You will need to provide your bank account number when you make any type of bank transaction.

There are many types bank account numbers. It may take you a few minutes to find them if they are new to you. This is especially true if there aren't any physical checks around the house.
This guide will explain the various numbers that are linked to your bank account. We'll also explain the many ways you can find them when they are needed.

It's important to know that you will need to monitor three numbers in order to complete a bank transaction. These numbers include your routing number, SWIFT codes, and account number. Let's take a closer view of each.

Routing Number

Individual banks are assigned routing numbers. Each bank has its own unique routing number. However, it is not every customer.

A common routing number can be shared by many customers of a financial institution. However, some of the biggest banks may have multiple routing numbers depending on where they are located or what type of account they are. For example, Chase Bank customers in California might have a different routing number than those who live in Florida.

You may also see the routing number referred as the ABA number in some cases. It stands for American Bankers Association. The ABA issues routing numbers for federal and state-chartered financial institutions.

SWIFT Code

If you are dealing with international money transfers, you may be required to provide a SWIFT number. An eleven-digit number used to identify international banks institutions is the SWIFT code.

The 11 digits consist of a four-letter code for a bank, two-letter country code and optionally a three-digit branch number. This code is used to track where money comes from during a transfer.

Account Number

Your bank account number is the unique sequence of numbers that uniquely identifies your account. Account numbers typically range from eight to twelve digits.

Bad actors may authorize funds to be transferred out of your account if your account number is not in good hands. These numbers are particularly important to protect.

Where to find your bank account number

You now know the basics about bank account numbers. It's now time to find out where these numbers can be found. There are many places you can look for this information.

Physical checks

It can be a good place to check for routing numbers and bank account numbers if you have any physical checks. This is where you won’t find SWIFT codes.

Your nine-digit routing code will be located in the bottom left corner of your check. You'll also see your account number after the routing number.

Do not let the last few digits fool you! Your check's final set of numbers is the check number.

Statement of Bank Account

You can find all the account numbers that you require, regardless of whether you get a paper copy or a paperless version of your bank account statement. Banks will have different placements for your account number. This important information is usually located near the top.

Bank Online Portal

Online banking portals make your life so much easier. This includes when you need your bank account numbers. Log in to your bank's online portal. After logging in, you will need to search for your account number.

Different banks may place information at different locations. In some cases, your account number will appear right before your account name. In some cases, you might need to go to the account details section.

Many banks only display the last few digits from your bank account number, prefixed by Xs. You might see this, XXXXX-1234.

Banks do this to protect your privacy. If you log in to your bank's online portal from a public location, your entire account numbers will not be visible. To unmask hidden numbers, you can click on the account number in most cases.

Want more help? Contact or visit your bank for more information

You can also call your bank to get your bank account numbers. Ask the representative or automated service " What is my SWIFT code?"

To receive your account number by phone, you might need additional information (e.g. security pins or passphrases).

If you require further assistance, you can visit your local branch. To get the account numbers that you are looking for, be sure to show your identification.

Bank Account Numbers Protected

All customers have access to the routing number and SWIFT code of any financial institution. These numbers may be found on the homepage of a credit union or bank.

Your bank account number is even more private. Keep your bank account number secret once you have it.

Don't share sensitive financial information with anyone you don’t know. Also, make sure to regularly scan your bank transactions. Contact your bank immediately if you find something you did not authorize.

Last Thoughts

To make banking transactions easy, you can use your bank account number. Once you have the numbers, you can set-up bill pay and direct deposit. This will make it easier for you to automate your financial lives.

Many people used to keep track of bank account numbers by keeping handwritten notes or physical checks. This information is usually just a few clicks away thanks to online banking. Find our top online banks here >>