Your account number is on the front of your card, usually below or next to the cardholder name
The account number is a 15- or 16-digit code printed on the front of your physical credit card. It sits in the middle section of the card, below your name. This is the number you use to log into your online account, make payments, dispute charges, or speak to customer service about your card.
Do not confuse your account number with your card number — they are the same thing. The card number and the account number are identical. When a bank or card issuer asks for your "account number," they mean the 15 or 16 digits on the front of your card.
If you have lost your physical card or it is damaged, you can find your account number in your online account portal, on your monthly statement, or by calling the customer service number on the back of a statement or bill.
Key Takeaways
- Your account number is the 15- or 16-digit code printed on the front of your card, below your name.
- The account number and card number are the same thing — do not look for two separate numbers.
- You can find your account number on your monthly statement, in your online account portal, or by calling customer service.
- Never share your full account number with anyone except your card issuer or a merchant you trust to charge your card.
- If your card is lost or stolen, contact your issuer immediately — they can cancel the card and issue a new one with a different account number.
Finding your account number on your monthly statement
Your monthly statement lists your account number near the top of the first page. It usually appears in the upper left or upper right corner, labeled "Account Number" or "Card Number." The statement is sent to the address on file with your card issuer, either by mail or email depending on your preferences.
If you have switched to paperless statements, log into your online account and download the most recent statement as a PDF. The account number will be in the same location. You can also request a paper statement by calling customer service if you do not have digital access.
Locating your account number in your online account portal
Log into your card issuer's website or mobile app using your username and password. Once you are logged in, your account number is usually displayed on the main dashboard or account overview page. It may also appear under a section labeled "Account Details," "Card Information," or "My Account."
If you cannot find it on the main page, look for a menu option that says "View Card Details" or "Account Settings." Some issuers hide the full account number for security and show only the last four digits on the main screen — in that case, click on the card image or a "View Full Number" link to see all 16 digits.
Getting your account number from customer service
Call the customer service number on the back of your statement or on your card issuer's website. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and the address on file ready. The representative will verify your identity and read your account number to you over the phone.
You can also use the issuer's automated phone system. Many card companies have an automated line where you can enter your Social Security number and PIN to retrieve your account number without speaking to a person. Check your statement or the issuer's website for the automated customer service number.
What to do if your card is lost or stolen
Contact your card issuer immediately by calling the number on the back of your statement or on their website. Do not wait. Tell them your card is lost or stolen, and they will cancel it right away. This stops anyone else from using the card.
Your issuer will issue you a new card with a new account number. The new card usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can still access your account online and make payments using your old account number — the card itself is blocked, but the account remains open. Once the new card arrives, use the new account number for any new transactions or account changes.
Why you should not share your account number
Your account number is sensitive information. Anyone with this number can attempt to make charges on your account, change your account settings, or contact your issuer pretending to be you. Never share your full account number by email, text, or phone unless you initiated the contact and you are certain you are speaking to your card issuer.
Legitimate merchants and your card issuer will never ask you to send your account number by email or text. If someone contacts you asking for your account number, hang up or delete the message and call your card issuer directly using the number on your statement to report it.
The difference between account number and other card numbers
Your card has several numbers, and it is easy to mix them up. The account number is the 15- or 16-digit code on the front of your card — this is what you use to log in and manage your account. The CVV or CVC is the three-digit security code on the back of your card, used only for online purchases. The expiration date is printed on the front and tells you when the card expires.
Your routing number and bank account number are different entirely — these are for your checking or savings account, not your credit card. If your card issuer is also your bank, you will have separate numbers for each account. Do not confuse them when paying bills or setting up automatic payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my card number?
Yes. The account number and card number are the same 15- or 16-digit code printed on the front of your card. Banks and card issuers use these terms interchangeably.
Can I use my account number to make a purchase online?
Yes, you can use your account number (the full card number) along with your expiration date and CVV to make an online purchase. However, only do this on secure websites you trust. Never share your full account number by email or text.
What if I forgot my online login password but need my account number?
Use the "Forgot Password" link on your card issuer's website to reset your password. Once you log back in, you can view your account number. If you cannot reset your password, call customer service — they can verify your identity and provide your account number over the phone.
Does my account number change if I get a new card?
Yes. When your card expires or you request a replacement, your issuer sends you a new card with a new account number. The old account number stops working once the new card is activated. Update any automatic payments or recurring charges to use the new number.
Can I find my account number on a credit report?
No. Credit reports from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion do not show your account numbers. They show only that you have an account with a particular issuer and your payment history. To find your account number, check your statement, log into your online account, or call customer service.