Your account number is printed on the bottom left of every check you have, and in your online banking portal under account details or settings
The fastest place to look is a check from your checkbook. Open the check and look at the bottom left corner. You will see a series of numbers separated by colons or dashes. The middle set of numbers — usually 10 to 12 digits — is your account number. The first set is your routing number. Write down only the middle set.
If you do not have checks handy, log into your bank's website or mobile app. Go to the account details, account information, or settings section — the exact name varies by bank. Your account number will be listed there alongside your account type (checking, savings, money market) and current balance. Some banks also print it on your debit card statement or in your monthly paper statement.
If you bank at a credit union instead of a bank, the same places apply: checks, online portal, or your monthly statement. Credit unions use the same account number format as banks.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number appears on the bottom left of any check you own, in the middle set of numbers between the routing number and the check number.
- Log into your bank's website or app and navigate to account details or account information to see your account number without a check.
- Your monthly bank statement — whether paper or digital — lists your account number near the top or in the account summary section.
- Your account number is specific to one account at one bank; if you have multiple accounts, each one has its own number.
- Never share your account number with anyone who calls or emails you unsolicited, even if they claim to be from your bank.
Finding your account number on your monthly statement
Open your most recent bank statement, whether you receive it by mail or download it from your online portal. Look near the top of the first page, usually in a box labeled "Account Information" or "Your Account Details." Your account number will be printed there in full, often with the last four digits highlighted or the middle digits masked with asterisks for security.
If you receive a paper statement, the account number typically appears in the upper right or upper left corner. Digital statements follow the same layout. Some banks print it multiple times on the statement — once at the top and again on each page for reference.
If you have lost or thrown away your statement, you can request a copy from your bank by phone or through your online portal. Most banks keep statements available for download for at least seven years.
Locating it in your online banking account
Sign into your bank's website or app using your username and password. Look for a tab or menu item labeled "Accounts," "Account Details," "Account Information," or "Settings." Click on the account you need the number for — if you have multiple accounts, each one will be listed separately.
Your account number will appear on this page alongside other details like your account type, current balance, and available funds. Some banks display it prominently at the top; others require you to click a "View Details" or "Account Number" link to see the full number. If you see only the last four digits, look for an option to "Show Full Number" or "Reveal Account Number."
Mobile apps usually have the same information in a similar location. Tap the account you want, then look for an information icon (usually a lowercase "i" in a circle) or a "Details" button.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
Call your bank's customer service number, which is on the back of your debit card, on your statement, or on your bank's website. Tell the representative you need your account 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 give you the number over the phone.
You can also visit a branch in person with a photo ID. A teller can print your account number for you in seconds. This is useful if you are uncomfortable giving information over the phone.
Some banks allow you to request account information through their secure messaging system within the online portal. Log in, find the "Messages" or "Contact Us" section, and send a secure message asking for your account number. A representative will respond within one to two business days.
Understanding the difference between account number and routing number
Your routing number identifies which bank you use — it is the same for all customers at that bank. Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. You need both when setting up direct deposit, wire transfers, or automatic bill payments. The routing number goes first, then the account number.
On a check, the routing number is the first set of numbers on the bottom left (usually nine digits). The account number is the middle set (usually 10 to 12 digits). The third set is your check number, which is different for each check you write.
If you give someone only your account number without the routing number, they will not be able to send you money or set up a transfer. If you give only the routing number, they cannot identify which of your accounts the money should go to. Both are necessary.
Keeping your account number secure
Your account number is semi-public information — you give it to employers for direct deposit, to creditors for bill payments, and to anyone who needs to send you money. However, do not share it with anyone who contacts you first by phone, email, or text claiming to be from your bank. Legitimate banks never ask for your full account number this way.
If someone calls saying they are from your bank and asking for your account number, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your card or statement. Scammers often spoof bank phone numbers to make their calls look legitimate.
When you write down your account number, store it in a secure place — not on a sticky note on your monitor or in an unsecured email. If you need to share it with someone, use a secure method like a phone call or an encrypted message.
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 direct deposits and wire transfers. Your card number is what you use to make purchases. You can have the same account number for years, but your debit card number changes each time you get a new card.
Can I find my account number on my debit card?
Not usually. Your debit card shows your card number (the 16 digits on the front), but not your account number. You need to check a check, your statement, or your online banking portal to find your account number. Some banks print the account number on the back of the card, but this is rare.
What if I have a joint account — do both people have the same account number?
Yes. A joint account has one account number shared by all account holders. When you set up direct deposit or a wire transfer to a joint account, you use that single account number. Both people can see and use the same account number.
Do I need my account number to check my balance?
No. You can check your balance by logging into your online banking portal or app with just your username and password, or by calling your bank's automated phone line. You do not need your account number to view your own balance.
What should I do if I think someone has my account number?
Contact your bank immediately by phone using the number on your card or statement. Tell them you are concerned about unauthorized access. They can monitor your account for suspicious activity and, if needed, close the account and open a new one with a different account number. Act quickly — the sooner you report it, the better protected you are.