Your checking account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it in your bank's app or online portal

The account number is a unique identifier your bank assigns to your specific checking account. It is different from your routing number — the routing number identifies your bank, while the account number identifies your account within that bank. You will need both numbers together to receive wire transfers, set up direct deposit, or authorize automatic payments.

The fastest way to find it is to look at a check you have on hand. If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app — the account number appears in the account details section, usually on the main dashboard or under "Account Information". You can also call your bank's customer service line and they will read it to you over the phone.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account number appears on the bottom left of any check you have, printed after the routing number and before the check number.
  • If you do not have checks, log into your bank's app or website and look for the account details or account information section.
  • The account number is typically 8 to 12 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank.
  • You need both your routing number and account number together to set up direct deposit, wire transfers, or automatic bill payments.

Finding it on a physical check

If you have a checkbook, the account number is printed on the bottom of every check. Look at the bottom left edge of the check. You will see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group is your routing number (nine digits), the second group is your account number, and the third group is the check number.

The account number is usually 8 to 12 digits long depending on your bank, though some banks use different lengths. Write down the full number exactly as it appears — do not skip any digits or zeros at the beginning. If the print is faded or hard to read, you can verify it by logging into your online banking or calling your bank.

Finding it in your bank's app or website

Log into your bank's mobile app or website using your username and password. On the main dashboard or home screen, you will see a list of your accounts. Click on or tap the checking account you want the number for. The account number will appear in the account details section — it may be labeled "Account Number", "Account ID", or straightforward shown at the top of the account summary.

Some banks hide the full account number for security and show only the last four digits on the main screen. If you see only partial digits, click "View Full Account Number" or a similar link, or go to the account settings or account information page. You may need to verify your identity with a security question or code sent to your phone before the full number displays.

Calling your bank to get the number

If you cannot access your account online or do not have checks, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Have your account holder name, Social Security number, and a form of ID ready. The representative will verify your identity and then read your account number to you.

This method takes longer than looking it up yourself, but it is useful if you are locked out of your online account or need the number urgently. Write down the number the representative gives you and ask them to repeat it to confirm you have it correct.

What to do with your account number once you have it

Once you have your account number, keep it in a safe place. You will need it paired with your routing number to set up direct deposit from an employer, receive wire transfers from another bank, or authorize automatic bill payments. Never share your account number with someone you do not trust, though it is generally safe to give it to your employer's payroll department or to a business you are paying.

If you are concerned your account number has been compromised, contact your bank when ready. They can monitor the account for unauthorized activity and issue you a new account number if necessary, though this is rare and usually only done in cases of fraud.

The difference between account number and routing number

Your routing number identifies which bank you use — it is the same for all customers of that bank. Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Think of the routing number as the bank's address and the account number as your mailbox number at that address.

When you provide banking information to someone, you almost always need both numbers. A routing number alone tells the sender which bank to send money to, but without the account number, the bank will not know which account to deposit it into. Some forms ask for them separately; others ask for them together as a single string of digits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to give someone my account number?

It is generally safe to give your account number to your employer, a business you are paying, or your bank. These entities need it to move money to or from your account. However, do not share it with someone you do not know or trust, and never share it in response to an unsolicited email or phone call claiming to be from your bank.

What if I cannot find my account number anywhere?

Call your bank's customer service line. Have your identification ready. They will verify who you are and provide the number. This is the most reliable method if you have lost your checks and cannot access your online account.

Can I change my account number?

You cannot change your account number yourself. If you believe your account number has been compromised or used fraudulently, contact your bank. They can investigate and may issue you a new account number, though this is uncommon and usually only happens in cases of confirmed fraud.

Do I need my account number to use my debit card?

No. Your debit card has its own number printed on the front, separate from your account number. You use the card number for purchases and ATM withdrawals. You only need your account number when someone needs to deposit money directly into your account or when you are setting up automatic payments.