Your account number is on your checks, your bank statement, and in your online banking portal
Your bank account number is a unique identifier assigned to your specific account at your bank. It is different from your routing number, which identifies the bank itself. You need both pieces of information to receive direct deposits, wire transfers, and refunds—including tax refunds, stimulus payments, and insurance payouts.
The fastest way to find it depends on what you have access to right now. If you have a checkbook, look at the bottom left of any check. If you have online banking set up, log in and look for account details. If you have a recent bank statement, the account number appears near the top or bottom of the page.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, after the routing number and before the check number.
- You can find your account number by logging into your bank's website or mobile app under account details or account information.
- Bank statements show your account number near the top or bottom, usually labeled as "Account Number" or "Acct #".
- You can call your bank's customer service line and provide your name and identifying information to have them read your account number to you.
- Never share your account number with anyone who contacts you unsolicited, even if they claim to be from your bank or the government.
Reading your check
The bottom of a check contains three numbers in order from left to right: the routing number, your account number, and the check number. The account number is typically 10 to 12 digits long, though this varies by bank.
The routing number comes first and is 9 digits. Your account number follows immediately after. If you are unsure which is which, count the digits. The routing number is always 9 digits; anything longer is your account number. You do not need the check number for refunds or direct deposits.
If your checks are old or the numbers are faded, you can order new checks from your bank or use one of the other methods below instead.
Logging into your bank's website or app
Most banks display your account number prominently once you log in. Look for a section labeled "Account Details," "Account Information," "My Accounts," or "Account Summary." The account number is usually shown in full, though some banks mask it with asterisks for security when you are on a shared device.
If you cannot find it on the main dashboard, check the account settings or profile section. Some banks require you to click on a specific account to see its full details. Mobile apps often show the account number if you tap on the account name or an information icon.
If you have multiple accounts at the same bank—checking, savings, money market—each one has its own account number. Make sure you are looking at the correct account before you provide the number to anyone.
Checking your bank statement
Paper or digital bank statements show your account number near the top of the page, often in the upper right corner or just below your name and address. It may be labeled "Account Number," "Acct #," or "Account #." Digital statements you download from your bank's website have the same information as paper statements.
If you do not have a recent statement, you can request one from your bank by phone or through your online portal. Many banks allow you to download statements going back several years. Look for a link like "Statements," "Documents," or "Download Statements" in your online banking menu.
Calling your bank directly
If you cannot access your checks, statement, or online banking, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card or the number listed on your bank's website. Have your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number ready. The bank will verify your identity before reading your account number to you.
Customer service lines are typically available during business hours, though many banks offer 24/7 support. If you call during off-hours, you may reach an automated system that can direct you to account information or schedule a callback with a representative.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
If you have lost access to your checks and cannot log into online banking, visiting a branch in person is the most direct option. Bring a photo ID and ask a teller for your account number. They can print it for you or write it down on the spot.
If you are waiting for a refund and do not have your account number yet, contact the organization sending the refund—the IRS, your state tax agency, your insurance company, or whoever is processing the payment. Many will hold the refund in a queue until you provide the correct account information. It is better to delay submission than to provide an incorrect number and have the money sent to the wrong account.
Protecting your account number
Your account number is sensitive information. Do not share it with anyone who contacts you by phone, email, or text unless you initiated the contact and you are certain of who you are talking to. Scammers sometimes pose as bank employees or government agencies to collect account numbers.
If you are submitting your account number to receive a refund, use the official website or phone number of the organization sending the money. For tax refunds, use IRS.gov or your state tax agency's official website. For insurance refunds, contact your insurance company directly using the number on your policy or their official website, not a number from an email or text message.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your routing number identifies your bank and is always 9 digits. Your account number identifies your specific account at that bank and is typically 10 to 12 digits. You need both to set up direct deposit or receive a wire transfer.
Can someone take money from my account if they know my account number?
Not without your routing number as well, and even then they cannot withdraw money without authorization. However, do not share your account number with strangers. If someone has both your account and routing number, they could attempt to set up unauthorized transfers or payments.
What if I provide the wrong account number when requesting a refund?
The refund will be sent to the wrong account. Contact the organization that sent the refund as soon as you realize the error. They may be able to recall the payment or issue a new one to the correct account. The sooner you report it, the better your chances of recovery.
Do I need my account number to check my bank balance?
No. You can log into your bank's website or app with your username and password, or call customer service with your name and Social Security number. Your account number is needed when you are sending money to someone else or receiving a payment from an outside source.
Where do I put my account number when filing taxes online?
If you are requesting a direct deposit of your tax refund, you will enter your account number in the direct deposit section of your tax return. You will also need your routing number. The IRS website has a tool to help you find your routing number if you do not have it.