The account number is the second set of digits on the bottom of your check, between the routing number and the check number
When you look at the bottom left of a check, you see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group is your routing number (nine digits). The second group is your account number (typically 10 to 12 digits, though this varies by bank). The third group, on the far right, is the check number.
Your account number identifies your specific deposit account at your bank. It is not the same as your card number, and it is not the same as your routing number. The routing number tells the banking system which bank to send the money to; the account number tells that bank which account within the bank should receive it.
The account number appears in the same place on every check from your account. If you order new checks, the account number will be the same unless you close the account or open a new one.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the middle set of digits on the bottom of your check, between the routing number and the check number.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, but the exact length depends on your bank.
- You need your account number when setting up direct deposit, arranging wire transfers, or giving payment instructions to employers or creditors.
- The account number on your check is the same as the account number you can find in your online banking portal or on your bank statement.
Why you need your account number and when to share it
You will need your account number in several common situations. Employers ask for it to set up direct deposit of your paycheck. Creditors and service providers (utilities, insurance, loan companies) ask for it when you authorize them to withdraw payments from your account. Government agencies ask for it when sending refunds or benefit payments.
It is safe to share your account number with these organizations because they also need your routing number to complete a transaction, and they need authorization from you. The account number alone, without the routing number and without your permission, cannot be used to take money from your account.
You should not write your account number on a check you mail to someone, because a mailed check is less secure than other methods. If you need to give payment instructions by mail, use a separate form or letter, not the check itself.
How to read the numbers on the bottom of your check
The bottom of a check contains what is called the MICR line (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition). This line is printed in special ink that machines can read automatically when checks are processed.
From left to right, you will see:
- Routing number (9 digits) — identifies your bank
- Account number (10 to 12 digits) — identifies your account
- Check number (4 to 5 digits) — identifies this specific check
The check number also appears in the top right corner of the check in larger print. The routing and account numbers appear only on the MICR line at the bottom.
Finding your account number if you do not have a check
If you do not have a check in front of you, you can find your account number in several other places. Log into your online banking portal or mobile app — your account number is usually displayed on the account overview or account details page. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask; they will verify your identity and read it to you. Your bank statement (paper or electronic) also lists your account number.
If you are setting up direct deposit or making a payment and do not have your account number memorized, any of these methods will get you the information in a few minutes.
Account numbers and security
Your account number is not a secret in the same way your PIN or password is. It appears on every check you write and on statements you may share with accountants or financial advisors. However, you should not post it on social media or share it with people you do not know.
If someone has only your account number and routing number but not your permission, they cannot withdraw money from your account. Banks require additional verification — usually a signature, a PIN, or online authorization — before processing a transaction. If you notice unauthorized activity on your account, contact your bank immediately.
What to do if your account number changes
Your account number stays the same for as long as you keep the account open. If you close your account and open a new one at the same bank, you will receive a new account number. If you switch banks entirely, you will have a new account number and a new routing number.
When you close an account, inform anyone who regularly withdraws from it — your employer (for direct deposit), your creditors (for automatic payments), and any government agencies sending you payments. You will need to provide your new account number and routing number so payments continue without interruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my debit card number?
No. Your debit card number is a separate 16-digit number printed on the front of your card. Your account number is on the bottom of your checks. They are linked to the same account, but they are different numbers used for different purposes.
Can someone steal money using just my account number?
Not without additional information and authorization. A thief would need your routing number as well, and your bank would still require a signature, PIN, or online approval before processing a withdrawal. If you suspect fraud, contact your bank right away.
What if I cannot read the numbers on the bottom of my check?
Call your bank or log into your online account. Your account number is listed in your account details. You can also order new checks if the current ones are too worn or faded to read clearly.
Do I need both my routing number and account number to receive a payment?
Yes. Anyone sending you money via direct deposit or bank transfer needs both numbers. The routing number directs the money to your bank; the account number directs it to your specific account within that bank.