Bank of America's routing numbers vary by location and transfer type
Bank of America does not use a single routing number for all wire transfers. The number you need depends on which state your account is in and whether you are sending a domestic wire, an international wire, or a wire to another Bank of America account. Using the wrong routing number will delay your transfer or cause it to be rejected.
The most commonly used Bank of America routing number for domestic wires is 021000021, which covers most states. However, some states have their own routing numbers, and international wires use a different system entirely. Before you initiate a wire, you need to confirm which number applies to your specific transfer.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America's primary domestic wire routing number is 021000021, but some states have separate routing numbers that you must use instead.
- Your account statement, online banking portal, or a call to Bank of America customer service will show the correct routing number for your account location.
- International wires require Bank of America's SWIFT code (BOFAUS3N) rather than a routing number, plus additional information like the recipient's IBAN or account number.
- Using an incorrect routing number will not send your money to the wrong person, but it will delay the transfer or cause it to bounce back to your account.
How to find your Bank of America routing number
The fastest way to find the correct routing number is to log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app. Look for account details or account information — the routing number is usually listed there alongside your account number. This method guarantees you have the number tied to your specific account and location.
You can also call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and ask for the routing number for wire transfers. Have your account number ready. A representative will confirm the correct number based on your account location and the type of wire you are sending.
Your Bank of America debit card or checkbook also contains routing information. The first nine digits at the bottom left of a check are the routing number, though you should verify this matches what your online account shows before wiring a large amount.
Routing numbers for specific states
While 021000021 works for most states, Bank of America maintains separate routing numbers for some locations. States with their own routing numbers include California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois, among others. If your account is in one of these states, using the state-specific number is required for domestic wires to process correctly.
The easiest approach is to not memorize state-specific numbers at all. Instead, retrieve the routing number from your account each time you wire money. This eliminates the risk of using an outdated or incorrect number and takes less than a minute.
International wire transfers and SWIFT codes
International wires do not use routing numbers. Instead, Bank of America uses a SWIFT code, which is BOFAUS3N for all Bank of America accounts in the United States. SWIFT codes are a global standard for identifying banks in international transfers.
When sending an international wire from Bank of America, you will also need the recipient's IBAN (International Bank Account Number) or their local account number, depending on the country. Bank of America's website has a tool to help you gather the correct information for the country you are sending to. You may also call customer service to confirm what details the receiving bank requires.
What happens if you use the wrong routing number
Using an incorrect routing number does not send your money to a random account. Instead, the wire will either be rejected and returned to your Bank of America account, or it will be delayed while the banking system tries to match the number to a valid institution. In either case, you will not lose the money, but you may wait several business days for it to come back.
If a wire is rejected, Bank of America may charge a fee for the failed transfer, typically between $15 and $25. To avoid this, double-check the routing number against your account information before you confirm the wire, especially if you are wiring a large amount or to an unfamiliar recipient.
Domestic wires between Bank of America accounts
If you are sending money from one Bank of America account to another Bank of America account, you do not need a routing number at all. Instead, you can transfer the money using the recipient's account number and the online transfer tool in your Bank of America account. This method is faster and has no fee.
To set this up, log into your account, select "Transfer Money," and choose "To another Bank of America account." Enter the recipient's account number and the amount. The transfer usually completes the same day if both accounts are in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 021000021 the routing number for all Bank of America wire transfers?
No. While 021000021 is the most common Bank of America routing number and works for most states, some states have their own routing numbers. Check your account details or call customer service to confirm the correct number for your location before wiring money.
Can I find my routing number on my debit card?
Your debit card does not display a routing number. However, the first nine digits at the bottom left of a Bank of America check are the routing number. Verify this matches your online account information before using it for a wire.
What is the difference between a routing number and a SWIFT code?
A routing number identifies a specific bank branch within the United States and is used for domestic transfers. A SWIFT code identifies a bank internationally and is used for wires sent outside the U.S. Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N.
What should I do if my wire was rejected?
Check your Bank of America account — the money should be back within one to three business days. Review the rejection reason, confirm the correct routing number with customer service, and try the wire again. You may be charged a fee for the failed attempt.
Do I need a routing number to transfer money between my own Bank of America accounts?
No. Use the online transfer tool in your Bank of America account and enter only the recipient account number. These internal transfers are free and usually complete the same day.