Your checking account number is the unique identifier your bank assigns to your specific account
Your checking account number is a string of digits—usually between 8 and 12 numbers—that identifies your individual account at your bank. It is not the same as your routing number, which identifies the bank itself. Together, the routing number and account number make up your complete banking address. Your bank uses the account number to know which account to deposit money into or withdraw money from when you receive a refund, make a payment, or set up direct deposit.
The account number appears on every check you write, on your bank statements, and in your online banking portal. It is specific to you and this account only—if you open a savings account at the same bank, that account gets a different number.
Key Takeaways
- Your checking account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, after the routing number.
- You can find your account number on your bank statement, in your online banking login, or by calling your bank's customer service line.
- Tax refunds, stimulus payments, and insurance refunds all need your account number to deposit directly into your checking account.
- Never share your account number with someone you do not know or trust, as it can be used to withdraw money or set up unauthorized payments.
Where to locate your account number on a check
If you have a checkbook, your account number is printed on the bottom of every check. Look at the bottom left corner of the check. You will see three groups of numbers separated by colons or special symbols. The first group is your routing number (9 digits). The second group is your account number. The third group is the check number itself.
The account number is usually 8 to 12 digits long, depending on your bank. Write down the account number carefully—a single digit wrong will send a refund to the wrong account or cause a direct deposit to fail.
Finding your account number online or by phone
If you do not have checks or cannot locate them, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Your account number appears on the main account overview page, usually near the account balance. Some banks label it "Account Number" or "Checking Account Number." If you see multiple accounts listed, make sure you are looking at your checking account, not a savings account or money market account.
You can also call your bank's customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your most recent bank statement. Have your Social Security number and a form of identification ready. A representative will confirm your identity and read your account number to you over the phone.
Why refunds and payments need your account number
When you receive a tax refund by direct deposit, the IRS needs both your routing number and your account number to deposit the money into the correct account. The same applies to stimulus payments, state tax refunds, insurance refunds, and any other payment set up for direct deposit. Without the correct account number, the payment cannot reach your account.
If you provide an incorrect account number, the refund may go to someone else's account, or the bank may reject it and send it back to the issuer. This can delay your refund by weeks or months while the issuer investigates and reissues the payment.
Keeping your account number secure
Your account number is not as sensitive as your Social Security number or PIN, but it should still be treated with care. Never share your account number with someone who calls you unsolicited, texts you, or emails you claiming to be from your bank or a government agency. Legitimate banks and the IRS will not ask for your account number this way.
It is safe to provide your account number and routing number to your employer for direct deposit, to the IRS on a tax return, or to a known insurance company processing a refund. It is not safe to post it on social media, write it in an email to an unknown recipient, or give it to someone who approaches you on the street.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
If you have lost your checks, do not have online banking set up, and cannot reach your bank by phone, you have other options. Visit your bank in person with a photo ID. A teller can print your account number for you on the spot. This usually takes less than five minutes.
You can also request a new checkbook from your bank, which will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days with your account number printed on it. If you need the number urgently for a refund or payment, the in-person visit is faster.
Account number versus routing number
These two numbers work together but do different jobs. Your routing number identifies your bank or credit union—all customers at the same branch usually share the same routing number. Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Think of the routing number as the address of the bank building and the account number as your apartment number inside that building.
When you set up direct deposit or provide banking information for a refund, you must provide both numbers. If you give the correct routing number but the wrong account number, the money will go to the wrong person's account at the right bank. If you give the correct account number but the wrong routing number, the money will go to the wrong bank entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone take money from my account if they know my account number?
Knowing only your account number is not enough to withdraw money. A person would also need your routing number, and even then, most banks require additional verification. However, do not share your account number with strangers. Combine it with other information, it could be used to set up unauthorized payments or transfers.
Is my account number the same as my debit card number?
No. Your debit card number is printed on the front of your card and is different from your account number. Your account number is what your bank uses internally to identify your checking account. Your debit card number is what merchants and payment processors use when you swipe or enter your card.
What if I give the wrong account number for a tax refund?
The IRS will attempt to deposit the refund into the account number you provided. If that account does not exist or belongs to someone else, the bank will reject the deposit and return it to the IRS. The IRS will then mail you a check instead, which can take 4 to 6 weeks longer than direct deposit.
Do I need my account number to check my bank balance?
No. You can check your balance by logging into online banking with your username and password, calling your bank's automated phone line, or visiting an ATM with your debit card. You do not need to know your account number to perform these tasks.
Will my account number change if I close and reopen an account?
Yes. If you close your checking account and open a new one at the same bank, you will receive a new account number. Make sure to update your direct deposit information with your employer or any other source of regular deposits.