Your checking account number is printed on the bottom left of every check you write, and it's also available through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service.
The easiest place to look is the front of a check from your account. At the bottom of the check, you'll see three sets of numbers separated by colons or vertical lines. The first set is your bank's routing number. The second set, usually 10 to 12 digits long, is your account number. The third set is the check number itself.
If you don't have checks handy or prefer not to write them, your bank can show you the account number in seconds through their website login, their mobile app, or a phone call to their customer service line. The number appears on account statements too, whether you get them by mail or download them online.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of any check from your account, between the routing number and the check number.
- You can find your account number by logging into your bank's website or mobile app and viewing your account details.
- Calling your bank's customer service line will get you your account number in under a minute without requiring a login.
- Account statements—whether mailed or downloaded—display your account number at the top or in the account summary section.
Finding it on a physical check
Open your checkbook and pull out any check. Look at the bottom of the check. You'll see a series of numbers printed in magnetic ink, which is why banks can read them automatically.
Reading left to right, the first group of numbers is your routing number (usually nine digits). Skip the colon or line. The next group is your account number. After that comes the check number. Some banks print the account number in a different location on the check—occasionally it appears twice, once at the bottom and once in the top right corner—but the bottom-left position is standard.
If your checks are old or the ink has faded, the numbers may be hard to read. In that case, move to one of the other methods below.
Checking your bank's website or app
Log into your bank's website using your username and password. Look for a section labeled "Account Details," "Account Information," or "My Accounts." Your account number will be displayed there, usually near the top of the page or in a summary box.
Most banks also show your account number in their mobile app. Open the app, tap on your checking account, and look for an "Account Details" or "Account Info" button. The account number is typically visible without requiring any additional steps.
This method is faster than finding a check and works even if you're away from home. You can also screenshot or write down the number for future reference.
Calling your bank directly
Pick up the phone and call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Tell the representative you need your checking account number. They will ask you to verify your identity—usually by providing your Social Security number, date of birth, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Once verified, they'll read your account number to you over the phone. This takes about one to two minutes and requires no login or account access on your end. It's a good option if you're having trouble accessing your online account or if you don't have a check available.
Looking at your account statement
If you receive paper statements by mail, your account number appears on every statement, usually at the top of the page or in a box labeled "Account Information." It's printed in regular type, not magnetic ink.
If you receive electronic statements, log into your bank's website and download or view your most recent statement. The account number will be in the same location. You can also request a paper statement by mail if you prefer, though most banks charge a small fee for this service.
Statements are useful if you need to confirm your account number for a specific transaction or if you want a record showing both your routing number and account number together.
What to do if you can't find it
If none of the above methods work—for example, if you've lost your checks, can't access your online account, and don't have a statement—contact your bank's customer service line. This is the most reliable fallback. You don't need to know your account number to call; you just need to verify your identity.
Some banks also allow you to visit a branch in person with a photo ID and ask a teller for your account number. This is slower than calling or using the app, but it's an option if you prefer face-to-face help.
Why you need your account number
Your account number is required for direct deposits, wire transfers, automatic bill payments, and setting up transfers between accounts at different banks. It's also needed when you contact your bank about a specific transaction or when you're setting up payroll with an employer.
Your account number is not the same as your routing number. Both are needed together for most banking transactions, but they serve different purposes. Your routing number identifies your bank; your account number identifies you within that 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 your card and is different from your account number. Your account number is what you use for bank transfers and direct deposits. Your debit card number is what you use for purchases and ATM withdrawals.
Can I use my account number to make purchases online?
No. Online purchases require your debit card number, expiration date, and CVV code. Your account number is for banking transactions only, not for shopping. Never share your account number with a merchant.
What if I have multiple checking accounts at the same bank?
Each account has its own account number. If you have two checking accounts, they will have two different account numbers but the same routing number. Make sure you're using the correct account number for the transaction you're making.
Is it safe to share my account number?
Your account number is safe to share with your employer for direct deposit, with your bank for transfers, or with trusted organizations for bill payments. Do not share it with unknown callers or in unsecured emails. Scammers can use your account number to attempt unauthorized transfers.