Your account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it online through your bank's website or app
The easiest place to look is your checkbook. Open any check and look at the bottom left corner. You will see a series of numbers separated by colons or dashes. The middle set of numbers is your account number. It is usually 8 to 12 digits long, though the exact length varies by bank.
If you do not have checks or prefer not to dig through a drawer, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Your account number appears on the account overview page, usually near your account name and balance. Some banks label it "Account Number" or "Checking Account Number." Others put it under "Account Details" or "Account Information."
You can also call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person. Have your ID ready. A teller or phone representative can give you your account number in seconds.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the middle set of digits at the bottom left of any check you write.
- You can find your account number by logging into your bank's website or app under account details or overview.
- Calling your bank's customer service line or visiting a branch will get you the number if you cannot locate it yourself.
- Your account number is not the same as your routing number, which appears to the left of your account number on a check.
- Keep your account number private and share it only with people or organizations you trust to receive payments or deposits.
How to read the numbers at the bottom of a check
A check has three separate numbers printed along the bottom in a special magnetic ink. From left to right, they are: routing number, account number, and check number. The routing number identifies your bank. The account number identifies your specific account at that bank. The check number is just a reference for that particular check.
The account number is always in the middle. It is longer than the routing number and shorter than the check number. If you are unsure which is which, your bank's website or a quick phone call will confirm.
Finding your account number online
Log into your bank's website using your username and password. Look for a tab or link labeled "Accounts," "Account Summary," or "Dashboard." Click it. Your account number should appear on the main page, usually next to your account type (like "Checking" or "Savings") and your current balance.
If you use your bank's mobile app, the process is the same. Open the app, sign in, and look at your account overview. The account number is typically displayed prominently. Some apps let you tap the account number to copy it to your clipboard, which is useful if you need to paste it into a form.
If you cannot find it after looking in these places, use the search function within the app or website and type "account number." Most banks have a help section that will walk you through the exact steps for their platform.
What to do if you cannot locate your account number
Call your bank's customer service number. This number is on the back of your debit card, on your bank statements, or on your bank's website. Have your ID and Social Security number ready. A representative will verify your identity and provide your account number over the phone.
You can also visit a branch in person. Bring a photo ID. A teller can print out your account information or write your account number on a piece of paper for you. This usually takes less than five minutes.
If you have recent bank statements, your account number may be printed at the top or bottom of the page. Check the first statement you received when you opened the account, or any statement from the past few months.
Why you need your account number
Your account number is required for direct deposits (like paychecks or tax refunds), automatic bill payments, and wire transfers. It tells the sending bank exactly which account at your bank should receive the money. Without it, the transaction cannot go through.
You will also need your account number when you set up payment arrangements with creditors, insurance companies, or government agencies. Many of these organizations ask for it during the initial setup so they can deduct payments automatically from your account each month.
Keeping your account number secure
Your account number is sensitive information. Do not share it with people you do not trust or on websites that do not look legitimate. Scammers can use your account number to attempt unauthorized withdrawals or to commit fraud in your name.
It is safe to share your account number with your employer (for direct deposit), your bank, government agencies (for refunds or payments), and established businesses you are paying. It is not safe to share it in response to unsolicited emails, texts, or phone calls, even if the sender claims to be from your bank.
If you think someone has your account number and may misuse it, contact your bank immediately. They can monitor your account for suspicious activity and issue you a new account number if necessary.
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 printed on checks and appears in your online banking portal. You need your account number for direct deposits and wire transfers, not your debit card number.
Can someone withdraw money from my account if they only have my account number?
They cannot withdraw money with only your account number. They would also need your routing number and authorization from you or your bank. However, they could attempt fraudulent transactions, so keep your account number private and monitor your account regularly for suspicious activity.
What if my account number appears on a check I wrote to someone?
Your account number is visible on every check you write, so anyone who receives a check from you will see it. This is normal and expected. The risk is low because they would still need your routing number and authorization to move money. Only be concerned if you suspect the person may misuse the information.
Do I need both my account number and routing number for a direct deposit?
Yes. Your employer or the organization sending the deposit needs both numbers. Your routing number tells the sending bank which bank to send the money to. Your account number tells that bank which account within the bank should receive it. Both are required for the deposit to reach the correct account.
Will my account number change if I close and reopen an account?
Yes. If you close your account and open a new one, you will receive a new account number. Update any automatic payments or direct deposits with your new account number to avoid missed payments or lost deposits.