How to Read a Check? How to Locate Your Account and Bank Numbers?

Have you ever received a check and wondered what all the check account numbers and sections mean?

If so, you’re not alone. 

Even though digital payments are the norm today, paper checks are still widely used for payroll, rent payments, and government transactions. 

Knowing how to read a check can help verify payments, set up direct deposits, and spot potential fraud. 

Each check has key elements that work together to authorize a transaction.  

Understanding these parts will make the process smoother, whether you are depositing, cashing, or writing a check. 

This guide will break down each section of a check, explain its purpose, and show you where to find important details like the account number on the check and the routing number. 

What is on a Check?

A typical check includes several key components that help identify the payer, the bank, and the specific account the funds are coming from. While the design of checks may vary slightly between banks, all checks share common features. Let’s walk through the main parts of a check and explain what each section represents.

1. The Payee Line

This is the line on which you write the payee's name, i.e., the person or business to whom the check is being made out.
On a check, this is usually printed next to the words “Pay to the Order of.” In this section, you’ll see the name of the person or business receiving the payment.

Example:

• Pay to the order of: Sam Clarke

It’s vital to ensure the name is spelled correctly. If you're the one writing the check, be sure to fill in the payee line clearly to avoid confusion or potential issues with cashing or depositing the check.

2. The Date Line

Next to the payee line, you’ll find the date section, which shows when the check was issued. 

This date is crucial for the writer and the recipient since it indicates when the funds will be available. 

The date is important if you’re cashing or depositing the check because checks can only be processed within a certain time frame. 

Most checks are valid for six months, but some banks may impose a shorter or longer validity period. 

Example:

• Date: March 20th, 2025  

3. The Dollar Amount (Written and Numeric):

The amount of the check is listed twice: once in numerical form and once in words.
The numerical amount is written in a box next to the payee line, while the written amount is written in long form along the lower portion of the check.

Both amounts should match exactly, as discrepancies between the two could lead to issues in processing the check. 

The words written in the lower part are considered the legal form of the check’s value.

Example:

• $500.00 (numerical)
• Five hundred and 00/100 dollars (written)

4. The Signature Line

This is the space located in the lower-right corner of the check, where the account holder puts their signature to authorize and validate the transaction. 

This signature authorizes the bank to release the funds from the account associated with the check. Without a signature, the check is not valid. 

Verify that the signature matches the one on file with the bank. 

If you’re cashing a check, make sure the signature is legible and appears genuine. 

Example:

• John Smith (signature)  

5. The Routing Number

The routing number is a nine-digit number located at the bottom of the check. It identifies the bank or financial institution that issued the check and helps route it to the correct institution for processing. 

In the U.S., the routing number follows a standard format that can be used to identify the bank’s location. 

Each financial institution has its own unique routing number, which is essential for directing the payment to the correct bank. 

Example:

• Routing Number: 123456789

6. The Account Number on the Check

The account number on the check is located after the routing number at the bottom of the check. 

This number identifies the specific bank account number on the check from which the funds will be withdrawn. 

The bank needs this number to access the correct account so that checks can be processed. 

The checkbook account number is unique to the individual or business, ensuring that funds are withdrawn from the right place. 

Example:

• Account Number: 987654321

7. The Check Number

The check number is another important element, typically found in the upper-right corner of the check. 

This number helps both the check writer and the bank track the check’s status. 

It’s common to have a series of checks numbered sequentially, and this number can be used to identify a specific check in case you need to reference it later. 

Example: 

• Check Number: 00123

8. The Memo Line

The memo line is optional but is often used to specify the reason for the payment. 

This could include notes such as “Rent for March” or “Payment for services rendered.” 

While the memo does not affect the processing of the check, it can be a helpful reminder for both the payee and payer. 

Example: 

• Memo: Payment for Consulting Services

How to Read a Check

Now that you know what all the parts of a check mean, it’s time to understand how to read a check properly. 

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide: 

• Start with the Payee: Check who the check is being issued to. This will tell you who is supposed to receive the money.
• Review the Date: Ensure the date is recent (within six months), as an outdated check may be rejected. A future date makes it a post-dated check, which the bank may not process until then.
• Check the Amount: Verify that the numeric and written amounts match.
• Look for the Signature: Ensure the check is signed by the account holder to authorize the transaction.
• Check the Routing and Account Numbers: These numbers will direct the payment to the correct bank and account. Make sure both are correct and legible.
• Look for the Memo: This line can provide context about the payment’s purpose.

Why Understanding Checks is Important

Even with online banking, checks remain useful for transactions like:

• Paying rent or mortgage
• Receiving government payments or tax refunds
• Sending money to vendors who don’t accept cards

If you regularly receive checks, consider opening a bank savings account for easier deposits and money management. 

SBI California: Your Trusted Banking Partner

SBI California (SBIC) has been a trusted name in banking for over 40 years, providing personalized financial solutions to communities across California and beyond. 

We offer a variety of financial products and services, including personal banking, business banking, and international services. 

If you're considering how to manage your finances more effectively, including how to read a check or make a deposit, contact us for more information. 

Our online platform makes it easy to get started, and we provide customer support to guide you every step of the way. 

At SBI California, we understand the unique financial needs of our customers and work to offer products that help you achieve your financial goals. 

Whether you're interested in a checking account, high-yield savings, or need help with cross-border money transfers, we’re here to make banking easier and more accessible for you. 

Open a bank account now to take the first step toward securing your financial future. 

Wrapping Up

Knowing how to read a check is an essential skill that will help you avoid mistakes and confidently navigate financial transactions. 

By paying attention to key details, such as the payee’s name, routing number, and the account number on checks, you can make sure that everything is in order before processing a payment. 

And if you need more guidance on managing your money, opening an account, or other banking services, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at SBI California.

We're here to help you every step of the way.