Your account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal, and on statements your bank mails you

The easiest place to look is the bottom of a check from your checking account. You will see a series of numbers printed in magnetic ink. The account number is usually the middle set of digits — typically 8 to 12 numbers long. If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for a section labeled "Account Details," "My Accounts," or "Account Information." Your account number will be listed there alongside your account type and balance.

If you do not have online access yet, call your bank's customer service number (printed on your debit card or a statement) and ask them to read your account number to you. You can also visit a branch in person with your ID and ask a teller to write it down. Banks keep this information readily available because you will need it often — to set up direct deposit, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive wire transfers.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account number appears on the bottom left of your checks, between your routing number and a check number.
  • You can find it online by logging into your bank's website or app and navigating to your account details or account information section.
  • Paper statements mailed by your bank display your account number near the top, usually next to your account type.
  • If you cannot locate it yourself, call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch with your ID and they will provide it.

Finding it on a check

Look at the bottom of any check from your account. You will see three separate groups of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink. Reading from left to right, the first group is your bank's routing number, the middle group is your account number, and the third group is the check number itself.

The account number is usually 8 to 12 digits long, though this varies by bank. Write it down carefully — a single wrong digit will cause a transfer or deposit to fail. If you are unsure which set of numbers is your account number, the routing number is always nine digits, so the middle group that is not nine digits is your account number.

Finding it online or in your mobile app

Log into your bank's website using your username and password. Look for a menu option or tab that says "Accounts," "My Accounts," "Account Details," or "Account Information." Click on the account you want the number for — if you have both checking and savings, they will have separate account numbers. Your account number will be displayed on that page, usually near the top.

Most banks also show your account number in their mobile app. Open the app, tap the account you want, and look for a section labeled "Account Details" or an information icon. Some apps let you copy the number directly to your clipboard by tapping it, which is helpful if you need to paste it into a form.

Finding it on paper statements

If your bank mails you a monthly or quarterly statement, your account number is printed on it. Look near the top of the first page, usually on the right side. It will be labeled "Account Number" or "Account #" and displayed clearly. The statement also shows your routing number, account type (checking or savings), and your current balance.

Keep at least one statement in a safe place for your records. You may need to reference it later, and it serves as proof that you own the account if you ever need to dispute something or update your information.

Calling your bank to get the number

Find the customer service phone number on the back of your debit card, on a recent statement, or on your bank's website. Call and tell the representative you need your account number. They will ask you to verify your identity — usually by providing your full name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or a PIN you set up.

Once you are verified, they will read your account number to you. Ask them to repeat it slowly so you can write it down correctly. If you have multiple accounts at the same bank, ask for the number of each one and write down which is which (checking, savings, money market, etc.).

Getting it at a bank branch

Visit any branch of your bank during business hours with a valid ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Tell a teller that you need your account number. They will look it up in their system and either write it on a piece of paper for you or point you to where it appears on your statement or debit card.

This is a quick process and does not require an appointment. If you are opening a new account and have not received checks or a statement yet, the teller will provide your account number on the spot so you can begin using it right away.

What to do if you cannot find it

If you have lost access to your online account, do not have checks or statements, and cannot visit a branch, calling customer service is your best option. You will need to verify your identity, which usually takes a few minutes. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and any other identifying information ready before you call.

If you are having trouble logging into your online account, most banks have a "Forgot Password" or "Forgot Username" link on their login page. Use that to reset your access, and then you can find your account number yourself. If you are locked out for security reasons, customer service can help you regain access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my account number the same as my debit card number?

No. Your debit card number is a 16-digit number printed on the front of the card. Your account number is separate and is usually 8 to 12 digits. You need your account number for bank transfers and direct deposit, not your card number.

Can I use my account number online to make purchases?

No. Your account number is for bank-to-bank transfers and direct deposit only. To make purchases online, you use your debit card number, expiration date, and CVV. Never share your account number with a merchant or website.

Do I have a different account number for each type of account?

Yes. If you have a checking account and a savings account at the same bank, each one has its own account number. When you need to move money between them or set up a transfer, make sure you are using the correct number for the account you want to move money from or to.

What if I see multiple account numbers listed online?

You likely have more than one account at your bank. Each account — checking, savings, money market, or credit card — has its own number. Look for labels next to each number that say what type of account it is, so you use the right one for what you need to do.

Is it safe to write down my account number?

Yes, it is safe to write down your account number and keep it in a find place like a home safe or locked drawer. Your account number alone cannot be used to withdraw money or make purchases. You also need your PIN or online password to access your account, so writing down just the number is not a security risk.