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 tells your bank which account is yours. It is different from your routing number — the routing number identifies your bank, while your account number identifies you within that bank. You will need both when setting up direct deposit, paying bills, or receiving money from someone else.
The fastest way to find it depends on what you have access to right now. If you have a checkbook, look at the bottom of any check. If you do not have checks or prefer not to use them, log into your bank's website or mobile app. You can also call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of your checks, after the routing number and before the check number.
- You can find your account number by logging into your bank's website or mobile app under account details or account information.
- Calling your bank's customer service line will connect you to someone who can read your account number to you over the phone.
- Your account number is safe to share with employers, bill payment services, and people sending you money — it cannot be used to withdraw funds without your permission.
Finding your account number on a check
If you have a checkbook, the easiest place to look is the bottom of any check. You will see three sets of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink. From left to right, they are: your routing number (nine digits), your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits), and your check number (the number of that specific check).
The account number is always in the middle. It may be shorter or longer than the routing number — that varies by bank. Write it down carefully, because a single digit wrong will send money to the wrong place or cause a payment to fail.
If you do not have checks yet, or if your checks are packed away, move to the next section instead of ordering new ones just to find this number.
Finding your account number online
Log into your bank's website using your username and password. Look for a section called "Account Details," "Account Information," "My Accounts," or "Account Summary" — the exact name varies by bank. Your account number will be displayed there, usually near your account type (like "Checking" or "Savings") and your current balance.
If you use your bank's mobile app, the process is the same. Open the app, sign in, and navigate to the account details section. Some banks show your full account number right on the home screen; others require you to tap into a specific account first.
Once you find it, you can take a screenshot, write it down, or copy it to a notes app on your phone. Keep it somewhere safe but accessible — you will need it more than once.
Calling your bank to get your account number
If you do not have online access or prefer to speak with someone, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement. Have your identification ready — the bank will ask you to verify who you are before giving out account information.
The wait time varies depending on how busy the bank is, but you should reach someone within a few minutes during business hours. Tell them you need your account number, and they will read it to you. Ask them to spell it out or repeat it so you get it right the first time.
Visiting a bank branch in person
If you prefer to handle this face-to-face, walk into any branch of your bank during business hours. Bring a photo ID. Tell the teller you need your account number, and they will look it up for you or print it on a receipt.
This is also a good time to ask questions about your account or to set up services you may need, like direct deposit or bill pay. The teller can walk you through those steps while you are there.
What to do if you cannot remember which bank you use
If you have a debit card, the bank name is printed on the front. If you have a recent bank statement, the bank name and your account number are both on it — check your email or look in your mailbox.
If you have neither, check your credit report through AnnualCreditReport.com. Your bank accounts may not appear there, but any loans or credit cards tied to that bank will show the bank's name. You can also search your email for messages from your bank, or call 211 to ask for help locating your bank.
Why you might need your account number
Your employer needs your account number to set up direct deposit, so your paycheck goes straight into your account instead of you having to deposit a paper check. Utility companies, insurance companies, and loan servicers need it to withdraw payments automatically on a schedule you agree to.
If someone is sending you money — a family member, a refund, a payment for something you sold — they will ask for your account number and routing number so they can transfer it to you electronically. This is much faster and safer than mailing a check.
Keeping your account number safe
Your account number is safe to share with anyone who needs to send you money or withdraw a payment you have authorized. It cannot be used to withdraw funds without your permission, and it is not the same as your PIN or password.
That said, do not post it on social media or share it with someone you do not trust. If you lose a check or a statement with your account number on it, do not worry — call your bank and they can issue you new checks or a new statement. If you think someone has your account number and may misuse it, contact your bank right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my card number?
No. Your card number is the 16-digit number on the front of your debit or credit card. Your account number is different and is not printed on the card itself. You can have multiple cards linked to the same account, but each card has its own number.
Can someone take money from my account if they have my account number?
Not without your permission. Your account number alone cannot be used to withdraw money. A person would also need your routing number, your PIN, your online password, or authorization from you to move funds. If you are worried about unauthorized activity, contact your bank when ready.
What if I have multiple accounts at the same bank?
Each account has its own unique account number. When you log into your bank's website or app, you will see all your accounts listed separately, each with its own number. Make sure you are looking at the right account before you share the number or use it for a transaction.
Do I need my account number to use an ATM?
No. You only need your debit card and your PIN to use an ATM. Your account number is needed for things like direct deposit, bill payments, and wire transfers — not for everyday ATM withdrawals or purchases.
What if my bank closed and I do not remember my account number?
If your bank was acquired by another bank, contact the new bank with your name and identification. They can look up your old account number in their records. If the bank truly closed, contact the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) at 877-275-3342 — they can help you locate your account information and any funds you had there.