You can request a new account number from your bank, but the reason matters and the process takes time
A new account number is not automatic. Your bank will not generate one just because you want a fresh start. Most banks will issue a new number only if you have a specific reason — fraud on the account, identity theft, a security breach, or a mistake in the original setup. If you straightforward want a different number for personal reasons, some banks will do it, but others will not, and those that do may charge a fee or require you to close the old account and open a new one.
The process is not when ready. Even when your bank agrees, getting a new number typically takes one to two weeks. During that time, your old number may still be active, which can create confusion if you have bills or direct deposits set up. You will need to update those separately, and the timing matters — if a payment tries to go through on the old number after it closes, it will fail.
Key Takeaways
- Banks usually issue a new account number only for fraud, identity theft, or security breaches, not for personal preference.
- The process takes one to two weeks, and you must update any automatic payments or direct deposits yourself before the old number closes.
- Some banks charge a fee to change your account number, while others do it at no cost — ask before you request the change.
- If your bank refuses to change the number, you can close the account and open a new one, though this creates a new account number automatically.
When banks will issue a new account number
Fraud or unauthorized activity is the most common reason a bank will change your number without hesitation. If someone has used your account number to make unauthorized transfers or payments, your bank should issue a new number as part of resolving the fraud claim. This protects you from further unauthorized use of that number.
Identity theft also triggers a number change. If your personal information was compromised — your Social Security number, name, address, or other details used to open accounts — your bank may change your account number as a precaution, even if no fraudulent activity has occurred yet on that specific account.
A data breach at the bank itself may result in a new number. If the bank's systems were compromised and account numbers were exposed, the bank may proactively issue new numbers to affected customers. The bank will notify you if this happens.
Errors in the original account setup can also justify a change. If the bank made a mistake when creating your account — for example, linking it to the wrong Social Security number or routing number — they may close that account and open a new one with a correct number.
When banks will not change your account number
If you straightforward want a new number because you prefer it, or because you gave the old number to someone you no longer trust, most banks will decline. They view the account number as tied to your account history, and changing it for convenience creates administrative work with no security benefit to the bank.
Some banks have a policy against changing numbers under any circumstance except fraud. Others will do it but charge a fee, typically $25 to $50. A few will allow it at no cost. Before you request a change, call your bank and ask what their policy is and whether there is a fee.
How to request a new account number
Start by calling your bank's customer service line. Explain why you want a new number — be specific about the reason. If it is fraud or identity theft, have any documentation ready (police report, fraud claim number, or letter from the bank about the breach). The representative will tell you whether your bank can change the number and whether there is a fee.
If the bank agrees, ask how long the process takes and whether the old number will close automatically or if you need to request that separately. Ask whether you can keep both numbers active for a few days while you update your automatic payments and direct deposits — some banks allow this, others do not.
Get the representative's name and a confirmation number for your request. Ask them to send you a written confirmation of the new number and the date it becomes active. Do not rely on a verbal confirmation alone.
Updating your payments and deposits after the number changes
Once you have a new account number, you must update it everywhere it is used. This includes:
- Your employer's payroll system (if you receive direct deposit)
- Government agencies (if you receive Social Security, tax refunds, or other benefits)
- Automatic bill payments you have set up
- Any creditors or lenders who have your account number on file
- Subscription services or memberships that charge your account
Do this as soon as you receive your new number, not after the old one closes. If a payment tries to go through on a closed account number, it will be rejected, and you may face late fees or service interruptions.
Keep a list of everywhere your account number is used. Many people forget about subscriptions or recurring charges until a payment fails. If you are unsure where your number is used, log into your online banking and review your recent transactions to see who has been charging your account.
Closing the old account and opening a new one instead
If your bank refuses to change your account number, you can close the old account and open a new one. This automatically gives you a new account number. However, this approach has drawbacks.
Closing and reopening creates a gap in your account history. Some banks use account history to assess your reliability as a customer. If you explore for a loan or credit product later, lenders may see the closed account and ask why. It is not a disqualifying factor, but it can trigger questions.
You will also need to update your account number in all the same places listed above. The work is the same whether the bank changes the number or you open a new account — the only difference is that opening a new account is entirely your choice, while a bank-issued change is their decision.
If you do decide to close and reopen, do it in this order: open the new account first, update all your automatic payments and direct deposits to the new number, wait a few days to make sure everything is working, then close the old account. This prevents a gap where payments fail because the old account is already closed.
What happens to checks and wire instructions
If you have printed checks with your old account number, they will not work once that account closes. You will need to order new checks with your new account number. This takes one to two weeks and costs money — typically $15 to $30 for a box of checks, depending on your bank.
If you have given anyone your account number and routing number for wire transfers, you must tell them the new number. Wire transfers are specific to the account number, so using the old number after the account closes will result in a failed transfer. This is especially important if you receive regular wires from family, employers, or clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing my account number affect my credit score?
No. Your credit score is tied to your Social Security number and name, not your bank account number. Changing your account number will not appear on your credit report and will not affect your score. Closing an old account and opening a new one also does not affect your credit, because bank accounts are not reported to credit bureaus.
Can I keep my old account number active while I switch to the new one?
It depends on your bank. Some banks will keep both active for a week or two to give you time to update your payments. Others close the old number when ready. Ask your bank before you request the change. If they will not keep both active, plan to update all your payments before the old number closes.
What if I already gave my old account number to someone I do not trust?
A new account number will stop them from using the old number once that account closes. However, if they have already made unauthorized charges, you need to report fraud to your bank when ready, not just request a new number. The bank will investigate the fraudulent charges and may refund them while they issue you a new account number.
Do I need to close my old account if the bank gives me a new number?
Usually yes, but ask your bank. Most banks automatically close the old account when the new number becomes active. Some require you to request the closure separately. If the old account stays open, you may be charged a monthly fee, so confirm the closure in writing.
How long does it take to get a new account number?
The process typically takes one to two weeks from the date you request it. Some banks are faster, others slower. Ask your bank for a specific date when the new number will be active. Do not assume it is when ready — plan your payment updates around the actual date you receive from the bank.