The account number is the second set of digits at the bottom of your check
Your account number appears in the lower left section of a check, printed between two sets of numbers. The first set is your routing number (nine digits). The second set is your account number (typically 10 to 12 digits, though this varies by bank). A colon or space separates them. The account number is the one you'll need when setting up direct deposit, wire transfers, or providing banking details to an employer or government agency.
The numbers are printed in a special magnetic ink called MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition), which is why they look slightly raised or darker than the printed text above them. This formatting lets bank machines read the numbers automatically during processing.
If you're looking at a check right now, start at the bottom left corner. You'll see nine digits first (the routing number), then a colon or space, then a longer string of digits (your account number). Write down only the second string—that's what you need.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the second set of digits at the bottom left of a check, after the routing number.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, though the exact length depends on your bank.
- The numbers are printed in magnetic ink and appear slightly raised or darker than regular text.
- You'll need your account number for direct deposit, wire transfers, and other banking transactions.
- If you can't find the number on a check, your bank statement or online banking portal will display it as well.
Where the account number sits on the check
The bottom of a check contains three separate groups of numbers, read from left to right. The first group (nine digits) is the routing number. A colon or small space separates it from the second group, which is your account number. A third group appears at the far right—that's the check number, which is different from your account number.
The account number is always in the middle position. Don't confuse it with the check number printed in the upper right corner of the check or in the upper left corner—those are separate identifiers used to track individual checks, not your account itself.
How to tell if you're reading it correctly
Account numbers vary in length by bank, but most fall between 10 and 12 digits. Some banks use fewer, some use more. If you've written down a number that's only 9 digits long, you've likely grabbed the routing number instead. If you've grabbed everything including the check number on the right, you've taken too many digits.
The safest way to verify you have the right number is to compare it against your bank statement or your online banking portal. Both will display your account number clearly labeled. If the number you copied from the check matches what appears in your bank's system, you've read it correctly.
When you need your account number from a check
You'll provide your account number when setting up direct deposit for paychecks, tax refunds, or government payments like Social Security or unemployment benefits. You'll also need it for wire transfers, ACH transfers between banks, and when authorizing automatic bill payments. Some employers and government agencies ask for a voided check instead of just the number—a voided check contains all the information they need in one document.
If you're mailing a check to pay a bill or send money, you don't need to write your account number anywhere on the check itself. The routing number and account number are already printed there, and the recipient's bank will read them automatically.
What to do if you can't read the numbers on your check
If the numbers at the bottom of your check are faded, smudged, or unclear, don't guess. Instead, log into your online banking portal—your account number will be displayed there, usually on the main dashboard or in an account details section. You can also call your bank's customer service line and provide your name and other identifying information; they'll read your account number to you over the phone.
Your bank statement (whether printed or digital) also lists your account number. Look for a line that says "Account Number" or "Acct #" near the top of the statement. This is often the fastest way to find the number if you have a recent statement on hand.
Account numbers and security
Your account number is not secret in the same way a password is. It's printed on every check you write, and anyone who receives a check from you will see it. However, you should still avoid sharing your account number with people or websites you don't trust. Scammers can use an account number (combined with a routing number) to attempt unauthorized withdrawals or fraudulent transfers.
If you suspect someone has misused your account number, contact your bank immediately. Most banks can monitor your account for suspicious activity and reverse unauthorized transfers if they're caught quickly. You can also place a fraud alert with the major credit bureaus, though this is more relevant for identity theft than for account number misuse alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the account number the same as the check number?
No. The check number appears in the upper right corner and upper left corner of the check. Your account number is at the bottom left, in the middle position between the routing number and the check number. The check number identifies that specific check; the account number identifies your entire account.
Can I use a photo of a check to get my account number?
Yes, as long as the numbers at the bottom are clear and readable in the photo. The account number will be the middle set of digits. However, avoid sharing photos of checks with people you don't trust, since the image contains both your routing and account numbers.
What if my checks don't have numbers printed at the bottom?
Some specialty checks or temporary checks may not have MICR numbers printed. In that case, contact your bank directly or check your online banking portal for your account number. Your bank can also issue you a new set of checks with the numbers properly printed.
Do I need both the routing number and account number to receive a direct deposit?
Yes. Direct deposit requires both numbers. The routing number tells the sending bank which bank to send the money to; the account number tells that bank which account within the bank should receive it. Both are printed at the bottom of your check in order.
Can someone empty my account if they have my account number?
They would need both your routing number and account number, and even then, most banks require additional verification before processing large transfers. However, it's still wise to monitor your account regularly and report any suspicious activity to your bank right away.