Your account number is printed at the bottom left of the check, after the routing number
On a Bank of America check, three numbers appear along the bottom in magnetic ink: the routing number (leftmost, nine digits), your account number (middle section, typically 10 digits), and the check number (rightmost, usually four digits). The account number is the middle set of digits between the routing number and the check number.
The account number identifies your specific checking account at Bank of America. You will need it to set up direct deposits, authorize wire transfers, arrange automatic bill payments, or provide banking details to an employer or creditor. It is not the same as your debit card number or your online banking username.
If the magnetic ink numbers are faded or hard to read, you can also find your account number on your monthly statement, in your online banking portal, or by calling Bank of America's customer service line at 1-800-432-1000.
Key Takeaways
- The account number on a Bank of America check is the middle set of digits printed in magnetic ink at the bottom, between the routing number and check number.
- Your account number is 10 digits long and identifies only your specific checking account, not your debit card or savings account.
- You can locate your account number on your monthly statement, in your online banking portal, or by contacting Bank of America directly if the check is illegible.
- The routing number (leftmost) and account number (middle) together allow others to send you money via ACH transfer or direct deposit.
How the three numbers at the bottom of a check work together
Bank of America checks display three separate identifiers in the MICR line—the magnetic ink character recognition strip at the bottom. The routing number tells the banking system which Bank of America branch or processing center to send the check to. The account number tells that branch which customer account to debit. The check number is simply a reference for your own records and appears in the upper right corner as well.
When you write a check, the recipient's bank reads all three numbers to process the payment. If you provide your routing and account number to set up a direct deposit or recurring payment, the system uses those two numbers alone—the check number is not needed for electronic transfers.
Why you might need your account number
Your Bank of America account number is required for several common transactions. An employer needs it to set up direct deposit of your paycheck. A creditor or lender may ask for it to arrange an automatic monthly payment from your checking account. If you are sending money to someone else via ACH transfer, you will provide your account number so they can deposit funds into your account.
You may also need your account number to link your Bank of America account to a third-party app or service, such as a budgeting tool or investment platform. Some of these services ask for your routing number and account number to verify ownership of the account before connecting it.
Finding your account number if your checks are damaged or unavailable
If your checks are worn, faded, or you do not have a check on hand, you can find your account number in several other places. Log into your Bank of America online banking portal and look at your account details or settings page—the account number appears there. You can also find it on your monthly paper statement or electronic statement, usually near the top or in the account summary section.
If you prefer to speak with someone, call Bank of America's customer service at 1-800-432-1000. Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and a form of identification ready. A representative can confirm your account number over the phone within a few minutes.
The difference between your account number and other Bank of America identifiers
Your Bank of America account number applies only to the specific checking account it is printed on. If you have multiple accounts—a checking account and a savings account, for example—each one has its own account number. Your debit card number is different from your account number; the card number is used for purchases and ATM withdrawals, while the account number is used for transfers and direct deposits.
Your online banking username and password are separate credentials that let you log in and manage your accounts. Your routing number is the same across all Bank of America accounts in your region, but your account number is unique to each individual account you hold.
What to do if you share your account number with someone
Sharing your account number with a trusted person—such as an employer, lender, or family member—is safe for the purpose of receiving money or setting up authorized payments. The account number alone cannot be used to withdraw money from your account without your permission or knowledge. However, someone with your account number and routing number could potentially set up an unauthorized ACH debit if they also have access to your account or can forge authorization.
If you believe your account number has been compromised or used without your permission, contact Bank of America immediately at 1-800-432-1000. Report the unauthorized transaction, and the bank can investigate and reverse fraudulent ACH debits within a set timeframe. You can also place a fraud alert on your account to prevent new unauthorized activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my account number the same on every check I order?
Yes. Every check from the same Bank of America checking account will have the same account number printed at the bottom. The check number changes with each new check, but the account and routing numbers remain constant for that account.
Can someone withdraw money from my account if they only have my account number?
Not without additional information or authorization. Your account number alone is not enough to initiate a withdrawal. However, combined with your routing number, someone could attempt to set up an unauthorized ACH debit. Contact your bank immediately if you suspect misuse.
What if the magnetic ink numbers on my check are smudged or illegible?
You can still use the check—the recipient's bank has backup methods to process it. For your own records, retrieve your account number from your statement, online banking portal, or by calling Bank of America customer service.
Do I need my account number to use my debit card?
No. Your debit card number is printed on the card itself and is used for purchases and ATM withdrawals. Your account number is separate and is primarily used for transfers, direct deposits, and bill payments.