Where to find your Bank of America routing number
Your routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific Bank of America branch. For wire transfers, you need the routing number that matches the location where you opened your account, not necessarily where you bank now.
The fastest way to find it: log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app, go to Account Details, and look for the routing number listed there. It will be labeled clearly as "Routing Number" or "ABA Routing Number." If you have checks from that account, the routing number is the first set of nine digits printed at the bottom left of the check.
If you cannot access your account online, call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 and have your account number ready. A representative can tell you the routing number over the phone in under a minute. You can also visit a local branch in person with your ID and account information.
Key Takeaways
- Your Bank of America routing number is a nine-digit code specific to the branch where you opened your account, and you can find it in your online account, on a check, or by calling customer service.
- The routing number for wire transfers is the same as the one for direct deposits or ACH transfers, but it must match the branch location on your account.
- Wire transfers require both the routing number and your full account number, and you should verify both with the bank before sending money.
- Different Bank of America locations may have different routing numbers, so confirm you have the correct one for your specific branch.
Why the routing number matters for wire transfers
When you send a wire transfer, the routing number tells the Federal Reserve and the receiving bank exactly which Bank of America location to pull the money from. Without it, the transfer cannot be processed, even if you provide the correct account number.
The routing number is not secret — it is public information tied to your bank and branch. What matters for security is that you pair it with the correct account number and send money only to people and institutions you trust. The routing number alone cannot be used to withdraw money from your account.
Routing number vs. account number: what you need for a wire
A wire transfer requires both pieces of information, and they do different jobs. The routing number identifies which bank and branch; the account number identifies which account at that branch. Bank of America account numbers are typically 10 digits long.
When you initiate a wire through Bank of America's website or app, you will enter both the routing number and the account number of the person or business receiving the money. The bank will ask you to confirm both before processing. If either number is wrong, the wire will be rejected or sent to the wrong account, and recovering the money can take weeks.
How to verify the routing number before sending
Before you send a wire, confirm the routing number with the recipient or their bank. Ask them directly: "What is the routing number for your Bank of America account?" Do not rely on a number someone sends you in an email or text without verifying it another way.
You can also call Bank of America's customer service line and give them the recipient's account number and routing number to confirm that the account exists and is in the name you expect. This step takes a few minutes and can prevent sending money to the wrong place.
Different routing numbers for different account types
Bank of America uses the same routing number for checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts at the same branch. However, if you have accounts at different Bank of America locations, each location may have its own routing number.
If you have moved or opened a new account at a different branch, make sure you are using the routing number for the branch associated with the account you are sending from. Your online account will show you which branch your account is tied to, and that is the routing number you need.
What happens if you use the wrong routing number
If you enter an incorrect routing number, Bank of America's system may reject the wire outright, or it may send the money to a different bank or branch. If the money reaches another financial institution, that bank is not obligated to return it, and recovery can take several weeks or longer.
If you realize you used the wrong routing number after sending a wire, contact Bank of America immediately. Have your wire confirmation number ready. The bank can sometimes recall the transfer if it has not yet been accepted by the receiving bank, but this is not may provide. The sooner you call, the better your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bank of America routing number the same for all branches?
No. Different Bank of America branches have different routing numbers. The routing number is tied to the specific branch where your account is located. You can find your branch's routing number in your online account or by calling customer service with your account number.
Can I use the routing number from a check if I do not have checks anymore?
Yes, if the check is from the same account you are sending from. The routing number printed on a check does not expire. However, if you have moved your account to a different branch or opened a new account, the old check's routing number may not be correct for your current account.
Do I need a routing number to receive a wire transfer?
Yes. The person or business sending you money will need your Bank of America routing number and your account number. You should provide both pieces of information together and confirm that the sender has written them down correctly before they initiate the transfer.
What if Bank of America tells me there is no routing number for my account?
This is rare, but it usually means there is a problem with your account or the information you provided. Call Bank of America again with your account number and ask to speak with someone who can look up your account details. Bring your ID to a branch if you continue to have trouble.
Can someone use my routing number to steal money from my account?
No. The routing number alone cannot be used to withdraw money. A thief would also need your account number, and even then, they would typically need additional verification to initiate a transfer. Keep your account number private, but the routing number is safe to share when needed for legitimate transfers.