Your account number is a unique identifier for your specific bank account, separate from your routing number
Your account number is the number that identifies your individual account at your bank. It is different from your routing number, which identifies the bank itself. Think of it this way: the routing number is like the address of a bank branch, and your account number is like your apartment number inside that building.
You need your account number when you set up direct deposit, pay bills online, or receive money from someone else. It tells the banking system exactly which account the money should go into. Your account number is usually between 8 and 12 digits long, though the length varies by bank.
Your account number is not secret in the way a password is, but you should not share it casually. Anyone with your account number and routing number can set up automatic payments from your account, so treat it the same way you would treat information you would not want a stranger to have.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal, and on statements your bank sends you.
- The account number identifies your specific account; the routing number identifies your bank, and you need both for most money transfers.
- If you cannot find your account number, call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person with your ID.
- You may have different account numbers for different accounts at the same bank — a checking account and a savings account each have their own number.
Finding your account number on a check
If you have a checkbook, your account number is printed on the bottom of every check. Look at the bottom left side of the check. You will see three groups of numbers separated by colons or special symbols. The middle group is your routing number. The group after that is your account number.
The account number is usually the longest group of numbers on the bottom of the check. It comes after the routing number and before a final short number (which is the check number itself). If you are unsure which group is which, your bank's customer service team can confirm it over the phone.
Finding your account number online
Log into your bank's website or mobile app using your username and password. Your account number usually appears on the main dashboard or account summary page, sometimes labeled as "Account Number" or "Account ID." It may also be listed under a section called "Account Details" or "Account Information."
If you have multiple accounts at the same bank — for example, a checking account and a savings account — each one will have its own account number. The online portal will show you the number for whichever account you are currently viewing. Switch between accounts to see each number.
Finding your account number on a bank statement
Your bank sends you a statement each month, either by mail or email. Open the statement and look at the top of the first page. Your account number is usually printed near your name and address, often labeled as "Account Number" or "Account #."
Paper statements and electronic statements both include this information in the same place. If you receive statements by email, you can search the PDF for "account" to find it quickly.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
Call your bank's customer service line. The number is on the back of your debit card, on your statements, or on your bank's website. Tell the representative you need your account number. They will ask you to verify your identity — usually by providing your name, address, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or your date of birth.
You can also visit a branch in person with a photo ID. A teller can write down your account number for you on the spot. This is often the fastest option if you need the number right away.
Account numbers for different types of accounts
If you have a checking account and a savings account at the same bank, each account has its own number. When you set up direct deposit, make sure you are using the account number for the account where you want the money to go. Using the wrong account number will send your paycheck to the wrong place.
The same is true if you have a money market account, certificate of deposit (CD), or any other type of account. Each one gets its own account number. Your online banking portal will show you all your accounts and their numbers in one place, so you can see them side by side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my card number?
No. Your debit card or credit card has its own number printed on the front. Your account number is different and is not printed on your card. You can find your account number on checks, statements, or in your online banking portal.
Can someone take money from my account if they have my account number?
They would need both your account number and your routing number to set up a transfer or automatic payment. Even with both numbers, most banks require additional verification before allowing large transfers. Never share these numbers with someone you do not trust, but do not panic if a number is seen by accident.
What if my account number changes?
Your account number does not change unless you close the account and open a new one. If you close an account and open a new one at the same bank, you will get a new account number. You will need to update any automatic payments or direct deposit instructions with the new number.
Do I need my account number to use my debit card?
No. You use your debit card number, expiration date, and CVV to make purchases in stores or online. Your account number is only needed for transfers, direct deposit, bill payments, and other banking transactions that happen behind the scenes.