Your checking account number is printed on the bottom left of every check you write, and it's also visible in your bank's online portal or mobile app

The easiest place to look is a check from your checkbook. Open the check and look at the bottom left corner. You'll see a series of numbers separated by colons or special symbols. The middle set of numbers is your account number — usually between 8 and 12 digits long. If you don't have checks handy, log into your bank's website or open the mobile app, go to your account details or account summary page, and your account number will be listed there.

You can also call your bank's customer service line, have your ID ready, and they'll read it to you over the phone. This takes less than five minutes and works even if you've forgotten your online password or don't have checks on hand.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account number appears on the bottom left of any check you own, in the middle group of numbers between the routing number and a check number.
  • Online banking portals and mobile apps display your account number in the account details or summary section without requiring a phone call.
  • If you've lost access to checks and can't log in online, calling your bank with a photo ID or other verification is the fastest backup option.
  • Some banks print the account number on statements, deposit slips, and debit cards, so you may already have it written down somewhere.

Finding it on a physical check

Every check has three groups of numbers at the bottom. From left to right, they are: routing number, account number, and check number. The account number is always in the middle. It's usually 8 to 12 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank. If your checks are old or faded, the numbers may be hard to read, but they're still there.

If you've run out of checks or never ordered them, you can still use this method — ask a family member or roommate who shares the account to show you one of their checks. The account number will be the same.

Logging into your bank's website or app

Open your bank's website in a browser or launch their mobile app on your phone. Sign in with your username and password. Once you're logged in, look for a section called "Account Details," "Account Information," "Account Summary," or sometimes just "Accounts." Your account number will be displayed there, usually near the top of the page.

Some banks also show it on the dashboard or home screen after you log in. If you can't find it in the obvious places, use the search or help function within the app and search for "account number." Most banks will take you directly to the right page.

Calling your bank by phone

If you don't have checks and can't access online banking, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your most recent bank statement. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and a photo ID ready. The bank will verify your identity and then read your account number to you. This usually takes less than five minutes.

Some banks also have automated phone systems that will read your account number back to you after you enter your PIN or answer security questions. Check your bank's website to see if this option is available before calling a representative.

Other places your account number may be printed

Bank statements — whether you receive them by mail or read them as PDFs — usually show your account number at the top or in the account details section. Deposit slips, if your bank still provides them, also print the account number. Some banks print it on the back of your debit card or on welcome materials you received when you opened the account.

If you've kept any of these documents, you can find your account number without logging in or calling. Check your files, email, or the drawer where you keep financial papers. This is often the fastest route if you have statements from the past few months.

What to do if you can't remember your login credentials

If you've forgotten your online banking password or username, use the "Forgot Password" or "Forgot Username" link on your bank's login page. You'll be asked to verify your identity — usually through your email address, phone number, or security questions — and then you can reset your credentials. Once you're back in, your account number is when ready visible.

If you can't verify your identity online, call your bank directly. They can reset your password over the phone after confirming who you are, or they can straightforward read your account number to you without requiring you to log in at all. Either way, you'll have your account number within minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my account number the same as my routing number?

No. Your routing number identifies which bank you use; your account number identifies which specific account within that bank is yours. Both appear on the bottom of a check, but in different positions. The routing number is on the left, and the account number is in the middle.

Can I find my account number on my debit card?

Some banks print the account number on the back of the debit card, but not all do. The card itself usually shows only the card number, which is different from your account number. Check the back of your card or call your bank to confirm whether yours displays it.

What if I have multiple checking accounts at the same bank?

Each account has its own unique account number. When you log into online banking, you'll see all your accounts listed separately, each with its own number. If you need a specific account number, make sure you're looking at the right account before copying it down.

Is it safe to share my account number?

Your account number alone is not enough for someone to withdraw money or make unauthorized transfers — they would also need your routing number and typically additional verification. However, only share your account number with trusted sources like your employer for direct deposit or a business you're paying intentionally.