The account number is the second set of digits on the bottom left of your check
Your bank account number appears in the lower left portion of any check you write, printed between two sets of numbers. It comes after the routing number and before the check number. The account number is typically 10 to 12 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank.
The bottom of a check always prints numbers in this order: routing number, account number, then check number. If you hold a check and read left to right along the bottom edge, you'll see these three groups separated by special symbols that look like colons or brackets.
Your account number stays the same for every check you order from that account. If you switch banks or open a new account, you get a new account number and new checks printed with it.
Key Takeaways
- The account number is the middle set of digits on the bottom of a check, positioned between the routing number on the left and the check number on the right.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits long, though this varies by bank and account type.
- The same account number appears on every check from that account, so you can use any check to find it.
- You can also find your account number on your bank statement, online banking portal, or by calling your bank's customer service line.
How the three numbers are arranged on a check
The bottom of a check contains three separate numbers printed in a specific order. From left to right, you see the routing number first (usually nine digits), then your account number (10 to 12 digits), then the check number (usually four digits). Each group is separated by a symbol that looks like a colon with vertical lines on both sides.
The routing number identifies which bank or credit union holds your account. The account number identifies your specific account at that bank. The check number is simply the sequential number printed on that individual check.
This arrangement is standardized across U.S. banks, so the layout is the same whether you bank at a large national chain or a small local credit union. The numbers are printed in a special magnetic ink that allows check-processing machines to read them automatically.
What to do if the numbers are hard to read
If the numbers on your check are faded, smudged, or unclear, you don't need to guess or try to read them. Your account number is printed on other documents and is available through multiple channels.
Check your most recent bank statement — your account number appears at the top or in the account information section. You can also log into your online banking portal or mobile app; your account number is usually visible on the main dashboard or in account settings. If you don't have online access, call your bank's customer service number (printed on the back of your debit card or on your statement) and ask them to read it to you.
Why you might need to provide your account number
Your account number is necessary when you set up direct deposit, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive wire transfers. You'll also need it if you're depositing a check remotely using your bank's mobile app, because the app needs to know which account to deposit the funds into.
Some situations require both your routing number and account number together — for example, when you're giving someone your banking information to send you money. Other situations, like verifying your identity with your bank, may only require the account number.
The difference between account number and routing number
The routing number and account number serve different purposes. Your routing number identifies your bank or credit union — it's the same for all customers at that institution. Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank, and it's unique to you.
Think of it this way: the routing number is like the address of a post office, and the account number is like your mailbox number at that post office. You need both pieces of information to direct money to the right place.
If you switch banks, your routing number changes but your account number at the new bank will be different too. If you open a second account at the same bank, your routing number stays the same but you get a new account number.
Finding your account number without a check
You don't need a physical check in front of you to find your account number. Your bank provides this information through several methods.
Log into your online banking account — the account number typically appears on the main page or in an "Account Information" or "Account Details" section. If you use your bank's mobile app, the account number is usually visible when you tap on your account. Your monthly bank statement also lists your account number, typically near the top of the first page.
If you need the number immediately and don't have access to online banking or a recent statement, call your bank's customer service line. You'll need to verify your identity with personal information like your Social Security number or answers to security questions, but they can provide your account number over the phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my debit card number?
No. Your debit card number is different from your account number. The card number is printed on the front of your debit card and is used for card transactions. Your account number is printed on checks and is used for bank transfers and direct deposits. You can have the same account number for years, but your debit card number changes each time you get a new card.
Can someone access my account if they know my account number?
Your account number alone is not enough to access your account or withdraw money. Banks also require your routing number, personal identification, or a PIN to authorize transactions. However, you should still treat your account number as sensitive information and avoid sharing it with people you don't trust. Only provide it to your employer, your bank, or other organizations you're actively working with.
What if I can't find my account number anywhere?
Contact your bank directly by phone or visit a branch in person. You'll need to verify your identity with a government-issued ID and possibly answer security questions. Once verified, the bank can provide your account number and print new checks if needed.
Do I need both the routing number and account number to receive a wire transfer?
Yes. To receive a wire transfer, you need to provide both your routing number and your account number. Some banks also ask for your full name and address to match against their records. Check with your bank about their specific wire transfer requirements before giving out this information.