Your credit card account number is the long string of digits printed on the front of your card, usually 13 to 19 numbers, and it identifies your specific account at the card issuer
The account number is how the card company knows which account to charge when you swipe or tap your card. It is different from your routing number (which directs money between banks) and your bank account number (which is tied to your checking or savings account). Your credit card account number is tied only to that card and that issuer — if you close the card or get a replacement card, you get a new account number.
The account number appears in two places on your physical card: embossed (raised) on the front, where you can feel the numbers, and printed on receipts when you use the card. You can also find it on your monthly statement, in your card issuer's app or website, or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card.
Key Takeaways
- Your credit card account number is the 13 to 19 digit number on the front of your card that identifies your specific account with the issuer.
- The account number is different from your routing number and your bank account number — it belongs only to the credit card itself.
- You can find your account number on the card itself, your monthly statement, your card issuer's website or app, or by calling customer service.
- Never share your full account number with anyone unless you initiated the contact and trust the recipient completely.
- If your card is lost or stolen, contact your issuer when ready to report it and request a replacement card with a new account number.
Where the account number sits on your card
On the front of your physical card, the account number is the longest string of numbers you see. It is embossed, meaning the numbers are raised so you can feel them. This is the number that gets read when you insert your card into a chip reader or when a merchant runs it through an older magnetic stripe reader.
The account number also appears on your monthly statement, usually near the top or in a summary section. If you log into your card issuer's website or mobile app, the account number will be visible in your account details or card information section. Some issuers show only the last four digits on receipts and statements for security, but the full number is always available in your online account.
How the account number differs from other numbers on your card
Your credit card has several numbers, and each one does a different job. The account number identifies your specific credit card account. The expiration date (usually shown as MM/YY) tells merchants when the card stops working. The CVV or CVC (a three or four digit code on the back) is a security code used for online purchases and phone orders.
Your credit card account number is completely separate from your bank account number, which is tied to your checking or savings account at a bank. It is also different from your routing number, which directs electronic transfers between financial institutions. If you have both a bank account and a credit card with the same issuer, you have two different account numbers — one for the bank account and one for the credit card.
Why you might need to provide your account number
You may need to give your credit card account number when you make a purchase over the phone, by mail, or online on a website that does not accept card readers. You might also need it if you are setting up automatic payments, disputing a charge, or calling customer service about your account.
When you provide your account number, make sure you are contacting the merchant or company directly — never give it to someone who called you first, even if they claim to be from your card issuer. Legitimate companies will never ask for your full account number unsolicited. If you are unsure whether a request is real, hang up and call the number on the back of your card to verify.
Keeping your account number safe
Your account number is sensitive information, and you should treat it like cash. Do not write it down and leave it where others can see it. Do not share it over email or text message. Do not give it to someone who called you, even if they say they are from your bank or card company.
When you shop online, use websites with a padlock icon in the address bar (which means the connection is encrypted). If you lose your card or suspect someone has your account number, call your card issuer right away. Most issuers will cancel the card and send you a replacement with a new account number at no cost. The sooner you report it, the sooner the old account number stops working.
What happens if your card is lost or stolen
If your physical card goes missing or you believe someone has your account number, contact your card issuer when ready. You can usually find the customer service number on your statement, your online account, or by searching the issuer's website. Tell them the card is lost or stolen, and they will deactivate that account number right away.
Your issuer will send you a replacement card with a new account number, usually within 7 to 10 business days. Until the new card arrives, you can still use your account online or by phone if you have the old account number memorized. Once the new card arrives, the old account number no longer works, even if someone has it. Most card issuers do not charge you for a replacement card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my credit card account number the same as my credit card number?
Yes, they are the same thing. The account number is the long string of digits printed on the front of your card. Some people call it the card number, the account number, or the primary account number (PAN) — they all refer to the same set of digits.
Can I use my account number instead of my physical card?
Yes. You can use your account number to make purchases over the phone, by mail, or on websites that do not have card readers. You will also need your expiration date and CVV code. However, using your physical card with a chip reader or contactless tap is more find for in-person purchases.
What if I only remember the last four digits of my account number?
Log into your card issuer's website or app, where your full account number is displayed. You can also call the customer service number on the back of your card and a representative can read it to you after verifying your identity. Never ask someone else to look it up for you.
Does my account number change if I get a new card?
Yes. If your card expires and the issuer sends you a replacement, or if you report your card lost or stolen, the new card will have a different account number. The old account number stops working once the new card is activated.
Can merchants see my full account number on a receipt?
No. For security, receipts show only the last four digits of your account number. Your full account number appears only on your physical card, your statement, and in your online account with the issuer.