Your account number is printed on the bottom left of your checks, in your bank's mobile app, and on statements your bank mails or emails you
The easiest place to look is the bottom of a check from your checking account. The account number appears after the routing number and before the check number. If you do not have checks, open your bank's mobile app or log into your online banking portal — your account number will be listed under account details or account information. You can also call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person and ask them to read it to you.
Your bank statement — whether you receive it by mail or email — also displays your full account number near the top. If you have not received a recent statement, you can request one from your bank at no cost. Some banks print the account number on debit cards, though not all do, so do not rely on that as your only source.
Key Takeaways
- The account number on a check appears between the routing number and the check number at the bottom of the page.
- Your bank's website or mobile app shows your account number under account details or account information.
- Bank statements — mailed or emailed — display your full account number and are available on request.
- Calling your bank's customer service line or visiting a branch will get you the number immediately if you cannot locate it elsewhere.
- Do not share your account number with anyone unless you initiated the request and you trust the recipient.
How to find it in your bank's app or online portal
Log into your bank's website or open the mobile app on your phone. Look for a section labeled "Accounts," "Account Details," "Account Information," or "My Accounts." Tap or click on the checking or savings account you need the number for. Your full account number will appear on that page, usually near the top or in a summary section.
If you cannot find it, look for a link that says "View Account Details" or "Account Summary." Some banks hide the full number behind a "Show" button for security — you may need to click that button to see all the digits. If you are still stuck, the bank's app usually has a "Help" or "Contact Us" section where you can message customer service or find the phone number to call.
Reading the account number from a check
Hold a check from your account and look at the bottom. You will see a series of numbers printed in a special magnetic ink. Reading left to right, the first set of numbers is your routing number (usually nine digits). The second set is your account number (typically ten to twelve digits). The third set is the check number.
The account number is the middle group. Write it down carefully — one wrong digit will cause a payment or transfer to fail or go to the wrong account. If you are unsure which group is which, your bank's website or a customer service representative can walk you through it.
Getting your account number by phone or in person
Call your bank's customer service number, which is usually on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website. Tell the representative you need your account number. They will ask you to verify your identity — typically by providing your name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number or a PIN you set up. Once verified, they will read your account number to you.
You can also walk into any branch of your bank during business hours and ask a teller for your account number. Bring a photo ID. The teller will look it up in seconds and either write it down for you or read it aloud. This method is fastest if you need the number right away.
What to do if you cannot locate your account number
If you have lost access to your checks, cannot log into your online banking, and do not have a recent statement, contact your bank directly. Call the number on your debit card or search online for your bank's customer service line. You will need to verify your identity before they give you the number, so have your ID ready.
If you have forgotten your online banking password, use the "Forgot Password" link on your bank's website to reset it. Once you regain access, your account number will be visible in your account details. This usually takes a few minutes and does not require calling anyone.
Why you need your account number and how to keep it safe
Your account number is necessary for direct deposits (like paychecks or tax refunds), wire transfers, setting up automatic bill payments, and receiving payments from other people or organizations. Anyone who needs to send money to your account will ask for your account number and routing number together.
Your account number alone — without your routing number — is less useful to a criminal, but you should still treat it as sensitive information. Do not share it with anyone unless you started the conversation and you trust the recipient. If someone calls you claiming to be from your bank and asks for your account number, hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your debit card or statement. Real banks do not ask for account numbers over the phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my debit card number?
No. Your debit card number is the sixteen-digit number printed on the front of your card. Your account number is different and is usually ten to twelve digits. You can find your account number on a check, in your online banking, or by calling your bank.
Can someone access my account with just the account number?
Not easily. A criminal would need both your account number and routing number to send money out, and even then, many banks require additional verification. However, do not share your account number with strangers. Only give it to people or organizations you trust and who have a legitimate reason to receive it.
What if my bank statement shows a different account number than my check?
That should not happen. If the numbers do not match, contact your bank immediately. It may indicate fraud, a data entry error, or that you are looking at the wrong account. Your bank can clarify which number is correct.
Do I need my account number to set up direct deposit for a tax refund?
Yes. When you file your tax return and request a direct deposit refund, you will need to provide your routing number and account number. Double-check both numbers before submitting — one error will delay your refund or send it to the wrong account.