Your account number is on your debit card, checks, and online banking

Your Bank of America account number is a unique identifier for your specific checking or savings account. You can find it in four places without calling or visiting a branch: on the front of your debit card (the 10-digit number), on the bottom left of any check you write, in the Online Banking portal under Account Details, or in the mobile app under Account Information.

The number you need depends on what you're doing. If you're setting up a direct deposit or wire transfer, you'll give someone your account number plus your routing number (which is 026009593 for most Bank of America accounts, though it varies by state and account type). If you're just verifying your account to a merchant or service, the account number alone is usually enough.

Your account number is not the same as your card number. Your debit card has its own 16-digit number printed on the front, which is different from your account number. This matters because some services ask for one and not the other.

Key Takeaways

  • Your 10-digit account number appears on your debit card, checks, and in Online Banking under Account Details.
  • Your account number is different from your 16-digit debit card number and your routing number.
  • For direct deposits and wire transfers, you need both your account number and your routing number (026009593 for most accounts).
  • If you don't have a debit card or checks, log into Online Banking or the mobile app to find your account number in seconds.

Finding your account number on your debit card

Open your wallet and look at the front of your Bank of America debit card. Below your name and card number, you'll see a series of numbers. The account number is the 10-digit number printed there—it's shorter than the 16-digit card number that runs across the middle of the card.

This is the fastest way to find your account number if you have your card with you. Write it down or take a photo if you need it for a form or phone call. The account number stays the same even if Bank of America reissues your card, so you can rely on it as a permanent identifier for your account.

Locating it on a check

If you have a checkbook, look at the bottom of any check. You'll see three groups of numbers separated by colons or vertical lines. The middle group is your account number (usually 10 digits), the first group is your routing number, and the last group is the check number itself.

The order at the bottom of a check is always: routing number : account number : check number. This layout is standard across all banks, so if you've used checks from another bank before, the pattern will be familiar. If you've run out of checks or never ordered them, this method won't work for you—move to Online Banking instead.

Checking Online Banking and the mobile app

Log into your Bank of America Online Banking account at bankofamerica.com using your username and password. Once you're logged in, look for "Accounts" or "Account Details" in the menu. Your account number will be displayed next to your account name (for example, "Checking - 1234567890").

If you prefer the mobile app, open it and tap the account you want to view. Your account number will appear at the top or in an "Account Information" section. You can usually tap the number to copy it to your clipboard, which saves you from typing it out by hand when filling in forms.

This method works even if you don't have your debit card or checks with you. It's also the safest way to find your number because you're viewing it in a secure, password-protected environment rather than writing it down from a physical card.

What to do if you can't access Online Banking

If you've forgotten your password or can't log in, you can reset it on the Bank of America website. Click "Forgot username or password?" and follow the prompts to verify your identity using your Social Security number and other personal information. This usually takes a few minutes and gets you back into your account.

If you still can't access your account online, call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and a form of ID ready. A representative can verify your identity and read your account number to you over the phone. Wait times vary, but calling during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) is usually faster.

Understanding your routing number and why you might need both

Your routing number is different from your account number. Bank of America's routing number is 026009593 for most accounts, but it can vary depending on which state your account was opened in and what type of account you have. Some older accounts or accounts opened in specific regions may have a different routing number.

When you set up direct deposit (for paychecks or tax refunds) or send a wire transfer, you'll need to provide both your account number and your routing number. The routing number tells the sending bank which Bank of America location to send the money to, and the account number tells that location which account within the bank should receive it. Giving only one without the other will cause the transaction to fail or be delayed.

You can find your routing number on the bottom left of any check, or by calling Bank of America. If you're unsure whether you have the correct routing number for your specific account, ask the person or organization requesting the information—they can often look it up for you or tell you where to verify it.

Keeping your account number secure

Your account number is not as sensitive as your full debit card number or PIN, but you should still treat it carefully. Don't share it with anyone who calls you claiming to be from Bank of America—the bank will never ask for your account number over the phone unless you initiated the call. Scammers sometimes pose as bank representatives to collect account information.

If you write your account number on a check or give it to a trusted payee (like your employer for direct deposit), that's normal and safe. But don't post it on social media, email it to unknown recipients, or give it to someone who contacts you unexpectedly. When in doubt, hang up and call Bank of America directly using the number on the back of your debit card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my account number the same as my card number?

No. Your account number is 10 digits and appears below your name on your debit card. Your card number is 16 digits and runs across the front of the card. They are different identifiers for different purposes.

Can I find my account number if I don't have my debit card?

Yes. Log into Online Banking or the mobile app and look under Account Details or Account Information. You can also call 1-800-432-1000 and a representative will read it to you after verifying your identity.

What's the difference between my account number and routing number?

Your account number identifies your specific account within Bank of America. Your routing number (026009593 for most accounts) identifies which Bank of America location processes your account. You need both for direct deposits and wire transfers.

Do I need my account number to use my debit card?

No. You only need your card number, expiration date, and CVV to make purchases or pay bills online. Your account number is used for bank-to-bank transfers, direct deposits, and setting up automatic payments.

Will my account number change if Bank of America reissues my card?

No. Your account number stays the same for the life of the account, even if you get a new debit card. The card number changes, but the account number does not.