Your account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your bank's mobile app, and on your monthly statement
The fastest place to look is a check from your account. Open your checkbook and look at the bottom of any check. You will see three sets of numbers separated by colons or vertical lines. The middle set is your account number. It is usually 10 to 12 digits long, though the length varies by bank.
If you do not have checks or cannot find them, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Your account number appears on the account overview page, usually near the top where your account name and balance are shown. Some banks label it "Account Number" or "Checking Account Number" — others call it "Account ID".
Your monthly bank statement also lists your account number at the top. If you receive paper statements, check the first page. If you get statements by email, open the PDF and look near your name and address.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the middle set of digits on the bottom of any check you have written.
- You can find it instantly by logging into your bank's app or website under your account details.
- Your monthly statement, whether paper or email, displays your account number on the first page.
- Account numbers are typically 10 to 12 digits, but length varies by bank and account type.
- Never share your full account number with anyone who calls or emails you claiming to be from your bank.
Finding your account number in online banking
Log into your bank's website using your username and password. Once you are signed in, look for a section called "Accounts," "Account Summary," or "Dashboard." Your account number will be displayed next to your account name — usually something like "Checking" or "Savings."
On mobile apps, the account number often appears on the home screen or in a tab labeled "Accounts." Tap or swipe to see the full number if it is partially hidden. Some banks show only the last four digits by default for security; tap the account to reveal the full number.
Reading the numbers on your check
At the bottom of every check, you will see a series of numbers in a special magnetic ink format. These numbers appear in this order: routing number, account number, check number. The account number is always in the middle.
For example, if you see 121000248:9876543210:1001, your account number is 9876543210. The first number (121000248) is your bank's routing number. The last number (1001) is the check number printed in the upper right corner of the check as well.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
Call your bank's customer service line. The number is on the back of your debit card, on your bank statements, or on your bank's website. Have your ID ready — the bank will ask you to verify your identity before giving you account information over the phone.
You can also visit a branch in person with a photo ID and ask a teller to provide your account number. This is the most secure method if you are concerned about phone security.
Why you need your account number
Your account number is required for direct deposit, wire transfers, setting up automatic bill payments, and receiving payments from employers or government agencies. It is also needed when you open a new account at a different bank and want to transfer money from your old account.
Your account number alone cannot be used to withdraw money from your account — a thief would also need your routing number, PIN, or online banking password. However, treat it as sensitive information and do not share it with people who contact you unexpectedly.
Account numbers for different account types
Most people have one account number per account. If you have both a checking and savings account at the same bank, each one has its own separate account number. If you have a joint account, the account number belongs to that account only, not to either person individually.
Some banks assign a different account number if you convert an account from one type to another — for example, changing a checking account to a money market account. If you are unsure whether your account number has changed, check your most recent statement or log into your account online.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 found on checks and in online banking. You need your account number for transfers and direct deposit, not your debit card number.
Can someone steal money using just my account number?
Not without additional information. A thief would need your routing number, PIN, online password, or other verification to access your account. However, do not share your account number with people who contact you unexpectedly by phone or email.
What if my account number has changed?
Account numbers rarely change unless you close an account and open a new one, or your bank merges with another bank. If you think your number has changed, check your most recent statement or log into your account online to confirm your current number.
Do I need both my routing number and account number?
Yes, for most transfers and direct deposits. Your routing number identifies your bank; your account number identifies your specific account at that bank. Both are printed on the bottom of your checks in order: routing number, then account number.