Your bank account number is printed on your checks, listed on your statements, and available inside your bank’s website or mobile app. If you don’t have any of those handy, you can also call your bank or visit a branch. Here’s how to find it using each method.
Check the Bottom of a Paper Check
The fastest way to find your checking account number is to grab a check from your checkbook. Along the bottom edge, you’ll see a string of numbers printed in a special font designed for machine reading. Three numbers appear in sequence from left to right: your bank’s routing number (always 9 digits), your account number (typically 8 to 12 digits), and a shorter check number that matches the one printed in the upper corner.
The routing number identifies your bank. The account number in the middle is the one that’s uniquely yours. If you’re setting up direct deposit or linking an external account, you’ll usually need both.
Find It on a Bank Statement
Paper and electronic bank statements both display your account number near the top of the page. Look for an 8- to 12-digit number labeled “Account” or “Account number.” It typically appears alongside your name, address, and the statement period. If you’ve gone paperless, you can usually download a PDF statement from your bank’s website, and the number will be in the same spot.
Look It Up in Online or Mobile Banking
Most banks let you view your full account number after logging in. The exact steps vary by bank, but the process is similar everywhere. Sign in to your bank’s website or app, select the account you need, and look for a link labeled something like “Show details,” “Account details,” or “Account information.” Your account and routing numbers will appear in the dropdown or on the detail page.
On Chase’s mobile app, for example, you tap the tile for the account you want, then tap “Show details,” and both numbers appear. Other banks use similar navigation, though the label might say “View account number” or sit behind a small eye icon for security. You may need to complete a verification step, like entering a one-time code sent to your phone, before the full number is revealed.
Call Your Bank or Visit a Branch
If you can’t log in and don’t have checks or statements nearby, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card. After verifying your identity with security questions or personal details, a representative can read your account number to you over the phone. You can also walk into any branch with a government-issued photo ID and ask a teller to look it up.
Routing Number vs. Account Number
These two numbers travel together on checks and direct deposit forms, and mixing them up is easy. Your routing number is always exactly 9 digits and identifies the bank itself. Every customer at the same bank in the same region shares the same routing number. Your account number is typically 8 to 12 digits and identifies your specific account. When filling out a form for direct deposit, wire transfers, or automatic payments, you’ll need both, and putting the wrong number in the wrong field can delay or misdirect your money.
Finding Non-Bank Account Numbers
If you’re looking for an account number that isn’t tied to a bank, the location depends on the type of account.
- Credit cards: Your account number is the long number embossed or printed across the front (or back) of the card, typically 15 or 16 digits. You can also find it in your card issuer’s app or on your monthly statement.
- Utility bills: Your account number appears near the top of your paper or electronic bill, usually labeled clearly. You’ll need it when setting up autopay through your bank or when contacting the utility company about your service.
- Investment and retirement accounts: Log in to your brokerage or retirement plan’s website. The account number is usually visible on the main dashboard or under account settings, and it also appears on quarterly statements.
Keeping Your Account Number Safe
Your bank account number alone isn’t enough for someone to drain your account, but paired with your routing number, it can be used to set up unauthorized withdrawals. Avoid sharing it over email or text. When you need to provide it digitally, use your bank’s secure messaging system or encrypted portals. Shred old checks and paper statements rather than tossing them in the trash. If you suspect your account number has been compromised, contact your bank immediately to discuss getting a new account number issued.