Where to find your account number, routing number, and other details
Your bank account details are printed on your checks, visible in your online banking portal, and available by phone or in person at your branch. The fastest route is usually your debit card or a check — both show your account number. Your routing number (the nine-digit code that identifies your specific bank branch) appears on the bottom left of any check you have, or you can find it on your bank's website under "routing numbers" or "bank information."
If you do not have checks or online access yet, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or visit a branch with your ID. A teller can write down your account number, routing number, and the bank's name and address in under five minutes. Some banks also text or email this information to you if you ask.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on your checks, debit card statements, and in your online banking portal under account settings or account overview.
- Your routing number is a nine-digit code on the bottom left of any check, or searchable on your bank's website by branch location.
- If you have no checks or online access, call the number on your debit card or visit a branch with your ID to get both numbers in writing.
- You will need both your account number and routing number to set up direct deposit, receive wire transfers, or pay bills by bank transfer.
Finding your account number on checks or statements
If you ordered checks when you opened your account, look at the bottom of any check. Three sets of numbers appear in order: the routing number (nine digits), your account number (usually ten to twelve digits), and the check number. Write down the account number — this is the unique identifier for your specific account at that bank.
You can also find your account number on paper statements mailed to you, usually printed near the top or in a summary box. Online statements show it the same way. If you have not received a statement yet, log into your online banking portal — most banks display your account number prominently on the dashboard or under "Account Information" or "Account Details."
Locating your routing number
The routing number identifies which branch or processing center handles your account. It is always nine digits and appears on the bottom left of your checks, before your account number. If you do not have checks, go to your bank's website and search for "routing number" — most banks have a page listing routing numbers by state and branch location. You may need to know your branch location to find the exact number, though many banks use the same routing number for all branches in a state.
Some banks also print the routing number on statements or in your online banking portal. If you cannot find it online, call the customer service number on your debit card and ask for your routing number — they will give it to you immediately.
Accessing your details through online banking
Log into your bank's website or mobile app using your username and password. Most banks display your account number on the main dashboard or home screen. If not, look for a tab or menu labeled "Accounts," "Account Information," "Account Details," or "My Accounts." Click on the account you want to view, and your full account number will appear.
Some banks also show your routing number in the same section. If you do not see it, look for a link that says "Bank Information," "Wire Instructions," or "Transfer Details" — these pages often list both numbers. You can usually copy the numbers directly from the screen or print the page for your records.
Getting your details by phone or in person
Call the customer service number on the back of your debit card and tell the representative you need your account number and routing number. They will verify your identity by asking for your Social Security number, date of birth, or answers to security questions you set up when you opened the account. Once verified, they will read both numbers to you — write them down or ask them to email or text the information.
You can also visit any branch of your bank in person with a photo ID. A teller will look up your account and write down your account number, routing number, and the bank's name and address. This takes about five minutes and requires no appointment. Some banks also provide a printed card with this information if you ask.
What you need these numbers for
Your account number and routing number are required to set up direct deposit from an employer or government benefit, receive wire transfers from other people or institutions, and pay bills through your bank's bill pay system. You will also need them if you want to transfer money between banks, set up automatic payments, or provide banking information to a creditor or lender.
Keep these numbers in a safe place — you will use them repeatedly. Do not share them with anyone you do not trust, though they are generally safe to give to your employer, your bank, or a business you are paying. If you lose a check or statement with these numbers on it, do not worry — you can always retrieve them through your online portal or by calling your bank.
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 the card and is different from your account number. Your account number appears on checks and in online banking. Never use your debit card number when someone asks for your account number for direct deposit or bank transfers.
Can I find my routing number without a check?
Yes. Go to your bank's website and search for "routing number" — most banks list them by state and branch. You can also call the number on your debit card and ask. If you know your branch location, the bank's website usually has a branch locator tool that shows the routing number for that location.
What if I have multiple accounts at the same bank?
Each account has its own account number, but they share the same routing number. When you log into online banking, you will see all your accounts listed separately, each with its own account number. Make sure you are looking at the correct account before you write down the number.
Do I need both numbers to receive a wire transfer?
Yes. The person or institution sending you money will need your account number to identify which account receives the funds, and your routing number to identify which bank processes it. Provide both numbers clearly and double-check them before giving them out.
What should I do if I think someone has my account number?
Contact your bank immediately by calling the number on your debit card or visiting a branch. Your bank can monitor your account for unauthorized activity and issue you a new account number if needed. Most banks also offer fraud protection that covers unauthorized transfers, so report any suspicious activity right away.