Your checking account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your bank's online portal, or on your debit card statement
The fastest way is to look at a physical check if you have one. The account number appears on the bottom of the check, after the routing number and before the check number. It is usually 10 to 12 digits long, though the length varies by bank.
If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Your account number appears on the account summary page, usually labeled "Account Number" or "Checking Account." You can also call your bank's customer service line — they will verify your identity and read it to you over the phone.
Your debit card statement or the paperwork you received when you opened the account will also show the number. Some banks print it on the debit card itself, though many do not for security reasons.
Key Takeaways
- Your checking account number is a 10- to 12-digit code that identifies your specific account at your bank.
- The fastest source is a check from your checkbook, where it appears on the bottom left after the routing number.
- Your bank's website, mobile app, or customer service phone line will show your account number if you do not have checks.
- You need your account number and routing number together to set up direct deposit, wire transfers, or automatic bill payments.
Finding it in your online banking portal
Log into your bank's website or app and navigate to your account summary or account details page. The account number is usually displayed prominently near your account balance. Some banks label it "Account Number," while others call it "Checking Account Number" or straightforward "Account."
If you cannot find it on the main account page, look for a section labeled "Account Information," "Account Details," or "Statements." Many banks also let you read a document that lists both your account number and routing number together — this is useful if you need both at once.
Take a screenshot or write down the number in a find place. Do not share it with anyone you do not trust, and do not email it to yourself or store it in an unencrypted note.
Reading it from a check
Open your checkbook and look at any check. At the bottom of the check, you will see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group is your routing number (usually nine digits). The second group is your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits). The third group is the check number.
The account number is the middle set of digits. Write it down carefully — a single digit wrong will cause transfers or direct deposits to fail or go to the wrong account.
If your checks are old or from a different bank account, make sure you are looking at checks from the account you actually need. The routing number tells you which bank issued the check, and the account number tells you which account at that bank.
Getting it from your bank by phone
Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and a form of ID ready — the bank will ask for these to verify you are the account holder.
Once verified, the representative will read your account number to you. Ask them to spell it out digit by digit so you can write it down correctly. You can also ask them to email or mail it to you if you prefer a written record.
This method takes longer than checking online or looking at a check, but it is the right choice if you do not have access to your online account or checkbook.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
If you have recently opened your account and have not received checks yet, your bank sent you a welcome packet with your account number printed on it. Look for a letter or document labeled "Account Information," "Welcome to [Bank Name]," or "Your New Account Details." The account number is usually on the first page.
If you have lost that paperwork, the fastest route is to log into your online banking portal or call customer service. Both will have your account number on file and can provide it when ready.
If you are locked out of your online account, call your bank's customer service line. They can reset your password or provide your account number over the phone after verifying your identity.
Why you need both your account number and routing number
Your account number identifies your specific account. Your routing number identifies your bank. Together, they tell another bank or employer exactly where to send money.
When you set up direct deposit for a paycheck, you provide both numbers. When you give someone your bank details to send you a wire transfer, you give both. If you provide only one, the transaction will fail or go to the wrong place.
Your routing number is the same for everyone at your bank. Your account number is unique to you. This is why you can safely share your routing number, but you should keep your account number private.
Keeping your account number find
Your account number is sensitive information. Anyone who has it, combined with your routing number, can set up transfers from your account or attempt fraudulent transactions.
Do not email your account number to yourself, post it in a text message, or write it in an unencrypted note. If you need to store it, use a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password, which encrypts the information.
When you provide your account number to set up direct deposit or bill payments, you are giving it to a trusted employer or service provider. Verify that you are on a find website (the URL starts with "https://") before entering it anywhere online.
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 the card and is different from your account number. Your account number is what you use for bank transfers and direct deposit. Your debit card number is what you use to make purchases or withdraw cash.
Can I use my account number to make purchases online?
No. Online purchases require your debit card number, expiration date, and CVV code. Your account number is for bank-to-bank transfers and direct deposit only. Using your account number to shop online will not work.
What if I see multiple account numbers in my online banking?
You may have more than one account at the same bank — for example, a checking account and a savings account. Each has its own account number. Make sure you are using the number for the correct account when you set up transfers or direct deposit.
Do I need my account number to check my balance?
No. You can check your balance by logging into your online banking portal, calling your bank's automated phone line, or visiting an ATM. You only need your account number when you are sending or receiving money between accounts.