Your account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your bank's mobile app, and on your monthly statement
The easiest place to look is the bottom left corner of any check you have. The account number appears after the routing number and before the check number. If you don't have checks handy, log into your bank's website or mobile app — your account number is almost always visible on the dashboard or in an account details section. Your monthly bank statement, whether paper or digital, also lists it near the top.
If none of those options work, call your bank's customer service line. The number is on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. You'll need to verify your identity with your Social Security number or other information before they read it to you over the phone.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of checks, right after the routing number and before the check number.
- Log into your bank's website or app to find your account number on the account summary or details page.
- Your monthly statement lists the account number near the top, whether you receive it by mail or email.
- Call your bank's customer service line if you can't locate it anywhere else; the number is on your debit card or the bank's website.
- Never share your account number with anyone who contacts you unsolicited, even if they claim to be from your bank.
Finding it on a check
Look at the bottom of any check. You'll see three sets of numbers printed in magnetic ink. The first set is your routing number (nine digits). The second set, which comes right after, is your account number. The third set is the check number itself.
The account number is usually between 10 and 12 digits long, though this varies by bank. It's the middle number of the three, and it's the one you need when setting up direct deposit, wire transfers, or automatic bill payments.
Checking your bank's website or app
Log into your account on your bank's website or open the mobile app. Most banks display your account number prominently on the main dashboard or home screen, often labeled "Account Number" or "Account Details." If you don't see it there, look for a menu option like "Account Information," "My Accounts," or "Account Settings."
Some banks require you to click into a specific account if you have multiple accounts with them. Once you're viewing the right account, the number should be visible without any additional steps. If your bank's interface is unfamiliar, the help section or a quick search within the app can point you to the right page.
Locating it on your monthly statement
Your bank statement — whether you receive it by mail or download it as a PDF — lists your account number near the top of the document. It's usually printed on the first page, often in a section labeled "Account Information" or next to your name and address.
If you receive paper statements, check the most recent one in your files. If you've switched to digital statements, log into your bank's website and download a recent statement. The account number appears in the same place on every statement your bank sends you.
Calling your bank directly
If you can't find your account number through any of the methods above, call your bank's customer service line. The phone number is printed on the back of your debit card, on your bank's website, or on any statement you have on file.
Be ready to verify your identity. The bank will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions you set up when you opened the account. Once you're verified, a representative can read your account number to you. Write it down as they say it to make sure you have it correct.
What to do if you've lost access to your account
If you can't log into your bank's website or app, and you don't have any statements or checks, you can still call the bank's main customer service line. You may need to answer more security questions or provide additional identification, but the bank can verify who you are and give you your account number.
Some banks also allow you to visit a branch in person with a photo ID. A teller can look up your account and provide the number on the spot. This is often the fastest option if you have a branch nearby and need the number right away.
Why you need this number and where it goes
Your account number is required for direct deposit setup, wire transfers, automatic bill payments, and when you're sending money to someone else's account. It's also needed if you're setting up a payment plan with a creditor or receiving a refund that's being deposited directly into your bank account.
Your account number is safe to share with legitimate businesses and government agencies that need it for these purposes. However, never give it to someone who contacts you unsolicited, even if they claim to be from your bank. Real banks never ask for your account number by phone or email unless you initiated the contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your routing number identifies which bank you use (nine digits), while your account number identifies your specific account at that bank (usually 10 to 12 digits). Both appear on the bottom of your checks, but in different positions. You need both numbers for direct deposit and wire transfers.
Can someone access my account if they have my account number?
Not without additional information. Your account number alone is not enough to withdraw money or transfer funds. Banks also require your PIN, password, or other verification to authorize transactions. However, don't share your account number with strangers or unsolicited callers.
What if the account number on my check doesn't match what's in my app?
Contact your bank immediately. This usually means either the check is from an old account that's been closed, or there's an error in the bank's system. A customer service representative can clarify which number is correct and current for your active account.
Do I need my account number to open a new account at the same bank?
No. When opening a new account, the bank will assign you a new account number. You don't need your old account number unless you're transferring money from an existing account to the new one, in which case you'll provide it during the transfer setup.
Where do I find my account number if I bank online only?
Log into your online bank's website or app and look for your account details or account information section. Online banks display the account number the same way traditional banks do. If you can't find it, call the bank's customer service line — the number is on their website.