The account number is the second set of digits at the bottom of your check, between the routing number and the check number
Look at the bottom left of any check. You will see three groups of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink. The first group (usually nine digits) is your routing number. The second group is your account number. The third group, on the far right, is the check number.
Your account number typically runs between 10 and 12 digits, though the length varies by bank. It identifies your specific checking account at your bank. You need this number when you set up direct deposit, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive wire transfers.
The account number appears in the same place on every check from your account. If you have multiple checking accounts at the same bank, each one has its own account number, and each will print on its own set of checks.
Key Takeaways
- The account number is the middle set of digits at the bottom of your check, printed 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.
- The account number identifies your specific checking account and stays the same on every check you write from that account.
- 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, as it can be used to set up unauthorized transfers or payments.
Reading the numbers in the correct order
The three groups of numbers at the bottom of a check always appear in the same order from left to right: routing number, account number, check number. This order is standardized across all U.S. banks.
The routing number comes first and identifies which bank or credit union holds your account. The account number comes second and identifies which account within that bank is yours. The check number comes last and identifies which individual check this is from your checkbook.
If you are unsure which group is which, remember that the check number is always the shortest (usually three or four digits) and appears on the right side. The routing number is always nine digits. Everything in between is your account number.
Other places to find your account number
You do not need a physical check to find your account number. Your bank prints it in several other places you can access more easily.
Your bank statement — whether printed or online — shows your account number at the top or in a header section. Your online banking portal displays it in your account settings or account overview page. Your debit card may print it on the back or front, though not all banks do this. You can also call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card and ask them to read it to you over the phone.
If you have set up direct deposit through an employer or government program, the confirmation email or letter usually includes your account number. The same is true for automatic bill payments you have already set up with utilities or other services.
What your account number is used for
Your account number is required for any transaction that moves money into or out of your checking account without a physical check. Direct deposit from your employer, Social Security, tax refunds, or unemployment benefits all need your account number and routing number to reach your account.
Automatic bill payments to utilities, insurance companies, loan servicers, and other creditors require your account number. Wire transfers — whether you are sending money or receiving it — use your account number to route the funds to the correct account. Some businesses also ask for your account number when you pay by phone or online.
Government refunds, stimulus payments, and other federal or state payments also use your account number. If you are waiting for a tax refund or other government payment and you provided your bank details, the payment will arrive through your account number.
Keeping your account number secure
Your account number is not as sensitive as your PIN or password, but you should still protect it. Anyone with your account number and routing number can attempt to set up unauthorized transfers or automatic payments from your account.
Do not write your account number on envelopes or postcards. Do not text it or email it unless you initiated the contact with a business you trust. When you provide it over the phone, make sure you called the business directly using a number from their official website or your statement — not a number from an email or text message.
If you suspect someone has used your account number without permission, contact your bank immediately. Banks can reverse unauthorized transactions and issue you a new account number if needed, though this means you will need new checks printed and will have to update any automatic payments you have set up.
Account numbers for different account types
Checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts all have separate account numbers at your bank. If you have multiple checking accounts, each one has its own number. The account number printed on your checks corresponds only to that specific checking account.
When you set up direct deposit or automatic payments, make sure you are using the account number for the account where you want the money to go. Using the wrong account number will send the payment to the wrong place, and it can take several days to recover the funds.
If you are not sure which account number belongs to which account, log into your online banking portal and look at each account's details, or call your bank and ask them to confirm which number goes with which account.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
If you do not have a check and cannot access your online banking portal, your bank can provide your account number in minutes. Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or the number listed on your most recent bank statement.
Have your Social Security number and a form of ID ready when you call. The bank will verify your identity and read your account number to you. Some banks also allow you to look up your account number through their mobile app if you have one installed.
If you have lost access to your online banking and do not have your debit card, visit a branch in person with a photo ID. A teller can print your account number for you or write it down on a piece of paper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank; your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Both numbers appear at the bottom of your check, but they are separate. You need both numbers to set up direct deposit or wire transfers.
Can someone access my account with just my account number?
They cannot log into your online banking with only your account number, but they may be able to set up unauthorized transfers or automatic payments if they also have your routing number. Contact your bank immediately if you think someone has misused your account number.
Do I need to memorize my account number?
No. You can look it up on a check, your statement, or your online banking portal whenever you need it. Most people do not memorize it. Keep it written down in a safe place or know where to find it quickly when you need it.
Will my account number change if I get new checks?
No. Your account number stays the same for the life of your account, even if you order new checks multiple times. The account number printed on your new checks will be identical to the one on your old checks.
What if the numbers at the bottom of my check are hard to read?
Contact your bank and ask them to confirm your account number over the phone. Do not guess or try to fill in missing digits. An incorrect account number will send money to the wrong place, and recovery can take days.