Bank of America account numbers have 10 digits

Your Bank of America account number is always 10 digits long. You will see it on your checks, your debit card statements, and when you log into your online banking. The full routing and account information together is longer, but the account number itself is always those 10 digits.

This 10-digit format is specific to Bank of America. Other banks use different lengths — some use 8 digits, others use 12 or more. But if you have a Bank of America account, you can count on 10 digits every time.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America account numbers are always 10 digits, never more or fewer.
  • You can find your account number on the bottom left of your checks, on your statements, or by logging into your online banking.
  • The routing number (which identifies Bank of America itself) is separate from your account number and is 9 digits.
  • When you set up direct deposit or wire transfers, you will need both your routing number and your 10-digit account number.

Where to find your 10-digit account number

The easiest place to look is the bottom left corner of any check you have. The account number appears after the routing number and before the check number. If you do not have checks, you can find it on your monthly statement or in your online banking portal.

Log into your Bank of America account online or through the mobile app, go to your account details or account information section, and your account number will be listed there. You can also call Bank of America customer service at the number on the back of your debit card, and they will read it to you over the phone.

The difference between your account number and routing number

Your account number and routing number are two separate pieces of information, and both are needed for certain transactions. Your routing number is 9 digits and identifies Bank of America as the bank. Your account number is 10 digits and identifies your specific account within that bank.

Think of it this way: the routing number is like the address of the bank branch, and the account number is like your mailbox number inside that branch. When you set up direct deposit from an employer, you will need to provide both numbers so the money goes to the right bank and the right account. The same applies for wire transfers or automatic bill payments.

Why banks use different account number lengths

Different banks chose different account number lengths when they were first set up, and those choices stuck. Bank of America settled on 10 digits decades ago, and changing it now would create confusion for millions of customers and require updating countless systems.

The length does not matter for security or function — a 10-digit number works just as well as an 8-digit or 12-digit number. It is straightforward the standard Bank of America uses. When you move money between banks or set up transfers, the receiving bank will know what length account number to expect based on which bank it is.

What to do if you cannot find your account number

If you have lost your checks and do not have access to your statement, the fastest way to find your account number is to log into your online banking. Bank of America displays it prominently in the account details section, usually on the main dashboard or under "Account Information."

If you do not have online banking set up yet, call the customer service number on the back of your debit card. A representative can read your account number to you over the phone. You can also visit a Bank of America branch in person with your ID, and a teller will provide it.

Using your account number safely

Your account number is not secret in the same way your PIN or password is. It appears on every check you write, so anyone who receives a check from you will see it. However, you should not share it with people you do not trust, and you should never type it into a website unless you are certain the site is legitimate.

If you are setting up direct deposit with an employer or paying a bill online, the company asking for your account number should be one you recognize and trust. Bank of America will never ask you for your account number by email or text message — if you receive such a request, it is a scam.

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 and is used for purchases and ATM withdrawals. Your account number is 10 digits and is used for transfers, direct deposit, and bill payments. You can have the same account number even if you get a new debit card.

Can I change my account number?

Bank of America does not allow you to change your account number yourself. If you have a specific reason you need a new account number — such as fraud or identity theft — contact Bank of America directly and explain the situation. They will determine whether a new account is necessary.

What if I give someone the wrong account number?

If you provide an incorrect 10-digit account number, the money will either be rejected or sent to the wrong account. If it goes to the wrong account, contact Bank of America and the sender right away. The bank can sometimes recover the funds, but it depends on whether the wrong account exists and how quickly you report the error.

Do I need my account number to use the ATM?

No. You only need your debit card and PIN to use an ATM. Your account number is not required for ATM withdrawals or balance checks. You will need it for direct deposit, wire transfers, and setting up bill payments.