Your account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal, or by calling your bank's customer service line.
The fastest way is to look at a check from your account. The account number appears after the routing number on the bottom of the check, separated by a colon or space. If you do not have checks, log into your bank's website or mobile app—your account number is usually displayed on the dashboard or in an account details section. If neither option works, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website and ask for your account number. A representative can read it to you in seconds.
The account number itself is typically 8 to 12 digits, though length varies by bank. It identifies your specific account within the bank's system and is different from your routing number, which identifies the bank itself. You will need both numbers together for wire transfers, direct deposit setup, and other transactions that move money between accounts.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of any check you have, right after the routing number.
- If you do not have checks, log into your online banking account or mobile app to find it in your account details or dashboard.
- Calling your bank's customer service line will get you your account number in under a minute.
- Account numbers are typically 8 to 12 digits long and are unique to your specific account at that bank.
Finding your account number on a check
The bottom of a check contains three numbers in this order: routing number, account number, and check number. The account number is the middle set of digits and is usually 8 to 12 characters long. It appears after a colon or space and before the check number on the far right.
If you have an old check from years ago, the account number will still be the same unless you closed the account and opened a new one. Checks from different accounts at the same bank will have the same routing number but different account numbers. If you are unsure which number is which, the routing number is always first and is always nine digits.
Logging into online banking to see your account number
Most banks display your account number on the main dashboard or home page when you log in. It may be labeled "Account Number," "Account ID," or simply shown next to your account type (like "Checking" or "Savings"). Some banks hide the full number for security and show only the last four digits by default—look for a button or link that says "Show Full Account Number" or "Reveal Account Number."
If you cannot find it on the main page, look in a section called "Account Details," "Account Information," or "My Accounts." Mobile apps usually show the account number in the same place as the website. If your bank's app or website does not display it, call customer service—they can confirm your account number over the phone after verifying your identity.
Calling your bank to get your account number
The phone number for customer service is on the back of your debit card, on your bank statements, or on the bank's official website. When you call, have your Social Security number or the phone number associated with your account ready. The representative will ask you to verify your identity before reading your account number aloud.
This method takes only a few minutes and works even if you have lost your checks or cannot access online banking. Some banks also offer automated phone systems where you can press buttons to hear your account number without speaking to a person, though this varies by institution.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
If you have no checks, cannot log into online banking, and do not have a phone number for your bank, visit a branch in person with a photo ID. A teller can look up your account number in seconds. Bring your debit card or any mail from the bank to speed up the process.
If your account is closed or very old, the bank may not have records readily available. In that case, ask the bank for written confirmation of the account number, which you can use for tax purposes or to dispute old transactions. Some banks charge a small fee for this service, though many do not.
Keeping your account number safe
Your account number is sensitive information. Do not share it with anyone who calls or emails you claiming to be from your bank—legitimate banks never ask for your full account number by phone or email. Only provide it to people or organizations you initiated contact with, like your employer for direct deposit or a business you are paying.
If you suspect someone has your account number, contact your bank immediately. They can monitor the account for fraud and issue you a new account number if needed, though this process can take a few weeks and may require you to update direct deposit and automatic payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your routing number identifies the bank branch, and your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Both appear on the bottom of a check, with the routing number first (always nine digits) and the account number second (usually 8 to 12 digits).
Can I use my account number alone to transfer money?
No. You need both your routing number and account number together to set up a wire transfer or direct deposit. The routing number tells the receiving bank which institution to pull from, and the account number tells it which account within that institution.
What if I have multiple accounts at the same bank?
Each account has its own unique account number, even though they share the same routing number. If you have a checking and savings account at the same bank, they will have different account numbers. Check the bottom of checks from each account to see the different numbers.
Do I need my account number to log into online banking?
No. You typically log in with your username and password or online ID. Once logged in, you can see your account number on the dashboard. If you have forgotten your login information, use the "Forgot Password" link on your bank's website.
Can I change my account number?
You cannot change your account number yourself. If you need a new one for security reasons, contact your bank and ask them to issue a new account. This usually takes one to two weeks and requires you to update any automatic payments or direct deposits tied to the old number.