Where to find your account number
Your bank account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, if you have them. It comes after the routing number and before the check number. If you do not have checks or cannot read them, log into your bank's website or mobile app — your account number appears on the account overview page, usually near the top.
You can also call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person. Have your ID ready. The representative will read it to you over the phone or write it down for you. Some banks text or email it to you if you ask.
Your account number is typically 8 to 12 digits long, though this varies by bank. It is unique to that specific account at that specific bank — if you have a checking account and a savings account at the same bank, each has its own number.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of your checks, after the routing number and before the check number.
- If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or app to find it on your account overview page.
- You can call your bank or visit a branch to have a representative give you the number.
- Account numbers are typically 8 to 12 digits and are unique to each account you hold at that bank.
What your account number is used for
Your account number, paired with your routing number, tells the banking system exactly which account money should move into or out of. When you set up direct deposit at work, you provide both numbers so your employer's bank knows where to send your paycheck. When you pay a bill online, you give the account number so the payment processor knows which account to pull the money from.
It is safe to share your account number with people and organizations that need to move money to or from your account — your employer, your landlord, a utility company, a lender. Sharing the account number alone does not let someone withdraw money without your permission. They need the routing number as well, and even then, most transactions require additional verification.
Account number vs. routing number
The routing number identifies your bank or credit union. The account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Together, they form the complete address for your account in the banking system.
On a check, the routing number is the first set of digits on the bottom left. The account number comes when ready after it. For example, a check might show: 021000021 (routing) 123456789 (account) 0001 (check number).
When you set up direct deposit or automatic payments, you need both numbers. If you provide only the account number without the routing number, the transaction cannot be processed because the system does not know which bank to look in.
Finding your account number on different statements
Bank statements — whether you receive them by mail or view them online — print your account number at the top or in a header section. It usually appears next to the account type (checking, savings, money market) and your account holder name.
Debit cards do not print the account number on the card itself. The card number is different from your account number. If you need your account number and only have your debit card, use your online banking portal or call the bank.
Savings account books, if your bank still issues them, also show the account number on the cover or first page. Credit union members can find the account number on statements or by logging into their credit union's online system.
Keeping your account number find
Your account number is not a secret in the way a password is. You share it regularly with employers, billers, and lenders. However, you should not post it publicly on social media or email it to someone you do not know.
If you suspect someone has misused your account number, contact your bank when ready. The bank can monitor the account for unauthorized transactions and, if fraud occurs, can reverse the charges under consumer protection rules. You are not liable for unauthorized transfers if you report them promptly.
When you close an account, the account number becomes inactive. If someone tries to use an old account number after closure, the transaction will fail or be rejected by the bank.
What happens if you give out your account number
Giving your account number to a legitimate organization — your employer, your mortgage lender, a utility company — is normal and necessary. These organizations use it to move money to or from your account as part of a service you have requested.
If you give your account number to someone you do not trust or who contacts you unexpectedly asking for it, that is a warning sign. Legitimate companies rarely ask for your account number by phone or email unless you initiated the contact. If you are unsure, hang up and call the company directly using a phone number from their official website or your statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my card number?
No. Your debit card number is different from your account number. The card number is printed on the front of the card. Your account number is on your checks, statements, and in your online banking portal. They are separate identifiers.
Can someone withdraw money if they only have my account number?
Not without additional information. They need both your routing number and account number to initiate a transfer. Even then, most banks require verification or authorization from you before processing the transaction. If an unauthorized transfer occurs, contact your bank when ready.
What if I cannot find my account number anywhere?
Call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch with your ID. A representative can provide your account number when ready. You can also log into your online banking portal if you have set up an account — the number is displayed on the main page.
Do I need my account number to use my debit card?
No. You use your debit card number, not your account number, to make purchases or withdraw cash. Your account number is needed for direct deposit, bill payments, and transfers between accounts.
Can I change my account number?
No. Your account number is assigned by the bank when you open the account and cannot be changed. If you want a new account number, you would need to close the current account and open a new one, which is not practical for most people.