Your checking account number is printed on the bottom left of every check you write, and also appears on your bank statement and in your online banking portal.
The account number is a string of digits unique to your specific checking account. It sits between your routing number and a check number on the bottom of a check. If you do not have checks handy, you can find it by logging into your bank's website or mobile app, calling your bank's customer service line, or looking at any recent statement your bank mailed to you.
You need this number when you set up direct deposit, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive a wire transfer. It is different from your routing number (which identifies your bank) and different from your debit card number.
Key Takeaways
- Your checking account number appears on the bottom left of every check, between the routing number and the check number.
- You can find your account number in your online banking portal, on paper statements, or by calling your bank.
- The account number is specific to your individual account and is required for direct deposits, bill payments, and wire transfers.
- Your account number is not the same as your routing number, debit card number, or Social Security number.
Reading the numbers on the bottom of a check
The bottom of a check contains three separate pieces of information printed in magnetic ink. From left to right, you see the routing number (nine digits), then your account number (usually eight to twelve digits), then the check number (four to five digits).
The account number is the middle set of digits. It is longer than the check number and shorter than the routing number in most cases, though lengths vary by bank. If you are unsure which set is which, your bank's website or a customer service representative can confirm which digits make up your account number.
Finding your account number online or by phone
Log into your bank's website or open the mobile app and look for an account summary or account details page. Most banks display your full account number there, though some mask it for security and show only the last four digits. If the app shows only partial digits, you can usually click to reveal the full number, or call your bank's customer service line.
When you call, have your Social Security number and a form of identification ready. The bank will verify your identity before reading your account number to you over the phone. This typically takes a few minutes.
Finding your account number on a bank statement
Paper statements mailed to your home and electronic statements you receive by email both display your account number near the top. Look for a line that says "Account Number" or "Account #" followed by a series of digits. Some banks print the full number; others print only the last four digits for security.
If your statement shows only partial digits, contact your bank to request the full account number. You can also download older statements from your online banking portal if you have access to that.
What to do if you cannot locate your account number
Call your bank's customer service number, which appears on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Have your name, address, and Social Security number ready. Tell the representative you need your checking account number, and they will provide it.
If you are a new customer and have not yet received checks or a statement, this is the fastest way to get your account number. The bank can also confirm your routing number at the same time if you need both.
Keeping your account number secure
Your account number is sensitive information. Do not share it with anyone who contacts you by phone or email claiming to be from your bank. Legitimate banks do not ask for your account number over the phone or email.
When you provide your account number to set up direct deposit or bill payments, do so only through official channels: your employer's payroll system, your bank's website, or a company's official website. If you are unsure whether a request is legitimate, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your debit card or statement.
Account number versus other identifying numbers
Your checking account number is not your routing number. The routing number identifies your bank and is the same for all customers at that bank. Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank and is unique to you.
Your account number is also not your debit card number. The debit card number is printed on the front of your card and is different from your account number, though both are tied to the same account. Your account number is not your Social Security number either, though you may need to provide your Social Security number to verify your identity when you request your account number by phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my debit card number instead of my account number for direct deposit?
No. Direct deposit requires your routing number and account number, not your debit card number. The debit card number is for purchases and ATM withdrawals. If you provide the wrong number, the deposit will fail or go to the wrong account.
Is my account number the same at every bank I use?
No. Each account at each bank has its own unique account number. If you have a checking account and a savings account at the same bank, they have different account numbers. If you have an account at a different bank, that account has a different number as well.
What if I see different account numbers on different statements?
Contact your bank. This usually means you have multiple accounts (checking and savings, for example) or there was an error. Your bank can clarify which number belongs to which account and confirm which one you need for direct deposit or bill payments.
Do I need my account number to use an ATM?
No. You use your debit card and PIN to withdraw money at an ATM. Your account number is not required. You only need your account number when setting up direct deposit, arranging bill payments, or receiving wire transfers.