Your credit card account number is the 15 or 16-digit number printed on the front of your card, usually below your name
The account number is your card's unique identifier within your bank or credit card company's system. It is not the same as your card number, even though they look similar. When you call customer service, make a payment, or set up automatic billing, you will use this number so the company knows which account to pull up.
The account number stays the same for the life of that card. If your card is lost, stolen, or expires and you get a replacement, you will receive a new account number. This is one reason why you should update automatic payments when a new card arrives — the old account number will no longer work.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is a 15 or 16-digit code printed on the front of your card, separate from the card number itself.
- You need your account number to call customer service, set up automatic payments, and dispute charges.
- The account number changes when you get a replacement card, so you must update any recurring payments with the new number.
- Never share your account number with anyone who calls you unsolicited, even if they claim to be from your bank.
Where the account number appears on your card
Look at the front of your credit card. Below your name and above the expiration date, you will see a long string of numbers. This is your account number. On most cards it is printed in a slightly different font or color than the card number, making it easier to spot.
Some cards print the account number on the back instead, near the signature strip or below the security code. If you cannot find it on the front, flip the card over. Your bank's customer service number is usually printed on the back as well, so you can call and ask them to read it to you if you still cannot locate it.
Why you need your account number for different tasks
For customer service calls: When you call your credit card company, the representative will ask for your account number before pulling up your account. This is faster than reading your full card number and confirms you are calling about the right account if you have multiple cards with the same company.
For automatic payments: When you set up a recurring payment — for a subscription, utility bill, or loan — the merchant needs your account number to charge the correct account each month. If you switch to a new card, you must update this information with the merchant or the payment will fail.
For disputes and fraud claims: If you see a charge you did not make, you will reference your account number when you call to report it. The company uses this to locate the transaction in their system and begin an investigation.
For balance transfers: If you are moving a balance from one card to another, the receiving bank needs the account number of the card you are transferring from.
The difference between account number and card number
These are two separate numbers, and it is important to know which one you are being asked for. Your card number is the 15 or 16 digits printed most prominently on the front of your card — the one you use to make purchases online or over the phone. Your account number is usually printed below it in smaller text.
When you make a purchase, you give the merchant your card number. When you call your bank or set up a recurring payment with your bank directly, you give your account number. Some merchants may ask for your account number instead of your card number, but this is less common.
If your card is compromised and you need a new one, your card number will change, but your account number may stay the same depending on your bank's policy. Always confirm with your bank which number has changed so you know what to update.
How to protect your account number
Treat your account number like you would your card number — do not share it with anyone you did not contact first. If someone calls you claiming to be from your bank and asks for your account number, hang up and call the number on the back of your card instead. Banks never ask for sensitive information through unsolicited calls.
When you receive a new card in the mail, destroy the old one by cutting it up or shredding it. Do not throw it in the trash whole. If you lose your card, call your bank when ready to report it and request a replacement. The old account number will be closed and a new one issued.
If you are setting up automatic payments online, make sure you are on your bank's official website or the merchant's official website before entering your account number. Look for the padlock icon in the address bar and verify the web address is spelled correctly.
What to do if you cannot find your account number
If your card is damaged, lost, or you straightforward cannot read the number clearly, you have several options. Call the customer service number on the back of your card — a representative can read your account number to you over the phone after verifying your identity. This usually takes less than a minute.
You can also log into your online banking portal or mobile app. Your account number is typically displayed on the account overview page or in your account settings. If you have not set up online banking yet, you can do so using your card number and other identifying information, then find your account number once you are logged in.
If you have a paper statement from your bank, your account number appears at the top of the page. Older statements in your files are a quick reference if you need the number but do not have your card handy.
Updating automatic payments when you get a new card
When your card expires or you request a replacement, your bank will send you a new card with a new account number. Before the old card stops working, you need to update any recurring payments you have set up.
Make a list of every subscription, utility, loan payment, or other recurring charge linked to your old card. This includes streaming services, gym memberships, insurance payments, and phone bills. Log into each service's website or app, find the payment method section, and enter your new account number and card details.
Do this within a few days of receiving your new card. If you wait too long and a payment fails, you may be charged a late fee or have your service interrupted. Some companies will send you a notice that a payment failed, but others will not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my routing number?
No. Your account number identifies your specific credit card account with your bank. Your routing number is a code that identifies your bank itself and is used for wire transfers and direct deposits. You will not need your routing number for credit card transactions.
Can someone use my credit card if they only have my account number?
They cannot make a purchase, but they could potentially set up a recurring payment or change account settings if they also have other identifying information like your name and address. Never share your account number with strangers. If you believe someone has your account number, call your bank to report it.
Do I need my account number to make an online purchase?
No. When you shop online, you enter your card number, expiration date, and security code — not your account number. Your account number is for communicating with your bank or setting up payments directly with your bank.
What happens to my account number if my card is stolen?
Your bank will close the compromised account and issue you a new card with a new account number. You will need to update any automatic payments with the new number. The old account number will no longer be active.
Where do I find my account number if I only have my online banking login?
Log into your bank's website or app and go to your account overview or account details page. Your account number is usually displayed prominently at the top. If you cannot find it, look in the settings or account information section, or call the customer service number listed in the app.