Bank of America uses ABA number 021000021 for most domestic wire transfers

An ABA number (American Banker Association routing number) is a nine-digit code that identifies which bank holds your account. When you send a wire transfer, the sending bank uses your ABA number to route money to the correct financial institution. Bank of America's primary ABA number for wire transfers is 021000021, though the number you need depends on which Bank of America location processes your account and which type of transfer you are sending.

The ABA number is not the same as your account number. Your account number identifies you personally within the bank; the ABA number identifies the bank itself. A wire transfer needs both pieces of information to reach the right person at the right institution.

Bank of America maintains multiple ABA numbers for different purposes and locations. If you are sending money to someone with a Bank of America account, you will use one of these numbers. If someone is sending money to your Bank of America account, they will need to use the correct ABA number for your specific branch or account type.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's main ABA number for wire transfers is 021000021, but the correct number depends on your account type and branch location.
  • You can find your specific ABA number by calling Bank of America customer service, checking your checks, or logging into your online banking account.
  • The ABA number routes the wire to Bank of America; your account number identifies which account within the bank receives the funds.
  • Using the wrong ABA number can delay a wire transfer or send it to the wrong bank, so verify the number before sending large amounts.
  • Bank of America wire transfers typically take one to two business days to complete, depending on the time the transfer is initiated and the receiving bank's processing speed.

Where to find your Bank of America ABA number

The fastest way to find your ABA number is to look at the bottom left corner of any check from your Bank of America account. The first nine digits printed there are your routing number (ABA number). This number is specific to your branch and account type.

You can also find your ABA number by logging into your Bank of America online banking account or mobile app. Go to your account details or account information section; the routing number will be listed there. If you do not have online access or cannot locate it, call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and provide your account number. A representative will give you the correct ABA number for your specific account.

Do not assume that 021000021 is your number just because it is Bank of America's primary wire transfer ABA. Different branches and account types may use different routing numbers. Using the wrong number can delay your wire or cause it to be rejected.

Why Bank of America has multiple ABA numbers

Bank of America operates thousands of branches across the United States, and the Federal Reserve assigns different routing numbers to different processing centers and account types. A checking account at one branch may have a different ABA number than a savings account at another branch, even though both are Bank of America accounts.

The ABA number tells the Federal Reserve's wire transfer system which Bank of America processing center should receive the incoming funds. Using the wrong number sends the wire to a different processing center, which then has to figure out where it actually belongs. This creates delays and can result in the wire being returned to the sender.

When you receive a wire transfer, the sending bank needs the ABA number that corresponds to your specific account. This is why Bank of America customer service will ask you which type of account you have and may give you a different number than the one you find on your checks.

How to send a wire transfer from Bank of America

To send a domestic wire transfer from Bank of America, you will need the recipient's name, account number, and their bank's ABA number. You do not use your own ABA number when sending a wire; you use the ABA number of the bank that will receive the money.

You can initiate a wire transfer through Bank of America's online banking platform, mobile app, or by visiting a branch in person. Online transfers typically take a few minutes to set up. Wire transfers initiated before 2 p.m. Eastern Time on a business day usually process the same day; transfers after 2 p.m. or on weekends process the next business day.

Bank of America charges a fee for outgoing domestic wire transfers, typically between $15 and $30 depending on whether you use online banking or visit a branch. Incoming wire transfers to your Bank of America account are usually free. Ask your Bank of America representative about current fees before sending a large wire.

Common mistakes when providing your ABA number

The most common error is confusing your ABA number with your account number. Your account number is longer (usually 10 to 12 digits) and identifies you specifically. Your ABA number is always nine digits and identifies Bank of America or your specific branch. When someone asks for your routing number, they want the nine-digit ABA number, not your full account number.

Another mistake is providing an outdated ABA number. If you have had your Bank of America account for many years, the routing number on old checks may no longer be current. Bank of America has consolidated branches and changed routing numbers over time. Always verify your current ABA number through online banking or by calling customer service rather than relying on old paperwork.

Some people provide the ABA number for the wrong account type. If you have both a checking and savings account at Bank of America, they may have different routing numbers. Make sure you know which account the wire transfer is going to and provide the correct ABA number for that account.

Wire transfer timing and what happens after you send

Once you send a wire transfer from Bank of America, the money leaves your account immediately and cannot be recalled. The receiving bank typically receives the funds within one to two business days, though some banks process wires faster. The exact timing depends on when you send the wire and how quickly the receiving bank's processing center handles incoming transfers.

You will receive a confirmation number when you send a wire transfer. Keep this number in case you need to track the transfer or dispute it later. If the wire does not arrive within two business days, contact Bank of America with your confirmation number and the recipient's bank information. Bank of America can trace the wire and determine where it is in the system.

If you provided the wrong ABA number, the wire may be sent to a different bank. That bank will typically reject the wire and send it back to Bank of America, which then returns it to your account. This process can take several days. For this reason, it is worth taking an extra minute to verify the ABA number before sending a large wire transfer.

International wire transfers and ABA numbers

ABA numbers are used only for domestic wire transfers within the United States. If you are sending money to an account outside the United States, you will need different information instead of an ABA number. International wire transfers require a SWIFT code (also called a BIC code), which identifies the foreign bank, and an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) or account number specific to that country.

Bank of America can send international wire transfers, but the process is different and the fees are higher than domestic transfers. International wires typically take three to five business days to arrive and may involve multiple banks in the transfer chain. If you need to send money internationally, contact Bank of America to ask about their international wire transfer process and current fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 021000021 the ABA number I should give people sending me money?

It may be, but you should verify first. Call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 or check your online banking account to confirm the ABA number for your specific account. While 021000021 is Bank of America's primary wire transfer routing number, your account may use a different one depending on your branch and account type.

What happens if I use the wrong ABA number for a wire transfer?

The wire will be sent to a different bank or processing center. That institution will typically reject it and send it back to the sending bank, which returns it to the sender's account. This process usually takes three to five business days. The money is not lost, but the transfer is delayed.

Can I find my ABA number on my debit card?

No. Your debit card does not show your routing number. You can find your ABA number on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking account, or by calling Bank of America customer service. Your debit card shows your card number and expiration date, but not your bank routing information.

Do I need a different ABA number for ACH transfers versus wire transfers?

You may. ACH transfers (automatic clearing house transfers) and wire transfers sometimes use different routing numbers at Bank of America. When you set up an ACH transfer or provide banking information for direct deposit, confirm with Bank of America whether the routing number is the same as your wire transfer ABA number.

How long does a Bank of America wire transfer take if I send it on a Friday?

Wire transfers sent on Friday after 2 p.m. Eastern Time will not process until Monday. The receiving bank will then process it, typically delivering the funds by Tuesday or Wednesday. If you need the money to arrive quickly, send the wire before 2 p.m. on a business day.