how to determine the routing number on a check
3. Identify the first nine numbers. All routing numbers are nine numbers. The first nine numbers in the lower, left-hand part of your check after the MICR character is your routing number. 1  Be sure to exclude any preceding MICR characters when determining your routing number. 2  Following your routing number, the next set of numbers, up until the next MICR character, is your account number.