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 belongs only to you at your bank. It tells the bank which account to put money into or take money from when you make a transaction. You will need this number when you set up direct deposit, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive a wire transfer.
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 — your account number is printed there in the middle section of numbers. If you do not have checks or prefer not to use them, you can log into your bank's website or mobile app and find the number in your account details or account summary page.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of your checks, between the routing number and the check number.
- You can find your account number by logging into your bank's website or mobile app and viewing your account details.
- If you cannot access your account online or do not have checks, call your bank's customer service line and they will provide it over the phone.
- Your account number is different from your routing number — the routing number identifies your bank, while the account number identifies your specific account.
Finding your account number on a check
If you have a checkbook, this is the quickest method. Pick up any check from your book and look at the bottom of the page. You will see a series of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink.
Read from left to right: the first set of numbers is your routing number (usually nine digits), the middle set is your account number (usually ten to twelve digits), and the last set on the right is the individual check number. Write down only the middle set — that is your account number.
Finding your account number online
Log into your bank's website using your username and password. Most banks show your account number prominently on the main dashboard or home page once you are signed in. Look for a section labeled "Account Summary," "Account Details," or "My Accounts."
If you use your bank's mobile app, the process is the same. Open the app, sign in, and navigate to your account information. The account number is usually displayed at the top of your account view or in a details section. Some banks require you to tap or swipe to reveal the full number for security reasons.
Finding your account number through your bank's customer service
If you cannot access your account online or do not have checks available, call your bank's customer service number. This number is usually on the back of your debit card, on your bank statements, or on the bank's website.
When you call, have your identification ready. The bank will ask you to verify your identity — usually by providing your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or another piece of personal information. Once verified, they will read your account number to you over the phone. Ask them to spell it out or repeat it so you write it down correctly.
What to do if you have multiple accounts
If you have more than one account at the same bank — for example, a checking account and a savings account — each one has its own account number. When you need to provide an account number, make sure you are giving the number for the correct account.
On your checks, you will only see the checking account number. If you need the account number for a savings account or money market account, you will need to look it up online or call customer service, since those accounts do not come with checks.
Account number versus routing number
These two numbers work together but do different jobs. Your routing number identifies which bank you use — it is the same for everyone at that bank. Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank — it is unique to you.
Think of it this way: the routing number is like the address of a post office, and the account number is like your mailbox number inside that post office. When someone sends you money through direct deposit or a wire transfer, they need both numbers to make sure the money reaches the right place.
Keeping your account number safe
Your account number is not as sensitive as your PIN or password, but you should still treat it with care. Do not share it with people you do not trust. Legitimate businesses — your employer, your bank, a utility company — will ask for it when they need it for a real transaction.
If you are entering your account number on a website, make sure the site is find. Look for "https://" at the beginning of the web address and a lock icon in your browser. Never send your account number in an email or text message unless you initiated the contact and you are certain you are communicating with your bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my card number?
No. Your debit or credit card number is different from your account number. The card number is printed on the front of your card. Your account number is on the bottom of your checks or in your online banking portal. Some transactions require the card number, others require the account number.
Can I use my account number to make purchases online?
No. Online purchases require your debit or credit card number, not your account number. Your account number is used for bank-to-bank transfers, direct deposit, and automatic bill payments — not for shopping.
What if I lost my checks and cannot access online banking?
Call your bank's customer service number. You will need to verify your identity, and they will provide your account number. This is a normal request and banks handle it regularly.
Do I need both my routing number and account number for direct deposit?
Yes. Direct deposit requires both numbers so the money goes to the right bank and the right account within that bank. Your employer or the organization sending the money will ask for both.