Your bank account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank's customer service line

If you have checks, look at the bottom of any check. You will see three sets of numbers. The first set (usually nine digits) is your routing number. The second set is your account number, which is typically 10 to 12 digits long. The account number comes after the routing number and before the final set of digits on the right.

If you do not have checks or cannot find them, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Your account number appears on the account summary page, usually near the top where your account name and balance are shown. Some banks label it "Account Number" or "Your Account". If you cannot locate it online, call the phone number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website and speak to a representative who can read it to you.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account number is the second set of digits on the bottom of a check, after the routing number and before the final set.
  • You can find your account number by logging into your online banking portal or mobile app under your account summary.
  • If you do not have checks or online access, call your bank's customer service line using the number on your debit card or bank statement.
  • Your account number is different from your routing number — you may need both for direct deposit, wire transfers, or setting up automatic payments.

Finding your account number on a check

The bottom of a check contains three groups of numbers in a specific order. On the far left is the routing number (nine digits). In the middle is your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits). On the far right is the check number. Your account number is always the middle group.

If your checks are old or faded, the numbers may be hard to read. You can order new checks from your bank or from a third-party check printer. Your bank can also confirm the account number over the phone while you look at the check, so you know you are reading it correctly.

Locating your account number online

Log into your bank's website using your username and password. Once you are logged in, look for a page labeled "Account Summary," "My Accounts," or "Account Details." Your account number will be displayed prominently on this page, usually near your account name and current balance.

If you use your bank's mobile app, the same information is typically on the home screen or in a section labeled "Accounts." Some banks show only the last four digits of your account number for security reasons on the main screen. If that is the case, tap on the account or look for a "View Full Account Number" option to see all the digits.

Getting your account number by phone

Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on a recent bank statement. When you reach a representative, they will ask you to verify your identity by providing your name, date of birth, or the last four digits of your Social Security number. Once verified, they can read your account number to you.

Have a pen and paper ready to write down the number. Ask the representative to repeat it slowly, and read it back to them to confirm you have it correct. If you need the account number for a specific purpose — like setting up direct deposit or a wire transfer — let the representative know, and they can confirm that the account number you have is the right one for that task.

What to do if you cannot find your account number

If you have lost your checks, do not have online banking set up, and cannot reach customer service by phone, visit your bank in person. Bring a photo ID and ask a teller to provide your account number. They can write it down for you or print it on a receipt.

If your bank has closed or you no longer remember which bank you used, check old bank statements, emails from the bank, or your tax records. Many employers and government agencies send statements that list the account number. If you still cannot locate it, you may need to contact the bank directly by mail or visit a branch to request account information.

Why you might need your account number

Your account number is required for direct deposit (when your employer or a government agency deposits money into your account), setting up automatic bill payments, wire transfers, and receiving payments from other people. Some online services also ask for your account number to verify that you own the account.

When you provide your account number to someone, always make sure you are sending it to a trusted source. Do not share it in response to unsolicited emails or phone calls. Legitimate banks and employers will never ask you to confirm your account number via email or text message.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my account number the same as my debit card number?

No. Your debit card number is printed on the front of your card and is different from your account number. Your account number is found on checks or in your online banking portal. Some transactions require the account number, while others require the debit card number.

Can someone use my account number to steal money from my account?

An account number alone is not enough to withdraw money or make unauthorized transfers. A person would also need your routing number, your PIN, or other verification information. However, do not share your account number with people you do not trust, and never provide it in response to unsolicited contact.

What if the account number on my check does not match the one in my online banking?

Contact your bank when ready. This is unusual and may indicate an error in your account setup or a problem with your checks. A representative can verify which number is correct and help you order new checks if needed.

Do I need both my routing number and account number for direct deposit?

Yes. Direct deposit requires both numbers. Your routing number tells the system which bank to send the money to, and your account number tells the bank which account within that bank should receive the deposit. You can find both on the bottom of a check.