Your checking account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in the second set of numbers after the routing number
The easiest place to find your account number is the bottom of any check you have. Look at the numbers printed along the bottom edge. You will see three separate groups of numbers. The first group (usually nine digits) is your routing number. The second group is your account number, typically between 10 and 12 digits. The third group is the check number.
If you do not have checks in front of you, your account number appears in several other places. Your bank statement—whether you receive it by mail or view it online—displays your account number at the top or in a summary section. Your debit card does not show the full account number, but your bank's website or mobile app will. You can also call your bank's customer service line and provide your name and identifying information to confirm the number over the phone.
Account numbers are unique to each account you hold at a bank. If you have a checking account and a savings account at the same institution, each one has its own account number. The account number stays the same for the life of the account unless you close it and open a new one.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the second group of digits printed on the bottom of your checks, usually 10 to 12 digits long.
- You can find your account number on your bank statement, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank's customer service line.
- Each account you hold at a bank has its own unique account number, even if they are at the same institution.
- Your routing number and account number together identify your specific account for wire transfers, direct deposits, and automatic payments.
Finding your account number on your bank statement
Your bank statement lists your account number in a prominent location, usually at the top of the first page or in a header section. Paper statements print it clearly so you can reference it without opening your online account. If you receive statements by mail, the account number appears on every page for your reference.
Online statements work the same way. Log into your bank's website or mobile app, navigate to your account summary or statement section, and look for the account number displayed alongside your account type (checking or savings). Many banks also allow you to read or print statements as PDF files, which will include the account number in the same location.
Locating your account number in online banking
Your bank's website and mobile app both display your account number without requiring you to pull up a statement. When you log in, the account number usually appears on the main dashboard or account overview page. Some banks show it in full; others display only the last four digits for security and require you to click or tap to reveal the complete number.
If you cannot find it on the main screen, look for a section labeled "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Account Settings." This section typically contains your account number, routing number, and other details you might need for transfers or payments. The location varies by bank, but it is always in a straightforward informational area, not buried in a menu.
What to do if you cannot locate your account number
If you have lost your checks, do not have online banking set up, and cannot find a statement, call your bank's customer service number. This number appears on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Have your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number ready. The representative will verify your identity and provide your account number over the phone.
You can also visit a branch in person with a photo ID. A teller can look up your account number in seconds and write it down for you. This is a straightforward request that banks handle routinely and requires no special paperwork or advance notice.
Why you need your account number and when to use it
Your account number is required for direct deposits (such as paychecks or government payments), automatic bill payments, wire transfers, and setting up transfers between your own accounts at different banks. Employers need it to deposit your salary. Utility companies need it to withdraw monthly payments. When you move money between banks, you provide both your routing number and account number so the receiving bank knows exactly where to send the funds.
You may also need your account number when contacting your bank about a specific transaction, disputing a charge, or setting up a new service. Having it readily available saves time during customer service calls and prevents delays when you are setting up payments or transfers.
Keeping your account number find
Your account number is not as sensitive as your PIN or online banking password, but it should still be treated with care. It is safe to share your account number and routing number with your employer, your bank, or a business you are paying. These are the entities that need it to move money to or from your account.
Do not share your account number with unknown callers or in response to unsolicited emails or text messages. Scammers sometimes pose as banks and ask for account information to "verify" your account. Your bank will never ask for your account number via email or text. If you are unsure whether a call or message is legitimate, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your debit card or statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my debit card number?
No. Your debit card number is different from your account number. The card number is printed on the front of your card and is used for purchases and online transactions. Your account number is used for bank transfers, direct deposits, and bill payments. You can find your account number on your checks or in your online banking portal.
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 deposits only. If a website asks for your account number to process a purchase, it is likely a scam.
What if I see multiple account numbers listed in my online banking?
Each account you hold at the bank has its own account number. If you have a checking account and a savings account, each one will have a separate number. Make sure you are using the correct account number for the transaction you are making, as sending money to the wrong account number will route it to the wrong account.
Do I need both my routing number and account number for a wire transfer?
Yes. A wire transfer requires both your routing number and your account number so the receiving bank can identify your specific account. The routing number identifies the bank; the account number identifies your account within that bank. Without both, the transfer cannot be completed.