Your account number is printed along the bottom of every personal check, typically as the second set of numbers from the left. It sits between the routing number and the check number, and you can identify it in seconds once you know what to look for.
The Three Numbers on the Bottom of a Check
Look at the bottom edge of your check and you’ll see a line of numbers printed in a blocky, slightly unusual font. This font is called MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition), and it’s designed to be read by bank processing machines. The numbers are grouped into three distinct sets, separated by small symbols that look like vertical lines or colons. Here’s what each group represents, reading left to right on a standard personal check:
- Routing number (9 digits): This identifies your bank. It’s always exactly nine digits and is usually the first group of numbers, bookended by a small symbol that looks like a vertical line with dots above and below it (the “transit” symbol).
- Account number (varies): This identifies your specific account at that bank. It’s the second group of numbers and is typically between 9 and 12 digits, though some banks use shorter or longer account numbers.
- Check number (3 to 4 digits): This matches the number printed in the upper-right corner of the check. It’s the last and shortest group.
On most personal checks, this left-to-right order holds: routing, account, check number. However, a small number of banks swap the routing number and account number, placing the account number first. If you’re unsure which is which, the routing number is always exactly nine digits. The account number varies in length, so use that as your guide.
How to Spot the Separating Symbols
The MICR line uses special symbols to mark where each number group begins and ends. You don’t need to memorize them all, but two are helpful to recognize. The transit symbol, which looks like a vertical bar flanked by two dots, brackets the routing number on both sides. The on-us symbol, which resembles a single vertical bar or pipe character, typically appears near the account number. A dash symbol may also appear within longer account numbers to separate sub-fields, but the full string of digits (including any numbers on either side of the dash) is your account number.
These symbols are what bank machines read to distinguish one number group from another. For your purposes, they serve as visual dividers. Find the transit symbols bracketing the nine-digit routing number, and the number group immediately to the right is your account number.
Leading Zeros Matter
If your account number starts with one or more zeros, include them. Banks treat “00384712” as a different account than “384712.” When you’re setting up direct deposit, linking an external account, or filling out an ACH form, always enter every digit exactly as it appears on the check, including leading zeros. Dropping them can cause payments to fail or land in the wrong place.
Finding Your Account Number Without a Check
If you don’t have a checkbook handy, there are several other ways to find the same number.
- Online banking: Log into your bank’s website, select your checking account, and look for an option labeled something like “Account Details” or “Account Numbers.” Many banks keep the full number hidden behind a “show” or “reveal” link for security.
- Mobile app: Open your bank’s app, select the account, and navigate to the account summary or details screen. The account number is usually listed near the routing number, often partially masked until you tap to reveal it.
- Bank statements: Your account number appears on every monthly statement, whether paper or electronic. It’s typically near the top of the first page, in the header area next to the word “Account.”
- Call or visit your bank: A representative can provide both your routing and account numbers after verifying your identity.
Any of these sources will give you the same account number that appears on the bottom of your checks. Use whichever is most convenient, and double-check the digits before submitting them on any form where money will move.