Bank of America routing numbers depend on your account type and location
Bank of America uses different routing numbers for different states and account types. The routing number you need for a wire transfer is not the same as the one printed on your checks, and using the wrong one will delay or reject your transfer. The fastest way to find the correct number is to log into your Bank of America account online or call the bank directly, because the routing number tied to your specific account depends on which branch or region processes it.
If you are sending a domestic wire transfer (money staying within the United States), you will use a nine-digit routing number. If you are sending an international wire transfer, you will need a SWIFT code instead, which is a different identifier altogether. Bank of America's main SWIFT code for international transfers is BOFAUS3N, but some transactions may route through a different code depending on the receiving country and currency.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America routing numbers vary by state and account type, so you should confirm yours through your online account or by calling 1-800-432-1000 rather than using a number you find online.
- The routing number on your checks may not be the correct one for wire transfers, even though both are nine-digit numbers.
- For international wire transfers, you will need Bank of America's SWIFT code (BOFAUS3N) instead of a routing number.
- Once you have the correct routing number, you will also need the recipient's account number and the bank name to complete a wire transfer.
How to find your routing number through your Bank of America account
Log into your Bank of America online banking portal or mobile app and navigate to the account details or account information section. Most accounts display the routing number directly on the account summary page, sometimes labeled as "routing number" or "ABA number." If you do not see it immediately, look for a link that says "account details" or "wire transfer information."
You can also call Bank of America's customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and speak to a representative who can confirm the routing number for your specific account. Have your account number ready when you call. The representative will also tell you whether your account is set up to send wire transfers, since some account types have restrictions.
Routing numbers printed on checks versus wire transfer routing numbers
The routing number printed at the bottom left of your Bank of America checks is a real routing number, but it may not be the one you should use for wire transfers. Bank of America sometimes uses different routing numbers depending on whether the transaction is a check, an ACH transfer, or a wire transfer. Using the check routing number for a wire can cause the transfer to be rejected or delayed by several days.
This is why confirming the number through your account or by phone is worth the extra step. The routing number for wire transfers is sometimes called the "wire routing number" or "ABA number for wire transfers" to distinguish it from other routing numbers the bank maintains.
What you need besides the routing number to send a wire transfer
A routing number alone is not enough to send money. You will also need the recipient's full name, their account number, and the name of their bank. If the recipient's bank is not in the United States, you will need their SWIFT code or IBAN (International Bank Account Number) instead of a routing number.
Bank of America allows you to send wire transfers through your online account, by phone, or in person at a branch. Online transfers are usually free, while phone and in-person transfers may carry a fee. The bank will ask you to confirm all recipient details before processing the transfer, so double-check the account number and spelling of the name — wire transfers cannot be reversed once sent.
International wire transfers and SWIFT codes
If you are sending money outside the United States, you will use Bank of America's SWIFT code instead of a routing number. The main SWIFT code for Bank of America is BOFAUS3N. Some international transfers may route through a different code depending on the currency and destination country, so ask the recipient's bank which SWIFT code to use if you are unsure.
International wire transfers take longer than domestic ones — usually three to five business days — and may carry higher fees. Bank of America will also ask for the recipient's IBAN if they are in Europe, or other country-specific account identifiers. The bank's website has a section on international wire transfers that lists the information needed for each country.
Common mistakes that delay or reject wire transfers
Using an outdated or incorrect routing number is one of the most common reasons a wire transfer fails. If you have not sent a wire in several years, do not assume the routing number is still the same — Bank of America has consolidated branches and changed routing numbers in the past. Always confirm the current number before sending.
Mistyping the recipient's account number is another frequent problem. A single digit wrong will cause the transfer to be rejected or sent to the wrong account. Some people also confuse their own routing number with the recipient's bank's routing number — you use your own routing number when sending a wire, not the recipient's.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number on my Bank of America check the same as my wire transfer routing number?
Not always. While the number on your check is a valid routing number, Bank of America may use a different routing number for wire transfers. Log into your account or call the bank to confirm which number to use for wires, rather than relying on the check.
What is Bank of America's SWIFT code for international transfers?
The main SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N. However, some international transfers may use a different code depending on the destination country and currency. Ask the recipient's bank which code they need, or check Bank of America's website for country-specific codes.
Can I send a wire transfer through Bank of America's mobile app?
Yes, Bank of America allows wire transfers through its mobile app, online banking portal, by phone, and in person at branches. Online and app transfers are typically free, while phone and in-person transfers may have a fee.
What happens if I use the wrong routing number for a wire transfer?
The transfer may be rejected entirely, or it may be delayed while the bank tries to sort out where it should go. In rare cases, it could be sent to the wrong account. Contact Bank of America immediately if you realize you used the wrong number before the transfer is processed.
Do I need the recipient's routing number to send them money?
No. You use your own Bank of America routing number when sending a wire. The recipient needs to give you their account number and bank name, but not their routing number. If sending internationally, you will need their SWIFT code or IBAN instead.