Your bank account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank's customer service line
The fastest way is to look at a check from your account. The account number appears at the bottom, usually after the routing number and before the check number. If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app — most show your account number on the account summary or details page. If you cannot access online banking, call the phone number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website; a representative can read it to you over the phone.
You need your account number for direct deposits, wire transfers, setting up bill pay, and providing it to employers or government agencies sending you money. Having it on hand saves time when you are on the phone with customer service or filling out forms for tax refunds, stimulus payments, or insurance reimbursements.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of any check you have, after the routing number.
- Online banking portals and mobile apps display your account number on the account details or summary screen.
- Calling your bank's customer service line — the number is on your debit card or bank statement — gets you the number in minutes.
- You will need your account number when setting up direct deposit for refunds, payments, or payroll.
Finding your account number on a check
Open your checkbook and look at any check. At the bottom of the check, you will see a series of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink format. The first set of numbers is your routing number (usually nine digits). Immediately after that is your account number, which is typically 10 to 12 digits long. The third set of numbers is the check number itself.
The account number is the middle set — do not confuse it with the routing number that comes first or the check number that comes last. If your checks are old or faded, the numbers may be hard to read; in that case, use one of the other methods below.
Checking your online banking account
Log into your bank's website or open the mobile app. Most banks display your account number prominently on the main account page or under an "Account Details" or "Account Information" section. Some banks require you to click on the specific account if you have multiple accounts with them.
If you cannot find it on the main page, look for a menu option labeled "Account Settings," "My Accounts," or "Account Summary." The account number is usually listed alongside your account type (checking, savings, money market) and your current balance. Take a screenshot or write it down so you have it when you need it for forms or phone calls.
Calling your bank directly
If you do not have checks and cannot access online banking, call your bank's customer service number. This number is printed on the back of your debit card, on your most recent bank statement, or on your bank's website. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and the answer to any security questions ready — the bank will verify your identity before giving you the account number.
Customer service representatives can read your account number to you over the phone, and some can also email or text it to you if you request it. The call usually takes fewer than five minutes once you are connected to a representative.
What to do if you cannot locate your account number
If you have lost access to your checks, cannot log into online banking, and do not have a debit card, visit your bank in person with a photo ID. A teller can look up your account and provide the number immediately. This is also the best option if you suspect your account number has been compromised or used fraudulently.
If you are trying to retrieve an account number for a bank account you no longer use, contact the bank directly — they keep records of closed accounts and can provide the number if you can verify your identity. This is important if you are tracking down an old refund or payment that was sent to that account.
Using your account number safely
Your account number, combined with your routing number, allows someone to set up transfers or payments from your account. Do not share it with people you do not trust, and be cautious about typing it into websites you are not certain about. Legitimate government agencies and established companies will not ask for your account number via email or unsolicited phone calls.
When you provide your account number to receive a refund or payment, make sure you are dealing directly with the organization sending the money — not a third-party website claiming to speed up the process. The IRS, state tax agencies, and insurance companies send refunds directly to the bank account you provide; they do not charge fees or require you to use a middleman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank (usually nine digits), while your account number identifies your specific account at that bank (typically 10 to 12 digits). Both appear on the bottom of your checks, with the routing number first and the account number second.
Can I use my debit card number instead of my account number?
No. Your debit card number is different from your account number. For direct deposits and bank transfers, you need your actual account number and routing number. Debit card numbers are for card purchases and ATM withdrawals, not for routing money into your account.
What if I have multiple accounts at the same bank?
Each account has its own account number. When you log into online banking, you will see all your accounts listed separately, each with its own number. Make sure you use the correct account number for the account where you want the refund or payment to go.
Do I need my account number to check my bank balance?
No. You can check your balance by logging into online banking, using your bank's mobile app, calling the automated phone line, or visiting an ATM. You only need your account number when you are setting up transfers, direct deposits, or providing it to another organization.