how to find the checking account number on a check

You’ve probably been there before—filling out a form for a direct deposit, setting up an automatic bill payment, or making a wire transfer, and you suddenly need your checking account number. While you could log into your mobile banking app, sometimes the easiest thing to do is simply grab a check. It holds all the information you need, if you know where to look.

Finding the right set of digits can be confusing at first glance, as a check has several different numbers printed on it. Knowing how to find the checking account number on a check is a simple but essential piece of financial knowledge that makes managing your money smoother.

How to Find the Checking Account Number on a Check

Let’s break down the three key number sequences at the bottom of a standard personal check. From left to right, you’ll find the routing number, your account number, and the check number. The routing number is always nine digits long and comes first. Your account number is typically the middle set of numbers, which can vary in length. Finally, the last set of numbers is the check number, which usually matches the number in the top-right corner of the check.

Spotting Your Unique Account Number

Your checking account number is the most important piece of information for identifying your specific account. This is the number that is unique to you. It can be anywhere from eight to 12 digits long, though some credit unions may have even longer account numbers. To confirm you have the right sequence, just remember it’s always the set of numbers in the middle of the bottom row, nestled between the routing number and the check number.

A Quick Guide to the Other Numbers on a Check

It helps to understand the numbers that surround your account number. The first set, the nine-digit routing number, is like an address for your bank. It identifies the financial institution itself and is the same for every customer who banks at that same branch. The last number, the check number, is simply a reference for you and the bank to track that specific payment. You’ll often see it repeated in the top-right corner.

Tips for When You Don’t Have a Check Handy

If you don’t have a checkbook nearby, don’t worry. Your account number is readily available through other methods. Your most reliable sources are your bank’s mobile app or online banking portal, usually found within your account details. You can also find it on your monthly bank statement, or you can always call your bank’s customer service line for assistance.

With this knowledge, you can confidently locate your checking account number whenever you need it. Taking a moment to familiarize yourself with the layout of a check saves time and helps you handle your banking tasks with ease.