Your account number is printed on the bottom left of your check, after the routing number
The bottom of every check contains three sets of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink. Reading from left to right, you see the routing number first (nine digits), then your account number (usually eight to twelve digits), and finally the check number on the right. Your account number identifies which specific account at your bank the check draws from.
The account number appears between a pair of colons or symbols that look like this: :123456789:. Some banks print it more clearly than others, but it will always be in that bottom-left section, after the routing number ends.
You need this number when you set up direct deposit, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive a wire transfer. It is also what you give to your employer's payroll department or to someone paying you electronically.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number sits on the bottom of your check between the routing number and the check number, printed in magnetic ink.
- The account number is typically eight to twelve digits long and identifies your specific account at the bank.
- You can also find your account number on your bank statement, your debit card, or by logging into your bank's website or app.
- If your check is damaged or the numbers are unclear, contact your bank directly rather than guessing the number.
How to read the check bottom line correctly
The magnetic ink line at the bottom of your check follows a strict format set by the banking industry. Start from the left edge. The first nine digits are your routing number. Immediately after those nine digits, you will see your account number begin. Count the digits carefully—account numbers vary in length depending on your bank, but eight to twelve digits is standard.
The check number appears last, usually on the right side of the bottom line and also printed in the top right corner of the check itself. If you are unsure which number is which, the check number is always the shortest of the three and matches what you see printed large in the upper right.
Some checks print the account number in a slightly different location or format, especially if they are from a credit union or smaller regional bank. If the bottom line is smudged, faded, or hard to read, do not try to guess. Contact your bank and ask them to confirm your account number over the phone or through your online account.
Other places to find your account number
Your check is not the only place your account number appears. Your bank statement—whether printed or online—displays your account number at the top or in the account details section. Your debit card may also print it, though some banks omit it for security. Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for account details or account settings; your account number will be listed there.
If you have set up online banking, your account number is visible in the dashboard or under a section labeled "Account Information" or "My Accounts." This is often the fastest way to find it if your checks are not handy. You can also call your bank's customer service line and provide your name and Social Security number; they will read your account number to you over the phone.
Why banks print account numbers on checks
The account number on your check allows the banking system to route your payment to the correct account automatically. When someone deposits or processes your check, the magnetic ink reader at the bank scans those numbers and directs the money to you. Without the account number, the bank would have no way to know which of its thousands or millions of accounts should receive the funds.
The routing number tells the system which bank to send the money to; the account number tells that bank which account within the bank. Together, they form a complete address for your money. This is why both numbers must be correct for direct deposits, wire transfers, and automatic payments to work.
What to do if your account number is hard to read
Checks can become worn, faded, or damaged over time. If the magnetic ink numbers on the bottom of your check are unclear or partially illegible, do not attempt to fill in missing digits or make your best guess. A wrong account number will send money to the wrong place, and recovering it can take weeks.
Instead, contact your bank directly. You can call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. Provide your name, Social Security number, and any other verification they request. They will confirm your correct account number and can print a new set of checks if needed. Many banks also allow you to view your account number through their website or app without needing to call.
Account numbers and security
Your account number is not a secret in the way a password is. It appears on every check you write and on documents you send to employers and creditors. However, you should not share it with people you do not trust. Someone with your account number and routing number could potentially set up unauthorized automatic payments from your account.
If you are giving your account number to someone—such as your employer for direct deposit or a utility company for automatic bill pay—make sure you are dealing with a legitimate business. Verify the company's phone number or website independently rather than using contact information they provide. If you suspect unauthorized activity on your account, contact your bank immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my check number?
No. Your check number is the three or four digit number printed in the top right corner and on the bottom line. Your account number is the longer set of digits (usually eight to twelve) that appears in the middle of the bottom line. They are separate identifiers.
Can I use my account number without the routing number?
No. Both numbers are required for electronic transfers and direct deposits. The routing number identifies your bank; the account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Providing only one will cause the transaction to fail.
What if I do not have any checks?
You can find your account number on your bank statement, through your online banking portal, on your debit card (if your bank prints it there), or by calling your bank's customer service line. You do not need a physical check to locate it.
Can someone access my account with just my account number?
Your account number alone is not enough to withdraw money or make purchases. However, combined with your routing number, someone could potentially set up unauthorized automatic payments. Keep your account number reasonably private and only share it with trusted businesses you are doing transactions with.
Why do some checks have the account number in a different spot?
Credit unions and some smaller banks may format their checks slightly differently, but the account number will still appear on the bottom line in magnetic ink. If you cannot locate it in the standard position, contact your bank for clarification on where it appears on your specific checks.