Bank of America's routing numbers vary by location and transaction type

Bank of America has multiple routing numbers for California, and which one you use depends on where your account is held and what kind of transfer you're sending. The most commonly used routing number for Bank of America accounts in California is 121000248, which works for most domestic wire transfers and ACH payments from California branches.

However, Bank of America also maintains separate routing numbers for specific purposes — some for wire transfers, some for ACH transfers, and some for different regions within California. Using the wrong number won't necessarily stop your transfer, but it may slow it down or route it through an unnecessary step. The safest approach is to confirm the exact routing number with your Bank of America branch or through your online banking portal before you send money.

Key Takeaways

  • The primary Bank of America routing number for California wire transfers is 121000248, though other numbers exist for specific transaction types.
  • You can find your account's correct routing number by logging into your Bank of America online account, calling your branch, or checking the bottom left of your checks.
  • Wire transfers and ACH transfers sometimes use different routing numbers, so confirm which type of transfer you're sending before you proceed.
  • Bank of America routing numbers are the same across all California locations — the number doesn't change based on which branch you use.

Where to find your Bank of America routing number

The easiest way to locate your routing number is to log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app. Once you're signed in, go to your account details or account information section — most banks display the routing number alongside your account number in a single view.

If you don't have online access, call your local Bank of America branch directly and ask for the routing number associated with your specific account type. You can also look at the bottom left corner of any check from your account — the first nine digits printed there are your routing number. This method works because checks are printed with the routing number built in.

Wire transfers versus ACH transfers and routing numbers

Bank of America uses the same routing number (121000248) for most wire transfers and ACH transfers originating from California. However, some banks maintain separate routing numbers for these two transaction types, so it's worth confirming with your bank which number applies to your specific transfer.

Wire transfers move money faster — usually within hours — and are typically used for larger amounts or time-sensitive payments. ACH transfers take one to three business days and are commonly used for recurring payments like payroll or bill payments. The routing number itself doesn't determine the speed; the transaction type does. But using the correct routing number for your transaction type prevents unnecessary delays.

What happens if you use the wrong routing number

If you enter an incorrect routing number, the transfer may still go through if the number belongs to a real bank, but it will be routed to the wrong financial institution. That bank will then have to figure out where the money was supposed to go, which can add several business days to the process.

If the routing number is completely invalid or doesn't exist, your bank will typically reject the transfer before it leaves your account and return the funds to you. In either case, you'll need to resubmit the transfer with the correct information. This is why confirming the routing number before you send is worth the extra minute.

International wire transfers from Bank of America in California

If you're sending money outside the United States, you won't use a routing number at all. Instead, you'll need the recipient's SWIFT code (also called a BIC code) and their international bank account number, which varies by country. Bank of America's own SWIFT code for international transfers is BOFAUS3N.

International wire transfers take longer than domestic ones — typically three to five business days — and may involve additional fees. Bank of America will ask you for the recipient's bank details in a specific format, and they'll guide you through the process when you initiate the transfer. If you're unsure whether you need a routing number or a SWIFT code, tell the bank representative which country you're sending money to, and they'll tell you exactly what information you need.

Confirming routing numbers before sending large amounts

For any wire transfer over a few thousand dollars, it's worth taking an extra step to verify the routing number is correct. Call your Bank of America branch and have them confirm the number matches your account. You can also ask them to verify that the receiving bank's information is correct — some scams work by getting people to wire money to accounts that look legitimate but belong to fraudsters.

If you're sending money to someone you don't know well or to a new recipient, ask them to provide their routing number and account number in writing, and verify it independently if possible. Banks cannot reverse wire transfers once they've been sent, so confirming details upfront is your only protection against sending money to the wrong place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Bank of America routing number the same for all California branches?

Yes. Bank of America uses the same routing number (121000248) for all California locations. The routing number is tied to the bank itself, not to individual branches. Your specific branch location doesn't change which routing number you use.

Can I use my routing number to receive wire transfers?

Yes. The same routing number you use to send wire transfers is the one other people use to send money to your account. When someone sends you a wire transfer, they'll need your routing number, your account number, and your full name as it appears on your account.

What if Bank of America gave me a different routing number than 121000248?

Bank of America maintains multiple routing numbers for different purposes and account types. If your bank provided you with a different number, use the one they gave you — it's correct for your specific account. When in doubt, ask your branch which routing number applies to wire transfers from your account.

Do I need a routing number to transfer money between my own Bank of America accounts?

No. Transfers between your own accounts at the same bank typically don't require a routing number. You can usually move money between your accounts through online banking by selecting the accounts and the amount. Routing numbers are needed when you're sending money to someone else's account at a different bank.