If you’ve ever tried to set up direct deposit, pay a bill online, or transfer money between accounts, you’ve probably been asked for your routing and account numbers. These two sets of numbers are printed at the bottom of your checks, but they serve different purposes.

The routing number identifies your bank or credit union. The account number identifies your personal account within that bank. Knowing which is which can help you avoid sending money to the wrong place, or having a payment fail.

In this article, we’ll show you exactly where to find these numbers on a check, what they mean, and how to locate them even if you don’t have a paper check handy.

Anatomy of a Check: What Each Number Means

At first glance, the bottom of a check looks like a random string of numbers. But those numbers each have a specific purpose and follow a consistent pattern.

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There are three sets of numbers printed along the bottom edge:

1. Routing number: This is the first set of numbers on the bottom left. It’s always nine digits long and points to your bank or credit union.
2. Account number: This is the second set, found just to the right of the routing number. It identifies your personal bank account.
3. Check number: The last set, usually on the far right, helps you track individual checks in your checkbook. You’ll also see it printed in the upper right corner of the check.

Most personal checks follow this same order, but some business checks or older formats may flip the routing and account numbers. If you’re unsure, your bank’s website or mobile app will show you which number is which.

Where Is the Routing Number on a Check?

The routing number is the first group of numbers printed at the bottom left corner of your check. It’s a nine-digit code that tells other banks which financial institution issued the check.

Every bank or credit union has at least one routing number, but large banks may have different ones for each state or region. For example, if you bank with Truist Bank or Capital One, the routing number for your account might depend on where you opened it.

Routing numbers are mainly used for:

• Direct deposits from your employer
• Automatic bill payments
• Wire transfers
• ACH transfers (like moving money between accounts)

If you ever need to double-check it, you can also find your routing number in your online banking account or on your bank’s website.

Where Is the Account Number on a Check?

Your account number is the second set of numbers on the bottom of your check, usually printed to the right of the routing number. It’s unique to your account and identifies you as the account holder.

Unlike the routing number, which is always nine digits, your account number can vary in length, typically ranging from seven to twelve digits, depending on the bank.

This number is important for things like:

• Setting up direct deposits
• Paying bills online
• Linking your account to payment apps like PayPal or Venmo
• Receiving tax refunds or transfers

If you’re unsure which number is which, look for the “|:…|:” symbols that mark the beginning and end of the routing number. The account number is the set of digits that follows.

You can also find your account number in your bank’s mobile app, on paper statements, or by contacting customer service.

What Is the Check Number?

The check number helps you keep track of each individual check you write. It’s usually the last set of numbers on the bottom right of the check and is also printed in the upper right corner.

While your routing and account numbers stay the same, the check number changes with every new check you write. It’s mainly used for recordkeeping and tracking payments in your checkbook or online banking.

For example, if your rent check gets delayed or lost, you can look up the check number to confirm whether it cleared or not.

It’s easy to confuse the check number with the account number, but remember that the check number only identifies a specific check, not your entire account.

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How to Find Your Account and Routing Numbers Without a Check

Even if you don’t have a paper check handy, you can still find your account and routing numbers in a few other ways. Most banks make this information easy to access online.

Here are the most common options:

1. Online banking: Log in to your account on your bank’s website. Look for a section called “Account Details,” “Account Information,” or “Account Numbers.” Both your routing and account numbers should be listed there.
2. Mobile app: Open your bank’s mobile app and tap on your account. Many apps display your routing and account numbers under “Account Info” or “Settings.”
3. Bank statement: If you receive paper or digital statements, your account number is typically printed near the top.
4. Customer service: You can always contact your bank’s support team. They can confirm your routing number and help you find your account number securely.

Just be cautious and never share your account or routing numbers through text, email, or social media. Scammers can use that information to access your funds or set up fake transactions.

What Are Account and Routing Numbers Used For?

Your account and routing numbers work together every time money moves in or out of your account. Think of them like a mailing address. The routing number identifies the “street” (your bank), and the account number points to the “house” (your specific account).

Here are the most common times you’ll need them:

• Setting up direct deposit for your paycheck or government benefits
• Paying bills automatically through your checking account
• Receiving tax refunds or investment payouts
• Transferring money between banks
• Sending wire transfers
• Linking accounts to payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App

Simply put, whenever money moves electronically, your account and routing numbers ensure it goes to the right place.

Security Tips: How to Protect Your Banking Information

Your routing and account numbers are key pieces of financial information. If they fall into the wrong hands, someone could try to make unauthorized withdrawals or payments. A few simple steps can keep your money safe.

1. Keep check images private: Avoid sharing photos of your checks online. Even a small portion of the bottom strip can expose both your account and routing numbers.
2. Use secure internet connections: Access your bank account only over private Wi-Fi or cellular data. Public networks in cafés or airports are easier for hackers to exploit.
3. Monitor your account regularly: Check your transaction history often. Report any suspicious activity to your bank right away.
4. Store checks safely: Keep unused checks in a secure spot and shred old ones instead of throwing them in the trash.

A little caution goes a long way in protecting your personal information and preventing identity theft and fraud.

The Bottom Line

Finding your account and routing numbers on a check is simple once you know where to look. The routing number sits on the bottom left, the account number follows it, and the check number is on the right side.

These numbers make it possible to set up direct deposits, transfer money, and pay bills safely. Even if you don’t use paper checks anymore, you can find the same information through your bank’s website, mobile app, or monthly statement.

Before you share these numbers, make sure you trust the source and use a secure connection. A few seconds of caution can save you from a major headache later.