The account number is the second set of digits on the bottom of your check, printed between the routing number and the check number
Look at the bottom left of any check. You will 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 checking account at your bank. It is unique to that account and stays the same for the life of the account. You will see this same number printed on every check from that account.
The account number is what the bank uses to know which account to pull money from when a check is deposited or cashed. Without it, the bank would not know where to send the funds, even if the routing number is correct.
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.
- The same account number appears on every check from that account.
- You need both the routing number and account number for direct deposit, wire transfers, and other electronic payments.
Why you need to know your account number
Your account number is required whenever you set up direct deposit, authorize an automatic payment, or arrange a wire transfer. Employers need it to deposit your paycheck. Utility companies need it to withdraw automatic payments. The IRS needs it if you want a tax refund sent directly to your bank account instead of by check or debit card.
You can also find your account number on your bank statement, on your debit card (though not always), or by logging into your online banking portal. If you cannot locate it on a check, call your bank's customer service line and they will provide it over the phone.
What happens if you give the wrong account number
If you provide an incorrect account number, the deposit or payment will go to the wrong account—either to another customer at your bank, to an account at a different bank, or it may be rejected entirely. This is why it is critical to double-check the number before submitting it.
If money is sent to the wrong account by mistake, contact your bank immediately. They can often trace the transaction and recover the funds, but the process takes time. For tax refunds or government payments, contact the agency that sent the money (the IRS, your state tax authority, or the Social Security Administration) and provide them with the correct account information so they can reissue the payment.
Reading the MICR line correctly
The numbers at the bottom of your check are printed in a special format called MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition). This format allows bank machines to read the numbers automatically. The digits are printed in a specific order and font so that both humans and machines can read them accurately.
When you look at the MICR line, read from left to right: routing number, account number, check number. Do not confuse the check number (which appears on the right side of the MICR line and also in the top right corner of the check) with your account number. The check number changes with each check you write; your account number does not.
Account numbers for different types of accounts
Your checking account number appears on your checks. If you also have a savings account at the same bank, that account has a different account number. Savings account numbers do not appear on checks because you do not write checks from a savings account.
If you have accounts at multiple banks, each account has its own unique account number. The routing number tells the system which bank; the account number tells the system which account at that bank. Together, they form a complete address for your money.
Keeping your account number secure
Your account number is semi-public information—it appears on every check you write, and anyone who receives a check from you can see it. However, you should still treat it with reasonable care. Do not post images of your checks on social media or email them unnecessarily.
Your account number alone cannot be used to withdraw money from your account. A thief would also need your routing number (which is also on the check) and would typically need to create fraudulent checks or set up unauthorized ACH transfers. If you suspect fraud, contact your bank immediately and they can freeze the account or issue a new account number.
Finding your account number if you do not have a check
If you have lost your checks or do not have any on hand, you can find your account number on your bank statement (usually listed at the top), in your online banking portal, on your debit card (some banks print it there, others do not), or by calling your bank's customer service line.
Your bank can provide your account number in seconds over the phone. Have your Social Security number or other identifying information ready when you call.
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. Your account number is what the bank uses internally to identify your checking account. Your debit card number is what merchants see when you swipe or insert your card. You can have the same account number for years, but your debit card number changes each time you get a new card.
Can someone steal money using just my account number?
Your account number alone is not enough to steal money. A thief would need both your routing number and account number to set up an unauthorized ACH transfer or create a fraudulent check. Even then, many banks have fraud detection systems that catch suspicious activity. If you notice unauthorized transactions, contact your bank immediately.
What if the account number on my check does not match my bank statement?
Contact your bank right away. This should not happen—your account number should be consistent across all documents. Your bank can verify which number is correct and reissue checks if needed. Do not use checks with a mismatched account number.
Do I need my account number to deposit a check at an ATM?
No. ATM check deposits read the routing and account numbers from the check itself using the MICR line. You just need to insert the check and follow the on-screen instructions. The machine reads the numbers automatically.
Will my account number change if I close and reopen my account?
Yes. When you close a checking account and open a new one, you receive a new account number. This is why it is important to update your direct deposit information with your employer and any companies that withdraw automatic payments from your account.