Key takeout
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Your account number is at the bottom of the check. This is the second set of numbers between the 9-digit routing number and the check number.
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The routing number comes first. The nine digits on the left identify a bank or credit union.
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Account numbers are specific to a particular account, but routing numbers are shared by all customers from the same financial institution.
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Both numbers are required for direct deposits, electronic transfers, invoice payments, and other banking transactions.
Your account number is at the bottom of the check. The second set of numbers between a 9-digit routing number and a check number.
Whether you deposit your direct salary deposit online or pay your bill online, knowing where to find your account with a check and the routing number is essential. These numbers work together to identify both your bank and specific accounts, ensuring that your money goes to the right place each time.
What is the account number for the check?
The account number on the check identifies the unique bank account that the money comes from or is doing. Your account number is a set of unique numbers that are specifically assigned to your individual bank account when you open it.
In a check, the account number appears as a set of bottom long numbers placed between the bank’s routing number and the check number. Account numbers usually range from 8 to 12 digits in length.
The account number is private and unique to your bank account, and the routing number is the public identification number of the bank. Each account has its own account number, so if you have multiple checking accounts, such as individual or business accounts, each has a different account number.
Without the correct account number, your pay will be delayed, your bill will be unpaid, and you may face fees for transactions that do not pass properly.
What is the check routing number?
A bank account number indicates a specific account, while a routing number identifies the bank itself. Routing counts are required for many types of financial transactions, such as check processing and wire transfers.
Routing numbers appear as the first set of numbers at the bottom left of the check. It is always exactly nine digits long and is the same for all customers in your bank or credit union. Routing numbers help financial institutions process transactions by identifying which banks receive or should transfer money. Think of it as the bank’s postcode in the banking system.
Unlike account numbers, the routing number is public information. Bank routing numbers can be found on the website or by calling customer service. Money market accounts that provide check writing privileges may display their routing and account numbers in the same location.
Other ways to find your routing number and account number
If checking is not convenient, it can help you find these important numbers in several other ways.
1. Bank Statement
Account numbers are usually visible at both the paper and electronic banking stages, usually at the top of the document. Look for the “account number” followed by a unique number. You can often also list the routing numbers in the account details section.
2. Online and Mobile Banking
Sign in to your bank’s online banking portal or mobile app to find your account information. Some banks have partially hidden account numbers for security reasons, but numbers may appear in the account summary section. Find the Show or Show buttons that display all numbers.
Savings accounts usually do not come with a check, but there are account numbers that can be found through online banking.
3. Please contact the bank directly
Customer Service representatives can provide the routing and account number after verifying their identity in a security question. This method works well if you need immediate information and can’t access other sources.
4. Bank website or app
Many banks publish their routing numbers on their websites. This will not provide your account number, but it is a simple way to check your bank’s routing number.
When do I need an account and a routing number?
These numbers can help you understand when you need them. You can prepare for a variety of bank situations and financial transactions.
- Direct Deposit Setup: Whether it’s your salary, government benefits, or tax refunds, your employer and institution will need both numbers to deposit money directly into your account.
- Pay your bills electronically: Online Invoice Payment Services Use these numbers to automatically withdraw payments from your account.
- Electronic Transfer: You will need both a routing number and an account number to move money between accounts from different banks.
- Tax Payment and Refunds: The IRS requires these numbers for direct deposits of electronic tax payments and refunds.
- Automatic savings transfer: Both numbers are required to set up a repeat transfer to a savings account or investment account.
These numbers work together to identify banks and specific accounts to ensure that your money moves safely and accurately. To avoid transaction errors, always check these numbers before providing them.
Conclusion
The account number acts as a unique identifier for your bank account, telling the financial institution exactly which account you access your transactions. These numbers at the bottom of the check along with the routing number are essential for modern banking activities such as direct deposits and e-invoice payments.
Where to find your account and routing numbers, and if you need them, you can handle banking tasks efficiently and avoid expensive delays.
Next steps: Do I need to open a new checking account or compare current account features? Find out the best checking accounts on Bankrate to find the option to meet your bank’s needs or learn more about how to write a check for additional guidance.