Your checking account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your bank's online portal, on your debit card statement, or by calling your bank's customer service line.
The easiest place to look is the bottom of a check you have on hand. The account number appears after the routing number and before the check number. If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app — your account number is usually visible on the account overview page or in account settings. You can also call the phone number on the back of your debit card and ask a representative to read it to you.
Your account number is a unique identifier for your specific checking account at your bank. It is different from your routing number, which identifies the bank itself. You need the account number to set up direct deposit, receive wire transfers, pay bills by bank transfer, or give payment instructions to employers and creditors.
Key Takeaways
- Your checking account number appears on the bottom left of any check you have, after the routing number and before the check number.
- You can find your account number by logging into your bank's website or app and looking at your account overview or settings page.
- Calling your bank's customer service line using the number on your debit card will connect you to a representative who can read your account number aloud.
- Your account number is different from your routing number — the account number identifies your specific account, while the routing number identifies your bank.
Finding your account number on a check
If you have a checkbook, the fastest way to find your account number is to look at any check. At the bottom of the check, you will see a series of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink font. These numbers read from left to right as: routing number, account number, check number.
The routing number is typically nine digits. Your account number follows immediately after and is usually 10 to 12 digits long, though this varies by bank. The check number appears last on the right side. Write down only the account number — the middle set of digits — if you need to provide it to an employer, creditor, or service provider.
If your checks are old or the numbers are faded or smudged, the printed digits may be hard to read. In that case, move to one of the other methods below.
Checking your bank's website or mobile app
Log into your bank's online banking portal using your username and password. Once you are logged in, look for a page labeled "Account Overview," "Account Summary," or "My Accounts." Your checking account number should be displayed prominently on this page, often near your account balance.
If you do not see it on the main overview, look for a link or tab that says "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Settings." Some banks hide the full account number behind a security feature — you may need to click a button that says "Show Account Number" or "Reveal Number" to see all the digits.
The mobile app version of your bank's website usually shows the same information. Open the app, navigate to your checking account, and look for the account number in the same places you would find it on the website. If you cannot locate it in the app, the website version often displays it more clearly.
Calling your bank directly
Find the customer service phone number on the back of your debit card or on your most recent bank statement. Call that number and follow the prompts to speak with a representative. You may be asked to verify your identity by providing your name, date of birth, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Once you are connected to a representative, simply ask them to read your checking account number to you. They will provide the full number over the phone. Write it down carefully, or ask them to repeat it so you can confirm you have it correct. This method works even if you do not have access to your checks or online account at that moment.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
If none of the above methods work, contact your bank in person at a branch location. Bring a photo ID and your debit card. A teller can look up your account number in the bank's system and provide it to you immediately. This is the most reliable method if you are having trouble with online access or do not have checks available.
If you have recently opened your account and have not yet received checks or set up online banking, the bank may have sent your account number in a welcome letter or email. Check your email inbox and spam folder for messages from your bank. The account number is often included in these welcome materials.
Keeping your account number safe
Your account number is sensitive information. Do not share it with anyone unless you have initiated the contact and you know who you are talking to. Legitimate businesses — your employer, your utility company, your mortgage lender — will ask for your account number to set up direct deposit or automatic payments. Scammers may also ask for it, so always verify you are dealing with a real company before providing it.
If you believe your account number has been compromised or used without your permission, contact your bank immediately. They can monitor your account for unauthorized activity and issue you a new account number if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank and is the same for all customers at that bank. Your account number identifies your specific checking account and is unique to you. Both numbers appear on the bottom of your checks, with the routing number first and the account number second.
Can I use my account number to transfer money between my own accounts?
Yes. If you have multiple accounts at the same bank, you can transfer money between them using your account numbers. If you are transferring to an account at a different bank, you will need both the routing number and account number of the receiving bank.
What if my bank statement does not show my account number?
Most bank statements do show the account number, but some banks print only the last four digits for security reasons. If your statement does not display the full number, log into your online account or call customer service to retrieve it.
Do I need my account number to use my debit card?
No. Your debit card has its own card number printed on the front, which is different from your account number. You use the card number for purchases and online transactions. You only need your account number for bank transfers, direct deposit, and bill payments by bank transfer.
Can someone access my account with just my account number?
Your account number alone is not enough to access your account or move money. Banks require additional verification, such as your password, PIN, or answers to security questions. However, do not share your account number with people you do not trust, as it is one piece of information a scammer could use in combination with other details.