Where Is the Account Number on a Check? Here’s How To Find Your Checking Account Number Fast
Updated March 22, 2024 at 10:35 am
There are a lot of good reasons to know your checking account number. If your employer uses direct deposit, for example, you may need to provide your checking account number as part of the onboarding process. You may also need to provide your checking account number if you pay your taxes online or make ACH payments that come directly out of your checking account.
That said, you don’t need to have your checking account number memorized. It’s easy to find the account number on a check—once you know where to look.
Here’s how to find your checking account number on a check, in an online bank account or within your banking app.
What Is an Account Number?
A checking account number identifies the bank account you’re using to make or deposit payments. This allows payment processing services to quickly manage your transactions, ensuring your debits and credits come in and out of the correct accounts.
In most cases, you’ll be asked to provide your checking account number along with your bank routing number. The routing number identifies the bank, and the account number identifies the specific account within the bank.
Where Is the Account Number on a Check?
The account number on a check is found at the bottom of the check, between the routing number and the check number.
These numbers are often printed very closely together, but it’s easy to tell them apart if you know what to look for. The routing number is always first, and it’s exactly nine digits long. The checking number is in the middle, and it is often preceded by a series of zeros that serve as placeholders. The check number is on the far right, and it should be the shortest of the three numbers.
Here’s a quick visual guide to help you find the account number on a check:
How To Find the Account Number on a Check
In a Checkbook
If you have a checkbook handy, it’s easy to find the account number on a check. Your checking account number can be found at the bottom of your check, between the routing number and the check number. You may have to look carefully since the routing number and the account number are often printed very closely together. These numbers are often separated by a vertical line and a colon, making it easier for you to determine where the routing number ends and the account number begins.
Online or In-App
If you use online banking, you can quickly find your account number by logging in to your online account or opening your banking app. Depending on how your online account is set up, you may be able to see your checking account number when you open your checking account information. If the account number isn’t immediately visible, look for the option to view “account information” or “additional details.”
On Your Bank Account Statement
Many people don’t realize that their checking account number is printed on every bank account statement. Whether you get your bank account statements in the mail or online, you can often find your checking account number at the top of your statement’s listed checking account transactions.
By Calling Customer Service
If you’re still unsure how to find your checking account number, you can always call your bank’s customer service department. Be prepared to provide information that can prove your identity, such as your address or Social Security number.
Where Is the Routing Number on a Check?
The routing number identifies the bank you are using and can be found on the bottom left-hand side of every check. Unlike the checking account number, which may have as many as 17 digits, the routing number is exactly nine digits long.
If you’re having trouble finding the routing number on the bottom of your check, you can always log in to your online account or open your mobile app, both of which should make your routing number easily available. If you are still unsure of your bank routing number, you can contact your bank’s customer service department.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Digits Is a Checking Account Number?
Checking account numbers vary in length. Some checking account numbers are only eight to 12 digits long, while others may have as many as 17 digits. In some cases, you may see a series of zeros in front of your checking account number. These are called “leading zeros” and serve as placeholders. They are not part of your checking account number.
What’s the Difference Between a Routing Number, a Checking Account Number and a Check Number?
The routing number identifies the bank. The checking account number identifies the unique checking account within the bank. The check number identifies the specific check you are using.
How Do You Find Your Check Number?
Your check number can be found at the bottom of each check. The check number is on the far right-hand side following the routing number and the account number. Each check has a different check number, and these numbers are generally sequential. Check 101 should be followed by check 102, and so on.
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