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Finding Your Bank of America Routing Number

Bank of America routing numbers depend on which state your account is in

Bank of America does not have a single routing number for all customers. The routing number you need depends on the state where your account was opened or where your branch is located. Most Bank of America accounts use one of two main routing numbers: 021000021 for the majority of states, or 121000248 for accounts in some western states. However, other routing numbers exist for specific regions and account types.

You need the correct routing number when you set up direct deposit, arrange wire transfers, or authorize automatic payments. Using the wrong routing number can delay or misdirect your transaction. The safest way to find your specific routing number is to check your check, call Bank of America directly, or log into your online account.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's most common routing number is 021000021, but the correct one depends on your account's home state.
  • Your routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks, before your account number.
  • You can find your routing number by calling Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000, logging into your online account, or visiting a branch.
  • Wire transfers and direct deposit both require the correct routing number for your state to process without delay.
  • Bank of America maintains different routing numbers for different regions, so never assume a number works without confirming it matches your account location.

How to find your routing number on a check

The easiest way to locate your routing number is to look at a check from your Bank of America account. At the bottom left of the check, you will see nine digits printed in a specific order. The first nine digits are your routing number. The next set of digits is your account number. The last number on the right is the check number.

If you do not have a check available, you can request one from Bank of America or use one of the other methods described below. Do not guess at your routing number, because an incorrect number will cause your transaction to fail or be sent to the wrong account.

Finding your routing number online or by phone

Log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app and navigate to the account details or settings section. Many accounts display the routing number directly on the account information page. If you cannot find it there, the app usually has a "contact us" or "account information" section that lists it.

You can also call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000. Have your account number ready when you call. A representative will confirm your identity and provide your routing number within minutes. If you prefer to speak with someone in person, visit your local Bank of America branch with your ID and ask for your routing number.

Common routing numbers by region

Bank of America uses different routing numbers across the country. The most frequently used routing number is 021000021, which serves accounts in most states including California, Texas, Florida, New York, and many others. The routing number 121000248 serves some western states and specific account types. Bank of America also maintains 011000015 for certain legacy accounts and specific regions.

The list above shows the most frequently used Bank of America routing numbers, but it is not complete. Bank of America has maintained additional routing numbers for historical reasons and for accounts transferred from acquired banks. The only way to be certain you have the correct routing number for your specific account is to check your check, call the bank, or log into your account online.

When you need your routing number

You will need your routing number whenever you set up a transaction that moves money between banks or into your Bank of America account from an outside source. Direct deposit from your employer requires your routing number and account number so your paycheck reaches the correct account. Automatic bill payments, wire transfers, and ACH transfers (electronic transfers between banks) all require your routing number.

Some employers or service providers may ask for your "bank routing number" and "account number" on the same form. Do not confuse the two. Your routing number identifies the bank or branch. Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Both are necessary for the transaction to process correctly.

What happens if you use the wrong routing number

If you provide an incorrect routing number, the transaction may be rejected outright, or it may be sent to a different bank or account. Direct deposits that go to the wrong account are difficult to recover because the receiving bank must initiate the return. Wire transfers sent to the wrong routing number may take several days to bounce back to your account.

If you realize you have used the wrong routing number, contact Bank of America when ready. For direct deposit, notify your employer's payroll department so they can correct the information before the next pay period. For wire transfers or other transactions, call the bank right away to see if the transaction can be stopped or redirected.

Routing numbers for different types of Bank of America accounts

Bank of America uses the same routing numbers for checking and savings accounts in most cases. However, if you have a Bank of America business account, investment account, or account opened through a specific Bank of America subsidiary, your routing number may differ. Business accounts sometimes use different routing numbers than personal accounts, even within the same state.

If you have multiple Bank of America accounts, each account may have the same routing number if they are all personal accounts in the same state. However, if one account is a business account or was opened in a different state, it could have a different routing number. Always verify the routing number for the specific account you are using for the transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the routing number the same for all Bank of America customers?

No. Bank of America routing numbers vary by state and account type. The most common routing number is 021000021, but your account may use a different one depending on where it was opened. Check your check or call the bank to confirm your specific routing number.

Can I use 021000021 for any Bank of America account?

021000021 works for most Bank of America accounts across the country, but it is not universal. Some accounts in specific states or business accounts may use different routing numbers. Always verify your routing number before submitting it for direct deposit or wire transfers.

What is the difference between a routing number and an account number?

Your routing number identifies Bank of America and the specific branch or region where your account is held. Your account number identifies your individual account within the bank. Both are printed on your checks and are required for most electronic transactions.

How long does it take to set up direct deposit with the correct routing number?

Once you provide the correct routing number and account number to your employer, direct deposit typically begins within one to two pay periods. The exact timing depends on your employer's payroll schedule and processing time.

What should I do if a wire transfer was sent to the wrong routing number?

Contact Bank of America when ready at 1-800-432-1000. Provide the wire transfer details, including the amount and date sent. The bank can attempt to recall or redirect the transfer, but success depends on whether the receiving bank has already processed it.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.