Bank of America checking accounts use a 10-digit account number
Your Bank of America checking account number is always 10 digits long. You'll find it on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal, on your debit card statements, and in the Bank of America mobile app. The account number itself is just those 10 digits — nothing more.
When you're making a payment or setting up a transfer, you may also need your bank's routing number, which is separate from your account number. Bank of America's routing number depends on which state your account was opened in, but it's always 9 digits. Together, your 10-digit account number and 9-digit routing number make up the full information needed for ACH transfers, wire transfers, and direct deposits.
The account number stays the same for the life of the account, even if you close and reopen a checking account with Bank of America. If you open a new account, you'll get a new 10-digit number.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America checking account numbers are always 10 digits, found on checks, statements, and in the mobile app.
- Your account number is different from your routing number, which is 9 digits and varies by state.
- You need both your account number and routing number to set up direct deposits, ACH transfers, and wire transfers.
- The 10-digit account number remains the same throughout the life of your account.
Where to find your 10-digit account number
The easiest place to locate your account number is on a check. Look at the bottom of the check: the first set of numbers on the left is your routing number (9 digits), and the second set is your account number (10 digits). The third set is your check number.
If you don't have checks handy, log into your Bank of America online banking account or open the mobile app. Your account number appears on the account summary page, usually near the top where your account type and balance are displayed. You can also call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and provide your Social Security number and other identifying information to confirm your account number over the phone.
Bank of America statements — whether you receive them by mail or view them online — also display your full account number at the top of each page. Your debit card itself does not print the account number, but your monthly statement will show it.
Why you need both account number and routing number
When you set up direct deposit from an employer or government benefit, you'll be asked for both numbers. The routing number tells the sending bank which Bank of America location to send the money to; the account number tells that location which specific account to deposit it into. Without both, the deposit will fail or go to the wrong place.
The same applies to ACH transfers (electronic transfers between bank accounts), bill payments through your bank, and peer-to-peer transfers. Wire transfers also require both numbers, though some banks ask for an additional SWIFT code if the wire is going internationally.
If you're paying a bill by check, you only need to write the check number on it — the routing and account numbers are already printed at the bottom. But if you're setting up automatic payments or sending money electronically, always have both numbers ready.
Bank of America routing numbers vary by state
Bank of America has multiple routing numbers depending on which state your account was opened in. The most common routing number is 026009593, used for accounts opened in many states. However, if your account was opened in California, it may be 121000248. Other states have their own routing numbers as well.
You can find your specific routing number by checking a blank check from your account, logging into online banking, or calling customer service. The routing number printed on your checks is the correct one for your account, so use that if you're unsure.
When you move to a different state, your routing number does not change — it stays tied to where you originally opened the account. You only get a new routing number if you close the account and open a brand new one.
What happens if you give out your account number
Sharing your 10-digit account number with legitimate businesses — like your employer for direct deposit, your utility company for bill payments, or your bank for transfers — is safe and necessary. These are standard transactions that happen millions of times daily.
However, never share your account number with someone who contacts you unsolicited, claims to be from your bank, or asks for it via email or text. Bank of America will never ask for your full account number by email or phone unless you initiated the contact. If someone calls claiming to be from Bank of America and asks for your account number, hang up and call the bank directly using the number on your debit card or statement.
If your account number is compromised, contact Bank of America immediately. You can request a new account number, though this is rare — the bank can usually block fraudulent transactions without closing your account. Bank of America's fraud protection covers unauthorized transactions, so you're not liable for charges you didn't make if you report them promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same as my card number?
No. Your debit card number is different from your account number. The card number is printed on the front of your card; your account number is printed on checks and statements. You need the account number for transfers and direct deposits, and the card number for purchases and ATM withdrawals.
Can I change my 10-digit account number?
Bank of America does not allow you to change your account number while keeping the same account open. If you need a new number, you must close the current account and open a new one, which will be assigned a new 10-digit number. This is rarely necessary unless your account has been compromised.
What if I forget my account number?
Log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app to view it immediately. You can also call 1-800-432-1000, visit a branch in person with your ID, or look at any recent statement or check. The number is always available through these channels.
Do I need my account number to use my debit card?
No. Your debit card number is all you need for purchases and ATM withdrawals. You only need your account number for direct deposits, transfers between banks, bill payments set up through your bank, and wire transfers.