Your bank account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, visible in your online banking portal, or available 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 don't have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app — most banks display your account number on the account summary or dashboard page. If neither option works, call the phone number on the back of your debit card or on your bank statement; a representative can read it to you in seconds.
You'll need your account number when setting up direct deposit for tax refunds, receiving insurance payouts, or authorizing automatic bill payments. Having it on hand saves time when you're on the phone with a government agency or financial institution.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is printed on the bottom left of any check you have from that account, after the routing number.
- Log into your bank's website or app to find your account number on your account summary or dashboard without needing a check.
- Call your bank's customer service line using the number on your debit card or bank statement to have a representative provide your account number.
- You need your account number and routing number together to set up direct deposit for refunds or automatic payments.
Finding your account number on a check
If you have a checkbook, open it and look at any check. At the bottom of the check, you'll see a series of numbers separated by colons or special symbols. The first set is your routing number (nine digits), the second set is your account number (usually 10 to 12 digits), and the third is the check number.
The account number is the middle set. Write it down or take a photo — you'll use it whenever you need to receive money directly into this account. The routing number goes with it; you need both together for direct deposit or wire transfers.
If your checks are old or you're not sure which number is which, your bank's website or a phone call will confirm it faster than guessing.
Accessing your account number online
Log into your bank's website using your username and password. Most banks display your account number prominently on the main account page, sometimes labeled "Account Number" or "Account Details." Some banks hide it behind a security step — you may need to click "View Full Account Number" or answer a security question first.
If you use your bank's mobile app, the account number is usually visible on the home screen or under an "Accounts" tab. The layout varies by bank, but it's typically one of the first pieces of information shown.
If you can't find it after logging in, look for a "Help" or "Contact Us" link within the app or website. Many banks offer live chat support during business hours, and a representative can walk you through exactly where to look in your specific bank's system.
Calling your bank for your account number
Find the customer service number on the back of your debit card, on a recent bank statement, or on your bank's website. Call during business hours — most banks operate Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in your time zone, though hours vary.
When you reach a representative, they'll ask you to verify your identity using your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions you set up when you opened the account. After verification, they'll read your account number to you. Have a pen ready or ask them to repeat it slowly so you can write it down correctly.
This method takes 5 to 10 minutes total and is useful if you're already on the phone with your bank about something else.
What to do if you can't remember your login credentials
If you've forgotten your online banking password, use the "Forgot Password" link on your bank's website. You'll usually be asked to verify your identity using your email address, phone number, or Social Security number. The bank will send you a link to reset your password, which typically expires within a few hours.
If you've forgotten your username as well, call your bank's customer service line. They can confirm your username and help you reset your password over the phone, or they can simply read your account number to you without requiring you to log in at all.
Some banks also offer a text or email option to retrieve your account number if you're locked out of your account. Ask the customer service representative what options are available for your specific bank.
Account numbers for joint accounts and multiple accounts
If you have a joint account, both account holders can access the account number the same way — through checks, online banking, or by calling the bank. The account number belongs to the account itself, not to an individual person, so it's the same regardless of who requests it.
If you have multiple accounts at the same bank (a checking account and a savings account, for example), each one has its own account number. When you need to set up direct deposit or authorize a payment, make sure you're using the number for the correct account. Your online banking portal will list all your accounts separately, each with its own number.
Keeping your account number safe
Your account number is not secret in the same way your password is — it's printed on every check you write and visible to anyone who receives a payment from you. However, you should still treat it as sensitive information and avoid sharing it with people or websites you don't trust.
Never give your account number to someone who calls you claiming to be from your bank, even if they know other details about your account. Real banks will never ask for your account number over an unsolicited phone call. If someone calls claiming to be from your bank, hang up and call the number on your debit card or statement to verify.
When you provide your account number to set up direct deposit for a tax refund or other government payment, you're usually entering it into a secure government website or form. These systems are encrypted and safe to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank (nine digits), and your account number identifies your specific account at that bank (usually 10 to 12 digits). You need both together to set up direct deposit or receive wire transfers. On a check, the routing number comes first, then the account number.
Can I use my account number without my routing number?
Not for direct deposit or wire transfers. You need both numbers together. However, if you're setting up a payment within your own bank's system (like paying a bill through your bank's website), you may only need your account number. When in doubt, have both numbers ready.
What if I don't have checks and can't log into my account online?
Call your bank's customer service line using the number on your debit card or a recent statement. A representative can verify your identity and provide your account number over the phone. This usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.
Do I need to memorize my account number?
No. Write it down, take a photo of a check, or save it in a secure location on your phone or computer. You'll need to reference it when setting up direct deposit or authorizing payments, so having it written down is more practical than trying to memorize it.
Will my account number change if I close and reopen an account?
Yes. If you close your account and open a new one at the same bank, you'll receive a new account number. If you've set up direct deposit with the old number, you'll need to update it with the new number to avoid missed payments or refunds.