Your account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it online through your bank's website or app

Your account number is a unique identifier that belongs only to you at your bank. It tells the bank which account to put money into or take money out of. You will need it when you set up direct deposit, arrange wire transfers, or give someone permission to send you money. The fastest way to find it is to look at a check from your checkbook — the account number is the middle set of digits on the bottom of the check, between the routing number on the left and the check number on the right.

If you do not have checks, you can find your account number by logging into your bank's website or mobile app. Most banks display it on the main account page or in an "Account Details" or "Account Information" section. You can also call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person and ask a teller to give you the number.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account number appears on the bottom left of any check you have, printed as the middle set of digits between the routing number and check number.
  • You can view your account number by logging into your bank's website or app and looking for an account details or account information section.
  • Calling your bank's customer service number or visiting a branch will get you your account number within minutes if you do not have checks or online access.
  • Your account number is different from your routing number — the routing number identifies your bank, while the account number identifies your specific account.

Finding your number on a check

The bottom of a check contains three sets of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first set on the left is your bank's routing number. The middle set is your account number. The third set on the right is the check number itself. The account number is usually between 8 and 12 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank.

If you have a checkbook but have not written any checks yet, you can still use a blank check from the back of the book. The numbers printed on a blank check are the same as the numbers on any check you would write. You do not need to fill in the check itself — you just need to read the numbers on the bottom.

Looking it up online or through your bank's app

Most banks make your account number visible as soon as you log in. On a computer, go to your bank's website, sign in with your username and password, and look at the main dashboard or home page. Your account number is usually displayed near your account balance, sometimes labeled as "Account Number" or "Account ID."

On a mobile app, the account number often appears on the first screen after you log in, or you may need to tap on your account name or a menu option that says "Account Details," "Account Information," or "My Accounts." If you cannot find it in these places, look for a settings menu or help section within the app.

Calling your bank or visiting in person

If you do not have checks and cannot access your bank's website or app, you can call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Tell the representative that you need your account number. They will ask you to verify your identity — usually by providing your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or the answer to a security question you set up when you opened the account.

You can also walk into any branch of your bank during business hours and ask a teller for your account number. Bring a photo ID. The teller will look it up in the system and give it to you on the spot. This is often the fastest option if you are in a hurry.

What to do if you have multiple accounts

If you have more than one account at the same bank — for example, a checking account and a savings account — each one has its own account number. When you look at your checks, you will see only the account number for your checking account. To find the account number for your savings account or any other account, you will need to log into your online banking, check your app, or call customer service and ask for the specific account number.

When you are setting up direct deposit or giving someone permission to send you money, make sure you give them the correct account number for the account where you want the money to go. Using the wrong account number will send the money to the wrong place, and it can take time to recover it.

Keeping your account number safe

Your account number is not a secret like a password, but you should still be thoughtful about who you give it to. You will need to share it with your employer for direct deposit, with the Social Security Administration if you receive benefits, or with anyone else sending you money. However, do not post it on social media or share it with people you do not trust.

If someone asks for your account number and you are not sure why they need it, ask them to explain. Legitimate businesses and government agencies will have a clear reason for asking. If you think someone has your account number and you did not give it to them, contact your bank right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my account number the same as my routing number?

No. Your routing number identifies which bank you use — all customers at the same bank share the same routing number. Your account number identifies your specific account at that bank. You need both numbers together for direct deposit or wire transfers.

Can someone take money from my account if they have my account number?

Not with just the account number alone. They would also need your routing number and usually some form of authorization from you. However, if someone has both your account number and routing number, they could potentially set up unauthorized transfers, so contact your bank when ready if you think your account information has been compromised.

What if I cannot remember my online banking password?

You can reset your password through your bank's website — look for a "Forgot Password" link on the login page. You will need to verify your identity using information like your date of birth or answers to security questions. If you cannot reset it online, call your bank's customer service line and they can help you regain access.

Do I need my account number to use my debit card?

No. Your debit card has its own number printed on the front, and that is what you use to make purchases or withdraw cash. You only need your account number when you are setting up direct deposit, arranging transfers between accounts, or giving someone permission to deposit money directly into your account.