How to Read an Account & Routing Number on a Check

A personal or business check serves as a paper instruction to transfer funds from one account to another. Correctly identifying the routing and account numbers on these documents is important for various financial operations. These numbers are essential for setting up direct deposits, making electronic bill payments, or initiating other funds transfers. Understanding their location and format helps ensure accurate and efficient processing.

Understanding the Check Layout

The bottom portion of a check contains a specialized series of characters printed in magnetic ink, known as the Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) line. This line is designed for high-speed processing by machines, ensuring accuracy. The MICR line typically contains three distinct sets of numbers: the routing number, the account number, and the check number. These numbers are arranged in a specific sequence to facilitate automated reading and processing.

Identifying the Routing Number

The routing number, also known as the ABA routing number, is a nine-digit code that identifies the financial institution associated with the check. It is typically the first set of numbers located on the far left of the MICR line. This number is consistently nine digits long and is often enclosed by special transit symbols that help automated systems identify its beginning and end.

These transit symbols are not part of the actual routing number but serve as visual cues for both machines and individuals. For example, some systems use “T” symbols to bracket the routing number. The routing number acts as an address for the bank, enabling the correct transfer of funds for direct deposits, electronic payments, and wire transfers. Verifying all nine digits ensures funds are directed to the intended financial institution.

Identifying the Account Number

The account number identifies the specific checking account. This number is typically found as the middle set of digits on the MICR line, to the right of the routing number. Unlike the routing number, the account number can vary in length, often ranging from 8 to 12 or more digits.

Differentiate the account number from the check number, which is usually the last set of numbers on the right of the MICR line and also printed in the top right corner. If there is confusion between the account number and the check number, the account number is generally the longer sequence of digits. Including all digits, even any leading or trailing zeros, ensures accurate transaction processing.