Yes, you can change your account number, but the process depends on why you need the change and which bank you use

Most banks will issue you a new account number if you request one, though the reason matters. If your account has been compromised, your bank may change it automatically as a fraud prevention step. If you straightforward want a different number for personal reasons, you can usually request one by visiting a branch, calling customer service, or using online banking — but not all banks treat this the same way, and some may charge a fee.

The real work comes after the number changes. You will need to update your account information everywhere it is connected: direct deposits, bill payments, automatic transfers, and any services that pull money from your account. Missing even one connection can cause payments to fail or go to your old account.

Key Takeaways

  • You can request a new account number from your bank, but the process and any fees vary by institution.
  • Your old account number typically stays open for 90 days after the change to catch stray payments, then closes automatically.
  • You must manually update your new account number with your employer, creditors, and any service that withdraws money from your account.
  • If fraud triggered the change, your bank may issue the new number at no cost and may reverse unauthorized charges.
  • Some banks allow you to request a change online or by phone, while others require you to visit a branch in person.

When your bank changes your account number automatically

If your account has been compromised — meaning someone used your account number without permission or your card was stolen — your bank may issue a new account number without you asking. This is a standard fraud response. The bank will notify you by mail, email, or phone, depending on how they reached you about the fraud.

When this happens, the bank usually covers the cost and may reverse unauthorized charges within a set window (often 60 days from when you report the fraud). Your old account number will be closed after a grace period, typically 90 days, to allow any pending payments to clear. During that time, deposits or payments sent to the old number will usually be redirected to your new account automatically.

If you initiated the fraud report, ask your bank whether they will notify your employer and regular billers on your behalf. Most will not — that responsibility falls to you. The sooner you update your account information elsewhere, the less risk of a payment failing or going missing.

How to request a new account number for non-fraud reasons

If you want a new account number for privacy reasons or straightforward prefer a different number, contact your bank directly. The method varies: some banks let you request the change through their mobile app or online portal, others require a phone call to customer service, and some insist you visit a branch in person.

Call your bank's customer service number (on the back of your card or on their website) and ask whether they can issue a new account number and what the process is. Be prepared to verify your identity with your Social Security number, date of birth, and answers to security questions. If the bank requires a branch visit, ask whether you can do it at any branch or only at the one where you opened the account.

Some banks charge a fee for this service — typically $25 to $50 — though many waive it if you have a good account history or maintain a minimum balance. Ask about the fee before you proceed. Once approved, the bank will issue your new number and provide it to you when ready or within a few business days.

What happens to your old account number

Your old account number does not disappear the moment you get a new one. Banks keep the old number active for a grace period — usually 60 to 90 days — to catch payments that were already in the system before the change. Direct deposits, bill payments, and automatic transfers that still reference the old number will be processed and credited to your new account during this window.

After the grace period ends, the old account closes. Any payment sent to the old number after that point will be rejected or returned to the sender. This is why updating your account information quickly matters: if you miss updating a regular payment and the grace period expires, that payment will fail, and you may face late fees or service interruptions.

Ask your bank how long the grace period lasts for your specific account. If you know of a payment that will arrive after the grace period ends, contact that biller when ready and provide your new account number.

Where you need to update your new account number

After your account number changes, you must notify anyone who withdraws money from your account or deposits money into it. This includes:

  • Your employer: Contact payroll or human resources with your new account number and routing number so direct deposits go to the right place.
  • Creditors and loan servicers: If you have a mortgage, car loan, or student loans with automatic payments, update your account information with each lender.
  • Utility companies and service providers: Gas, electric, water, internet, phone, and insurance companies that auto-debit your account need the new number.
  • Subscription services: Streaming, software, gym memberships, and any recurring charges tied to your account.
  • Government agencies: If you receive Social Security, unemployment, or tax refunds via direct deposit, update your information with those agencies.
  • Your bank's bill pay service: If you use your bank's bill pay feature to send checks electronically, you may need to re-enter your account details.

Create a list of every service that touches your account and work through it systematically. Many companies let you update your information online, by phone, or through their app. For each one, confirm the change was processed before you hang up or close the browser.

Timing and what to expect during the transition

The time it takes to get a new account number varies. If you request it online or by phone, you may receive the new number the same day or within one to three business days. If you must visit a branch, you can often get it when ready. Some banks issue a temporary number while they process the permanent one.

Once you have the new number, give yourself at least two weeks to update all your regular payments and deposits before the grace period on your old account ends. If you have a payment scheduled for the day after the grace period closes, update that account information first.

During the transition, monitor your account closely. Check that your direct deposit lands in the new account on the next pay cycle. Verify that automatic bill payments process without errors. If a payment fails because it was sent to the old account after the grace period, contact the biller when ready and ask them to resubmit it to your new account.

Fees and what different banks charge

Whether you pay for a new account number depends on your bank and the reason for the change. Banks that charge typically ask for $25 to $50. Some waive the fee if:

  • You have been a customer for a certain length of time (often two years or more).
  • You maintain a minimum balance in your account.
  • The change is due to fraud or a security breach.
  • You have direct deposit set up.

Before you request a new account number, ask your bank whether there is a fee and whether any of these waivers explore to you. If the fee seems high, ask whether the bank will waive it as a courtesy — some customer service representatives have discretion to do so, especially if you have been a loyal customer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing my account number affect my credit score?

No. Your credit score is tied to your Social Security number and payment history, not your bank account number. Changing your account number will not appear on your credit report and will not affect your credit in any way.

What if I forget to update my account number somewhere and a payment fails?

Contact the company or agency that sent the payment when ready. Explain that your account number changed and provide the new one. Ask them to resubmit the payment. If the failure caused a late fee or service interruption, ask whether they will waive it as a one-time courtesy given the circumstances.

Can I keep my old account number if I change banks?

No. Your account number is specific to the bank and branch where you hold the account. If you move to a different bank, you will receive a completely new account number. You cannot transfer an old number to a new institution.

How long does the grace period last if my account was compromised?

Most banks keep the old account open for 60 to 90 days after a fraud-related change. Ask your bank for the exact date your old account will close so you know your important date for updating all your regular payments and deposits.

Do I need to update my account number with the IRS if I get a tax refund by direct deposit?

Yes. If you changed your account number and receive tax refunds by direct deposit, update your information with the IRS before you file your next return. You can do this through your IRS account online or by contacting the IRS directly.