Bank of America's routing number depends on which state your account is in
Bank of America does not use a single routing number for all customers. The number you need for a wire transfer depends on the state where your account is held. Most Bank of America accounts use one of two main routing numbers: 021000021 for most states, or 121000248 for accounts in certain regions. Some older accounts or specific account types may use different numbers.
The routing number is a nine-digit code that tells the sending bank which Bank of America location to send your money to. Using the wrong number can delay your transfer or send it to the wrong place. Before you wire money, confirm which number applies to your account by checking your bank statements, calling Bank of America directly, or logging into your online banking.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America's most common routing number is 021000021, but some accounts use 121000248 depending on the state where the account was opened.
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks, or you can find it by logging into your Bank of America online account under account details.
- Calling Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 is the fastest way to confirm the correct routing number for your specific account before sending a wire.
- Using an incorrect routing number can delay your wire transfer by several days or route the money to the wrong Bank of America branch.
Where to find your routing number on a check
If you have a Bank of America check, the routing number is printed on the bottom left corner. It is the first nine-digit number you see. The account number follows it, and the check number appears on the right side. This is the fastest way to find your routing number if you have checks available.
Not all checks show the same routing number, especially if your account has been transferred between branches or if you have an older account. If your checks show a different nine-digit number than 021000021 or 121000248, use the number on your checks instead.
How to confirm your routing number online or by phone
Log into your Bank of America online account and go to the account details or account information section. The routing number is usually listed there alongside your account number. This method works for any account type and takes less than a minute.
If you do not have online access or want to be certain before wiring money, call Bank of America's customer service at 1-800-432-1000. Have your account number ready. A representative can confirm the exact routing number for your account in seconds and can also tell you if there are any restrictions on wire transfers from your account.
The difference between routing numbers for domestic and international wires
Bank of America routing numbers work for domestic wire transfers within the United States. If you are sending money to another country, you will need different information: the recipient's SWIFT code (also called a BIC code) and their IBAN (International Bank Account Number), if applicable. These are not the same as a routing number.
For international wires from Bank of America, you may also need the name and address of the receiving bank, not just the recipient's account details. Bank of America's international wire department can walk you through what information you need based on the country you are sending to. Call 1-800-432-1000 and ask for international wire services.
What happens if you use the wrong routing number
If you enter an incorrect routing number, the sending bank may reject the transfer before it leaves, which means your money stays in your account and you are notified of the error. In other cases, the transfer may go through but arrive at the wrong Bank of America branch or another bank entirely. This can add three to five business days to the process while the money is traced and rerouted.
If your wire goes to the wrong place, contact Bank of America immediately with your wire confirmation number. The bank can attempt to recall the transfer, but success depends on whether the receiving bank has already released the funds. This is why confirming your routing number before sending is worth the extra minute.
Bank of America routing numbers by region
The two most common Bank of America routing numbers are 021000021 and 121000248. The first applies to most accounts nationwide. The second is used for accounts in certain states or older accounts. A small number of accounts may use other routing numbers if they were opened at a legacy branch or through a merger.
Rather than trying to guess which number applies to you, use one of the methods above: check your checks, log into online banking, or call the bank. This takes less time than researching regional codes and removes the risk of sending money to the wrong place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bank of America's routing number the same for checking and savings accounts?
Yes. Both checking and savings accounts at Bank of America use the same routing number. The routing number identifies the bank and branch, not the account type. Your account number is what distinguishes between your checking and savings accounts.
Can I use the routing number from an old Bank of America check?
Usually yes, but not always. If your checks are more than five years old or were issued before a branch merger or name change, the routing number may have changed. Check your most recent statement or log into online banking to confirm. When in doubt, call the bank.
What if my wire transfer is rejected because of the routing number?
The sending bank will notify you of the rejection and return your money to your account within one to three business days. You can then resubmit the wire with the correct routing number. Keep your wire confirmation number so you can reference it if you need to contact Bank of America about the failed transfer.
Do I need a different routing number if I moved to a different state?
Not necessarily. Your routing number is tied to the branch where your account was opened, not your current location. If you moved but kept the same account, use the original routing number. If you opened a new account in your new state, that account may have a different routing number.