Short answer: to read a check, start at the top: the account holder’s name and address (top left), the check number and date (top right), the payee on the “Pay to the order of” line, the amount in numbers in the box and in words on the line below, the memo (bottom left) and the signature (bottom right). The line of numbers along the bottom is the routing number (9 digits), the account number and the check number. Facts checked November 11, 2026.
Order checks at Checks Unlimited →
Affiliate link: GetBankChecks.com earns a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
On this page
The 9 parts of a check
Every personal check in the US has the same fields in roughly the same places. Here is what each one tells you, from top left to bottom right:
| # | Part | Where it is | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Account holder | Top left | The name (and often address) of the person or business whose account pays the check. |
| 2 | Check number | Top right | A running number for each check; it repeats in the bottom line so you and the bank can match it to your register. |
| 3 | Date | Top right, under the check number | The day the check was written. Banks may refuse a check that is more than six months old. |
| 4 | Payee | “Pay to the order of” line | Who the check is made out to, and who must sign the back to cash or deposit it. |
| 5 | Amount in numbers | Box on the right, next to the $ sign | The amount being paid, for example 135.50. |
| 6 | Amount in words | Long line under the payee | The same amount spelled out, with cents as a fraction: “One hundred thirty-five and 50/100”. |
| 7 | Bank name | Usually above or below the amount line | The bank or credit union that holds the account and pays the check. |
| 8 | Memo | Bottom left | An optional note on what the payment is for, such as an invoice or account number. |
| 9 | Signature | Bottom right | The account holder’s signature. A check isn’t valid without it. |
Some checks also show a small fraction-style number near the check number, such as 11-2222/3333. That is an older form of the bank’s routing information; you don’t need it for direct deposit or online payments.
The numbers at the bottom of a check
The row of numbers along the bottom edge is the MICR line, printed in magnetic ink so bank machines can read it. On most personal checks it reads, left to right:
| Group | What it is | How to spot it |
|---|---|---|
| First | Bank routing number | Always 9 digits, set off by small bracket-like transit symbols |
| Second | Your account number | Usually 8 to 12 digits, followed by a symbol that looks like a broken vertical line |
| Third | Check number | Matches the number printed at the top right |
On some checks, especially business checks, the check number comes first and the account number last. The routing number is still the 9-digit group between the transit symbols.
How to find your routing and account number on a check
- Take a blank check from your checkbook (or use a voided one).
- Read the bottom line from the left: the first 9 digits are the routing number.
- The next group of digits is your account number. Ignore the check number, which matches the top-right number.
- Double-check both against your bank’s app or statement before you give them out for direct deposit or autopay.
An employer that asks for these numbers often wants a voided check; see how to void a check. Deposit slips use the same routing and account numbers.
Amount in words vs amount in numbers
If the amount in words and the amount in numbers don’t match, the words win: under the Uniform Commercial Code that most states follow, written words take priority over numbers. That is why the amount in words is called the legal amount. When you write a check, start the words at the far left and draw a line to the end so nobody can add to them.
Security features on a check
- Padlock icon: a small padlock printed on the check means it has security features, usually listed on the back.
- Microprinting: the signature line is often a row of tiny text that blurs when copied.
- Warning band and void pantograph: some checks show the word VOID when photocopied.
- Chemical protection: stains or spots appear if someone tries to wash off the ink.
Checks Unlimited’s High Security Parchment checks, priced below, add extra features of this kind; plain Blue Classic checks cost less.
Where to order checks: prices
Every check you order shows these same parts, printed with your bank’s routing number and your account number. Here is what a box of plain blue personal checks costs on each printer’s own site today:
| Checks | Checks per box | 1 box | 2 boxes | 4 boxes | Duplicates (1 / 2 / 4) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Checks Unlimited Blue Classic | 80 | $23.49 | $38.99 | $72.29 | $29.49 / $48.99 / $90.49 |
| Checks Unlimited High Security Parchment | 80 | $28.49 | $49.59 | $87.69 | $34.49 / $59.79 / $106.19 |
| Carousel Checks basic blue (VAL-001) | 100 | $20.00 | $39.50 | $79.00 | $22.00 / $44.00 / $88.00 |
| Walmart Checks Blue Secure | 100 | $12.75 | $25.49 | $50.99 | $14.46 / $28.92 / $57.85 |
Prices checked November 11, 2026 on each seller’s own product page, before shipping and taxes. Checks Unlimited says its product prices include handling fees and sells 80 checks per box; Walmart Checks lists free standard shipping and 100 checks per pack; Carousel sells 100 checks per box. Prices change, so confirm them at checkout.
How to read a check: frequently asked questions
Which number is the routing number on a check?
The first group of numbers at the bottom left. A routing number is always 9 digits and sits between two small bracket-like transit symbols.
Which number is the account number on a check?
Usually the second group of numbers at the bottom, right after the routing number. The last group is the check number, which matches the number at the top right.
Where is the check number on a check?
In the top right corner, and again in the line of numbers along the bottom of the check.
What if the amount in words and numbers are different?
The amount written in words is the legal amount and normally takes priority. A bank may also return the check or contact the account holder, so write both clearly.
Need new checks? Checks Unlimited sells 80 checks from $23.49 a box.
Shop personal checks at Checks Unlimited →
Checks Unlimited prices checked November 11, 2026, before shipping. Affiliate link: GetBankChecks.com may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Related guides
- Where to order checks
- How to write a check
- How to void a check
- How to endorse a check
- How to deposit a check
- How long is a check good for?
- Check registers
- Cheapest checks 2026
Affiliate disclosure: GetBankChecks.com is an independent guide, not a check printer or a bank. Some links are affiliate links, and we earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. Prices and designs change, so check them on the merchant’s site before you pay. This guide is general information, not legal or banking advice; your bank’s rules apply.