The routing number is the nine-digit code on the left side of the bottom line; your account number is the longer code in the middle
Every check has three sets of numbers printed along the bottom in magnetic ink. The routing number — nine digits — sits on the far left. The account number — usually ten to twelve digits — sits in the middle. A third number on the right is your check number. You need the routing and account numbers when you set up direct deposit, authorize automatic payments, or receive a wire transfer.
The numbers are always in the same order on every check from your account, so you only have to find them once. If you do not have a physical check, your bank can provide both numbers by phone, through your online banking portal, or on a statement.
Key Takeaways
- The routing number (nine digits) appears first on the bottom line of a check, followed by your account number (ten to twelve digits) in the middle.
- Both numbers are printed in the lower left corner in a special magnetic ink format that machines can read.
- You can find these numbers on a bank statement, through your bank's website or app, or by calling your bank directly.
- Never share your account number with anyone except your employer, a business you are paying, or your own bank.
Reading the numbers from a physical check
Hold a check and look at the bottom left corner. You will see a series of numbers printed in a darker, slightly raised font. These are printed in MICR format (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition), which allows bank machines to read them automatically.
From left to right, the order is always: routing number, account number, check number. The routing number is always nine digits. Your account number length varies by bank — most are ten to twelve digits, but some are longer. The check number on the far right is usually four digits and matches the number printed in the upper right corner of the check.
If the numbers are hard to read because the check is old, faded, or damaged, do not guess. Contact your bank instead; they can confirm both numbers in seconds.
Finding routing and account numbers without a check
Log into your online banking portal or mobile app. Most banks display your account number prominently on the dashboard or in an "Account Details" section. The routing number is usually listed there as well, sometimes labeled as "ABA routing number" or "bank routing number."
If you cannot find them online, call your bank's customer service line — the number is on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. Have your account number or card ready, and ask for both your routing number and account number. They will read them to you over the phone.
You can also find your routing number using your bank's name and location on the American Bankers Association (ABA) routing number search tool, though you will still need to confirm your account number with your bank directly.
What the routing number tells you
The routing number identifies your specific bank branch or the Federal Reserve processing center that handles your account. It is not secret — it is printed on every check you write. The routing number changes only if you move your account to a different bank or branch.
Different branches of the same bank may have different routing numbers. If you have accounts at multiple branches, each account may have its own routing number. When you set up direct deposit or automatic payments, use the routing number that corresponds to the branch where your account is held.
What the account number tells you
Your account number is unique to you at that bank. It identifies which specific account the money should go to or come from. Unlike the routing number, your account number should be treated as sensitive information — do not share it with anyone except your employer (for direct deposit), a business you are paying, or your bank itself.
Your account number stays the same as long as you keep the account open. If you close the account and open a new one at the same bank, you will receive a new account number.
Using routing and account numbers safely
You will need to provide both numbers when you set up direct deposit with your employer, authorize an automatic bill payment, or receive a wire transfer from someone else. In each case, you are giving permission for money to move into or out of that specific account at that specific bank.
Sharing your account number with the wrong person or business can result in unauthorized withdrawals. Before you give out your account number, confirm that you are dealing with a legitimate business — call the company directly using a phone number from their official website, not from an email or text message.
If you suspect someone has your account number and may try to withdraw money without permission, contact your bank immediately. They can monitor your account, flag suspicious activity, and in some cases reverse unauthorized transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone steal money from my account if they only have my routing and account number?
Yes, it is possible. With both numbers, someone can set up an unauthorized automatic withdrawal or attempt an ACH transfer. Contact your bank right away if you believe your account number has been compromised. Your bank can place a fraud alert on your account and reverse unauthorized transfers.
Are routing numbers the same for all branches of my bank?
No. Different branches often have different routing numbers, even within the same bank. Use the routing number for the specific branch where your account is held. If you are unsure which routing number is correct, call your bank or check your statement.
What if I do not have any checks?
You can find both numbers through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service. Many banks also print these numbers on statements. If you need a physical check for reference, you can order new checks from your bank.
Do I need both numbers for direct deposit?
Yes. Your employer needs both your routing number and account number to set up direct deposit. They use the routing number to find your bank and the account number to deposit your paycheck into the correct account.
What if the numbers on my check do not match what my bank told me?
Contact your bank immediately. Mismatched numbers could indicate a printing error on the check, a problem with your account, or fraud. Your bank can issue you corrected checks and confirm which numbers are correct for your account.