Bank of America's transit number is 026009593, and it appears on the bottom left of your checks
The transit number (also called a routing number) identifies which Bank of America branch or processing center handles your account. When you send a wire transfer, the receiving bank uses this number to route your money to the correct financial institution. Bank of America's main transit number for most accounts is 026009593, though some specialty accounts or older checks may show a different number.
The transit number is always the first set of nine digits printed at the bottom left of your check, before your account number. If you don't have a check handy, you can find it on your Bank of America statement, in your online banking portal, or by calling customer service at the number on the back of your debit card.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America's standard transit number is 026009593, printed on the bottom left of checks before your account number.
- Different Bank of America divisions or account types may use different transit numbers, so verify the number on your specific check or statement.
- You need both your transit number and your full account number to complete a wire transfer.
- If you're receiving a wire, provide the sender with your transit number, account number, and full name exactly as it appears on your account.
Why wire transfers need a transit number
A wire transfer moves money directly from one bank account to another through the Federal Reserve or SWIFT network. The transit number tells the system which bank to send the money to — without it, the transfer cannot be routed. Think of it like an address: your account number is the house, but the transit number is the city and state that tells the mail carrier which post office handles delivery.
Bank of America processes thousands of wire transfers daily across multiple divisions and regions. The transit number ensures your outgoing wire reaches the correct receiving bank, and that incoming wires land in the right Bank of America account.
Locating your transit number on a check
Open any check from your Bank of America account and look at the bottom left corner. You will see nine digits printed in a special magnetic ink format. This is your transit number. It always comes first, followed by your account number (which is longer), and then your check number on the far right.
The order is always: transit number (9 digits) | account number | check number. If you have multiple Bank of America accounts, each one may have the same transit number or a different one depending on the account type and which processing center handles it. Always use the transit number from a check linked to the account you are sending from or receiving into.
When Bank of America uses different transit numbers
Most personal checking and savings accounts at Bank of America use 026009593. However, business accounts, trust accounts, and older accounts may use different transit numbers. If you opened your account many years ago or have a specialty account type, the number on your check may differ from the standard one.
The safest approach is always to use the transit number printed on your own check rather than assuming it matches the standard number. If you cannot find a check, log into your Bank of America online banking account, go to your account details, and look for the routing number listed there. You can also call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 and provide your account number; they will confirm the correct transit number for your specific account.
What information you need to send or receive a wire
To send a wire transfer from Bank of America, you will need the receiving bank's transit number, the recipient's account number, and the recipient's full name. To receive a wire into your Bank of America account, you provide the sender with your transit number (026009593 or the one on your check), your full account number, and your name exactly as it appears on your account.
Write down or copy these details carefully — even a single digit wrong in the transit or account number will send the money to the wrong place. Many wire transfers cannot be reversed once sent, so double-check all numbers before confirming the transfer with Bank of America.
How to initiate a wire transfer at Bank of America
You can send a wire transfer through Bank of America online banking, by phone, or in person at a branch. Online is usually fastest: log in, select "Transfer Money," choose "Wire Transfer," and enter the receiving bank's transit number, the recipient's account number, the recipient's name, and the amount. Bank of America will show you a confirmation screen before you authorize the transfer.
By phone, call 1-800-869-3557 and speak with a representative who will walk you through the details. Wire transfers typically process the same business day if sent before the cutoff time (usually 2 p.m. Eastern). Some transfers may take one business day depending on the receiving bank and the time of day you send it.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common error is confusing the transit number with the account number. The transit number is always nine digits and identifies the bank; the account number is longer and identifies your specific account within that bank. Mixing these up will send your wire to the wrong place.
Another mistake is using an outdated transit number from an old check. If you have not used a check in several years, verify the current number with Bank of America before sending a large wire. Also, make sure the recipient's name on the wire matches their account exactly — banks reject or delay transfers when names do not match their records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 026009593 the transit number for all Bank of America accounts?
It is the standard transit number for most Bank of America personal and business accounts, but some specialty accounts, older accounts, or accounts at certain divisions may use a different number. Check the bottom left of your own check to be certain, or contact Bank of America directly.
Can I use the transit number from someone else's Bank of America check?
No. Always use the transit number from a check linked to the account you are sending from or receiving into. While many Bank of America accounts share the same transit number, some do not, and using the wrong one will route your wire incorrectly.
What happens if I send a wire to the wrong transit number?
The wire will be routed to a different bank or account. Once sent, most wire transfers cannot be reversed. Contact Bank of America immediately if you realize you made an error; they may be able to contact the receiving bank and attempt recovery, but this is not may provide.
Do I need a transit number to receive a wire transfer?
Yes. The person sending you money needs your Bank of America transit number, your account number, and your name to complete the wire. Provide all three pieces of information to avoid delays or misdirected transfers.
How long does a Bank of America wire transfer take?
Domestic wire transfers typically process the same business day if sent before 2 p.m. Eastern Time. International wires may take one to three business days depending on the receiving country and bank. Bank of America will provide an estimated delivery time when you initiate the transfer.