When you look at the bottom of a personal check, you’ll see a series of numbers printed in a blocky, machine-readable font. It might look like a random string of digits, but each group has a very specific purpose. Knowing which number is which — and what each one does — comes in handy any time you set up a direct deposit, schedule an automatic payment, send money, or just double-check your bank statements.
This guide walks through the three sets of numbers on a check: the routing number, the account number, and the check number. We’ll also cover how to find these numbers if you don’t have a paper check in front of you.
Prefer to watch first? This short video shows exactly where to find each number on a check.
The Numbers at the Bottom of a Check
Take a look at the bottom edge of any standard check. You’ll find three sets of numbers, usually separated by special symbols. Reading from left to right on most checks, they are the routing number, the account number, and the check number.
The Routing Number
The routing number is usually the first set of nine digits on the left side of the bottom of the check. It works like an address that tells the banking system where the check is coming from — think of it as the bank’s “ZIP code.” Every bank and credit union has its own unique routing number (sometimes more than one, depending on the state where you opened your account).
You’ll need the routing number whenever money moves between institutions: setting up direct deposit with an employer, paying bills electronically, wiring money, or linking your account to a payment app. It ensures your money goes to and comes from the right bank. The routing number is also called the ABA routing number or the routing transit number (RTN).
The Account Number
Right next to the routing number you’ll find your account number. It’s typically longer than the routing number — usually 10 to 12 digits, though the exact length varies by bank — and it’s unique to your specific account within that bank.
If the routing number is the address of the bank, your account number is your apartment number inside that building. When a company sets up a payment or transfer, they ask for this number to make sure they’re crediting or debiting the correct individual account. Because the account number identifies your money directly, treat it as sensitive information — only share it with trusted parties.
The Check Number
The third set of digits is usually the shortest, and it’s the check number. It simply matches the number printed in the top-right corner of the check. Its only job is to help you and the bank keep track of and reference each individual check you write.
The check number is useful for recordkeeping — logging payments in a check register, matching a check to a transaction on your statement, or stopping payment on a specific check. Unlike the routing and account numbers, the check number isn’t used to route money; it’s purely a reference.
How to Find These Numbers Without a Check
Don’t have a paper check handy? You can still find your routing and account numbers in several ways:
- Online or mobile banking: Most banks display the routing and account numbers in your account details or settings. Some show the full numbers; others reveal them after extra verification for security.
- Bank statement: Your routing number (and sometimes a partial account number) appears on your monthly statement.
- Call or visit your bank: A teller or phone representative can confirm both numbers after verifying your identity.
- Routing number lookup: A bank’s routing number is public — you can find it on the bank’s website or the Federal Reserve’s routing directory. Your account number, however, is never public.
One caution: the routing number on a paper check is for paper transactions. Some banks use a different routing number for wire transfers or ACH transfers. If you’re setting up a wire, confirm the correct routing number with your bank rather than assuming the one on your check applies.
When You’ll Actually Use These Numbers
Even as more transactions go digital, there are still plenty of everyday situations where these numbers matter:
- Setting up direct deposit for a paycheck, tax refund, or government benefit
- Arranging automatic payments for a mortgage, utility, or loan
- Linking your bank account to a payment app like Zelle, Venmo, or PayPal
- Sending or receiving a wire transfer
- Providing a voided check to a new employer or service provider
Having a clear understanding of which number is which gives you more control and confidence over your finances. The next time you have a check in hand or someone asks for your banking details, you’ll know exactly where to look and what each number means.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number the same for everyone at my bank?
Largely yes — the routing number identifies the bank, not your individual account, so customers at the same bank often share a routing number. However, large banks may use different routing numbers depending on the state where you opened your account, and they may use a separate routing number for wire transfers.
Is it safe to give out my routing and account number?
These numbers are needed for legitimate deposits and payments, so sharing them with a trusted employer, biller, or financial institution is normal. Be cautious sharing them with unknown parties, though — combined with other information, your account number can be used to set up unauthorized withdrawals. Only provide them through secure, expected channels.
Where is the account number on a check with no printed numbers?
Every standard personal check has the routing and account numbers printed in magnetic ink along the bottom. If you have a counter check or starter check from a new account, the numbers may be missing or incomplete — in that case, get your account number from online banking, a statement, or your bank directly.
The Bottom Line
The three number groups at the bottom of a check each have a clear role: the routing number identifies your bank, the account number identifies your specific account, and the check number tracks the individual check. Knowing how to read them — or where to find them when you don’t have a check — makes setting up deposits, payments, and transfers far less confusing.