Routing & Account Numbers on Checks: A Simple Guide

Whether you're filling out a blank deposit slip at the bank, placing an order for new checks, or setting up automatic payments online, you will need to provide the routing and account numbers found on your checks. Knowing which number is which can prevent problems or delays with your transactions. The routing number, which is assigned by the American Bankers Association, identifies your bank or financial institution, while the account number refers to your checking account number.

Step 1

Look at the bottom left corner on the front of the check. Note the nine digit number, which is the routing number. The following symbol appears before and after this number: a vertical line with two small squares beside it — one square above the other.

Step 2

Look at the check number found in the upper right corner of the front of the check. Note the number, which is often four digits, at the bottom of the check that matches the check number. You might see a zero in front of this number.

Step 3

Look at the string of numbers located between the routing number and check number at the bottom of the check. Your account number consists of all of these digits, including any zeroes found at the beginning of the string.

Tip

You can also find the account number by looking for a symbol or special character, which varies by bank and can appear as a combination of vertical lines and small squares, located to the left of the check number at the bottom of the check. The account number appears in between the symbol after the routing number and the symbol before the check number.