a check or need to stop payment on one, you'll reference the check number when you contact your bank.
How to use your routing and account numbers safely
Your routing number is generally safe to share — it's public information and appears on your checks, which you give to people regularly. Your account number is more sensitive. Share it only with people and organizations you trust, such as your employer (for direct deposit), your bank, or established companies you're paying.
When you provide both numbers for a transaction, verify you're using a secure connection. If you're entering them into a website, check that the URL starts with "https://" (the "s" means secure) and that you recognize the organization. Never email your account number to someone who requests it unsolicited.
If you suspect someone has your account number and you didn't authorize it, contact your bank immediately. Most banks can issue you a new account number and transfer your existing balance to it, though this process takes a few business days.
International transfers and SWIFT codes
If you're sending money internationally or receiving it from abroad, you may need additional information beyond your routing and account numbers. Many international transfers require a SWIFT code (also called a BIC code), which identifies your bank to the international banking system.
Your bank can provide your SWIFT code if you ask. Some banks also use an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) for transfers within Europe and some other regions. These codes work alongside your routing and account numbers to ensure money reaches the right bank in the right country. Ask your bank which codes you need for the specific country you're sending to or receiving from.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone access my account with just my routing number?
No. A routing number alone cannot access your account — it only identifies which bank to contact. Someone would need both your routing number and your account number to transfer money or set up a transaction. Your routing number is public information and appears on every check you write.
Do all accounts at the same bank share the same routing number?
Usually yes, but not always. Most accounts at the same bank branch share one routing number. However, some large banks or credit unions have multiple routing numbers depending on the branch or service. If you're unsure, ask your bank or check your account statements.
What if I give someone the wrong account number?
If you provide an incorrect account number, the money will go to a different account at your bank (if the number exists) or the transaction will be rejected. Contact your bank immediately if this happens. They can sometimes retrieve the funds, but it's faster to get the correct number before the transaction processes.
How many digits should my account number have?
Most account numbers are ten to twelve digits, but this varies by bank. Some banks use shorter numbers, others use longer ones. Check your checks or your bank statement to see how many digits your specific account number has.
Do I need my check number for direct deposit or bill payments?
No. Direct deposit and bill payments need only your routing number and account number. The check number is only for tracking individual checks you write and is not part of your banking information for electronic transactions.