Your checking account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank

The easiest place to look is the bottom of a check you have from your account. The account number appears after the routing number — it is the longer string of digits, usually 10 to 12 numbers. If you do not have checks handy, log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for "Account Details" or "Account Information." Your account number will be listed there. If you cannot access online banking, call your bank's customer service line (the number is on your debit card or on your bank's website) and give them your name and identification — they will read it to you.

Your account number is unique to you and your specific account at that bank. It is different from your routing number, which is the same for everyone at your bank. You need both numbers together when you set up direct deposit, arrange wire transfers, or give someone permission to withdraw money from your account.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account number appears on the bottom left of your checks, after the routing number and before the check number.
  • You can find your account number by logging into your bank's website or app and looking for account details or account information.
  • Calling your bank's customer service line and providing your name and identification will get you your account number over the phone.
  • Your account number is specific to one account at one bank — if you have multiple accounts, each one has its own number.

Finding it on a check

If you have a checkbook, this is the fastest way. Look at the bottom of any check. You will see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines or special symbols. The first group (usually nine digits) is your routing number. The second group is your account number — this is the one you need. The third group is the check number itself.

The account number is typically 10 to 12 digits long, though this varies by bank. Write it down carefully, because a single wrong digit will cause a direct deposit to fail or a payment to go to the wrong place.

Finding it online

Log into your bank's website or mobile app using your username and password. Look for a section called "Account Details," "Account Information," "My Accounts," or sometimes just "Accounts." Your account number will be displayed there, usually near your account balance and recent transactions.

Some banks show the full account number; others show only the last four digits for security. If you see only the last four digits, you can click on that section or look for a link that says "View Full Account Number" or "Show Account Number." You may need to enter your password again for security.

Calling your bank to get it

If you do not have checks or cannot access online banking, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or the number listed on your bank's website. Have your name, date of birth, and a form of identification ready — the bank will ask you to verify who you are before they give you any account information.

Tell the representative that you need your account number. They will read it to you. Ask them to spell it out or repeat it so you can write it down correctly. This call is free and usually takes less than five minutes.

What to do if you cannot find it

If you have lost your checks, cannot log into online banking, and do not have your debit card, you can still visit a branch in person. Bring a photo ID and ask a teller for your account number. They will look it up in their system and provide it to you when ready.

If you have forgotten your online banking password, most banks have a "Forgot Password" link on their login page. You can reset it using your email address or phone number, and then log in to find your account number. This usually takes a few minutes.

Keeping your account number safe

Your account number is sensitive information. Do not share it with anyone unless you are setting up a legitimate transaction like direct deposit or a bill payment. Scammers sometimes call or email pretending to be from your bank and ask for your account number — your real bank will never ask for it this way.

If someone asks for your account number and you are not sure whether they are legitimate, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your debit card or statement. Do not use a phone number from an email or text message, because scammers can fake those.

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 what the bank uses internally to identify your checking account. You need the account number for direct deposits and transfers, not the card number.

Can I use my account number to withdraw money from an ATM?

No. ATMs require your debit card and PIN. Your account number alone cannot be used at an ATM. However, someone who has both your account number and routing number can set up automatic withdrawals from your account, which is why you should not share these numbers with people you do not trust.

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 will see all your accounts listed separately, each with its own number. Make sure you are looking at the correct account before you write down the number.

Do I need my account number to open a new account?

No. When you open a new account, the bank will assign you a new account number. You do not need an existing account number to start the process. You will need a photo ID and proof of address.