Your Bank of America checking account has three main numbers you need to know

A Bank of America checking account uses three separate numbers for different purposes: your account number, your routing number, and your check number. The account number identifies your specific account. The routing number identifies Bank of America itself and which branch processes your transactions. The check number appears on each physical check you write and tracks individual payments. You will use these numbers in different situations — some for setting up direct deposit, others for wire transfers, and others just to keep track of checks you have written.

Each number serves a specific function in how money moves in and out of your account. Knowing which number to use where prevents delays and mistakes when you are paying bills, receiving paychecks, or sending money to someone else.

Key Takeaways

  • Your account number is 10 digits and identifies only your checking account; your routing number is 9 digits and identifies Bank of America as the institution.
  • The routing number for most Bank of America checking accounts is 026009593, though some accounts may use a different routing number depending on your account type or location.
  • Check numbers are printed on the bottom left of each physical check and are unique to that individual check, not your account.
  • You will need your account and routing number together for direct deposits, wire transfers, and ACH payments, but you only need the check number when writing a paper check.

Where to find your account number

Your Bank of America account number appears in three places: on the bottom left of your checks (after the routing number), in the Bank of America mobile app under account details, and on your monthly statement. The account number is always 10 digits long. If you are looking at a check, read from left to right: the first 9 digits are the routing number, and the next 10 digits are your account number.

You can also find your account number by logging into your Bank of America online account, clicking on the checking account you want, and looking for "Account Number" in the account details section. If you do not have online access or a checkbook handy, you can call Bank of America customer service at the number on the back of your debit card, and they will provide it over the phone after verifying your identity.

Understanding your routing number

Your routing number is a 9-digit code that tells the banking system which institution to send money to or pull money from. For most Bank of America checking accounts, the routing number is 026009593. This number is the same for all Bank of America customers in most states, though some account types or older accounts may use a different routing number.

You will use this routing number when setting up direct deposit from your employer, arranging automatic bill payments, or receiving a wire transfer from another bank. The routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks, before your account number. If you are unsure whether your account uses the standard routing number, check your checkbook or call Bank of America to confirm.

What check numbers are and why they matter

A check number is a unique identifier printed on the bottom left of each physical check, before the routing number. These numbers start at 1001 on your first box of checks and increment by one for each check. The check number is not part of your account — it is specific to that individual check and helps you track which payments you have written.

When you write a check, the recipient deposits it, and the bank processes it, the check number appears on your statement so you can match it to your records. If a check gets lost or you need to cancel a payment, you reference the check number. The check number is also useful if you need to dispute a transaction or prove you sent a payment on a certain date.

When you need account number and routing number together

You will provide both your account number and routing number together in these situations: setting up direct deposit for your paycheck, arranging automatic bill payments through your bank, making an ACH transfer to another bank account, and receiving a wire transfer from someone outside your bank. These two numbers work as a pair to route money to the correct institution and the correct account within that institution.

When you set up direct deposit with your employer, you will typically fill out a form with both numbers. When you arrange an automatic payment to a utility company or credit card, you will enter both numbers into their payment system. Never share these numbers with someone you do not trust, as they can be used to set up unauthorized transfers from your account.

How these numbers differ from your debit card number

Your debit card number is completely separate from your account number, routing number, and check numbers. The debit card number is a 16-digit number printed on the front of your card and is used only for card transactions — purchases, ATM withdrawals, and online shopping. Your account and routing numbers are used for bank-to-bank transfers and direct deposits, not for card purchases.

If your debit card is lost or stolen, you can cancel it without affecting your checking account or the numbers associated with it. If someone has your debit card number but not your account and routing numbers, they cannot set up transfers from your bank account — they can only attempt card transactions, which are easier to dispute and reverse.

What happens if someone has your account and routing number

If you believe someone has your account and routing number, contact Bank of America immediately. These two numbers alone do not give someone access to your account — they cannot log in or see your balance — but they can be used to set up unauthorized ACH transfers or automatic payments from your account. Call the number on the back of your debit card or visit a branch to report the concern.

Bank of America can monitor your account for suspicious activity and help you reverse unauthorized transfers if they occur. You can also place a fraud alert on your account, which requires the bank to verify your identity before processing certain transactions. If an unauthorized transfer has already happened, report it within 60 days to receive protection under federal law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my account number or routing number?

You cannot change your routing number — it is assigned to Bank of America and your account type. You also cannot change your account number once it is issued. If you need a different account number for security reasons, you would need to open a new checking account, which would have a new account number but the same routing number.

Do I need my check number to set up direct deposit?

No. Direct deposit requires only your account number and routing number. The check number is printed on physical checks and is not used for electronic transfers or direct deposits.

What if I lose a check — do I need to report the check number?

If you lose a blank check, contact Bank of America to report it. Provide the check number so the bank can watch for it. If someone tries to cash a lost check, the bank can flag it. If you have already written the check and it is lost in the mail, you can stop payment on it by providing the check number to the bank.

Is my routing number the same if I have multiple Bank of America accounts?

Yes. All your Bank of America checking and savings accounts use the same routing number (usually 026009593). Only your account number changes from one account to another.

Can I use my account number alone to receive money from someone?

No. You need both your account number and routing number for someone to send you money via ACH transfer or direct deposit. Providing only the account number is not enough for the transfer to reach the correct bank and account.