Where Is The Account Number and Routing Number On A Check?

Your account number is found at the bottom of a check. It’s the second set of numbers, between the nine-digit routing number and the check number.

Whether you’re setting up direct deposit for your paycheck or paying bills online, knowing where to find your account and routing numbers on a check is essential. These numbers work together to identify both your bank and your specific account, ensuring your money goes to the right place every time.

What is the account number on a check?

Your account number is a unique set of digits assigned to your individual bank account when you opened it. It tells the receiving bank exactly which account to send money to or pull money from.

Account numbers typically range from 8 to 12 digits, though the exact length varies by bank. Each account has its own unique number — so if you have both a personal checking account and a business checking account at the same bank, they’ll have different account numbers.

Your account number is private. Unlike your routing number, it should only be shared through secure, verified channels when setting up legitimate banking transactions.

Why accuracy matters: A single wrong digit can send your paycheck to the wrong account or cause a bill payment to fail, which could result in late fees or returned-payment charges.

What is the routing number on a check?

A routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank or credit union within the U.S. financial system. Think of it as your bank’s address in the banking network — it tells other institutions where to send or receive money.

The routing number is always the first set of numbers at the bottom left of a check. It’s exactly nine digits long, and it’s the same for every customer at your bank or credit union (though large banks with multiple regions may have more than one routing number).

Routing numbers are used for check processing, wire transfers, ACH payments and direct deposits. Unlike account numbers, routing numbers are public information — you can find your bank’s routing number on their website or by calling customer service.

Account number vs. routing number: What’s the difference?

These two numbers serve different purposes, and you’ll usually need both for any financial transaction.

• Routing number: Identifies the bank. Nine digits. Same for all customers at that bank (or regional branch). Public information. Think of it as the bank’s address.

• Account number: Identifies your specific account at that bank. Typically 8–12 digits. Unique to you. Private information. Think of it as your apartment number within that address.

Together, the routing number directs the transaction to the right bank, and the account number directs it to the right account within that bank.

How to find your account and routing numbers without a check

If you don’t have a check handy, several other methods can help you locate these important numbers.

1. Bank statements

Your account number appears prominently on both paper and electronic bank statements, usually at the top of the document. Look for “Account Number” followed by your unique digits. The routing number may also be listed, often in the account details section.

2. Online and mobile banking

Sign into your bank’s online banking portal or mobile app to find your account information. The numbers may be displayed in the account summary section, though some banks partially hide account numbers for security. Look for a “show” or “reveal” button to display all digits.

Savings accounts don’t typically come with checks, but they have account numbers that you can find through online banking.

3. Contact your bank directly

Customer service representatives can provide your routing and account numbers after verifying your identity with security questions. This method works well if you need the information immediately and can’t access other sources.

4. Bank’s website or app

Many banks list their routing numbers publicly on their websites. While this won’t give you your account number, it’s a quick way to confirm your bank’s routing number.

When do you need your account and routing numbers?

Understanding when you’ll need these numbers helps you prepare for various banking situations and financial transactions.

• Setting up direct deposits: Whether it’s your paycheck, government benefits or tax refunds, employers and agencies need both numbers to deposit money directly into your account. As of September 2025, the federal government no longer issues paper checks for most payments, making direct deposit the default for benefits like Social Security.
• Paying bills electronically: Online bill pay services use these numbers to withdraw payments from your account automatically.
• Electronic transfers: Moving money between accounts at different banks requires both your routing and account numbers.
• Tax payments and refunds: The IRS needs these numbers for electronic tax payments and direct deposit of refunds.
• Automatic savings transfers: Setting up recurring transfers to savings accounts or investment accounts requires both numbers.

These numbers work together to identify your bank and specific account, making sure your money moves securely and accurately. Always verify these numbers before providing them to avoid transaction errors.

Bottom line

Your account number serves as a unique identifier for your bank account, telling financial institutions exactly which account to access for transactions. Found at the bottom of checks alongside the routing number, these numbers are essential for modern banking activities like direct deposit and electronic bill payments.

Understanding where to locate your account and routing numbers — and when you’ll need them — helps you handle banking tasks efficiently and avoid costly delays.