Everything a bank needs to process a check is in the line of numbers along the bottom. Here's what each part means, how personal and business checks differ, and where else to find your numbers if you don't have a check handy.
Updated · The SimpleChex Team
| Part | Example | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| Routing number | ⑆123456780⑆ | 9 digits identifying your bank, between two transit symbols (⑆). |
| Account number | 000123456789⑈ | Your account at that bank. Length varies by bank; followed by an on-us symbol (⑈). |
| Check number | 1001 | Matches the number printed in the top-right corner of the check. |
| Amount field | (blank) | Left empty when the check is printed. The bank of first deposit encodes the amount here. |
Example numbers are made up. On many business checks the check number comes first, at the far left, in its own field marked with on-us symbols.
The routing number — also called an ABA routing transit number — is always 9 digits and always sits between two transit symbols that look like ⑆. It identifies the bank, not you, so everyone with an account at the same bank and region often has the same routing number.
The first two digits relate to the Federal Reserve district the bank is in, and the last digit is a check digit calculated from the other eight. That's how software can catch a mistyped routing number: if the math doesn't work out, the number is wrong.
Some banks use a different routing number for wire transfers than for checks and ACH. For printing checks, use the one shown on your checks or labeled for checks and direct deposit in your bank app.
Your account number identifies your specific account and usually follows the routing number. It can be anywhere from a few digits to 17, sometimes with leading zeros, and it ends with the on-us symbol (⑈). Copy it exactly, including any leading zeros your bank shows.
On personal checks the check number usually comes after the account number. On business checks it often appears first, at the left edge. Either way it should match the number in the top-right corner. Keeping check numbers unique is what makes your records line up with your bank statement.
Many checks also show a small fraction near the check number, such as 12-3456/7890. That's the fractional form of the routing number, a backup that lets a person route the check if the bottom line can't be read. It isn't required for a check to be valid.
Your bank's app or website — often under account details or direct deposit information. A bank statement, which usually shows the account number and sometimes the routing number. Or call your bank.
Once you have them, you can print complete checks yourself. SimpleChex puts your routing number, account number and check number in the MICR line in the E-13B font banks read.
Free for up to 10 checks a month. No credit card, nothing to install.