What an ABA routing number is and why you need it for wire transfers
An ABA routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your specific Bank of America branch. When you send a wire transfer, the receiving bank uses this number to know exactly which of Bank of America's thousands of locations holds your account. Without it, your wire could be delayed or sent to the wrong place.
The ABA routing number is different from your account number. Your account number identifies you personally; the routing number identifies the bank branch where your money sits. You need both pieces of information to complete a wire transfer.
Bank of America has multiple routing numbers depending on which state your account is held in and what type of account you have. This is why you cannot just use one number for every wire — you have to find the one tied to your specific branch.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America routing numbers are nine digits long and vary by state and account type, so you must find the one for your specific branch.
- You can find your routing number by logging into your online banking account, calling Bank of America customer service, or visiting your local branch in person.
- The routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks if you have a checking account with check-writing privileges.
- When you wire money, you will need both the routing number and the recipient's account number to complete the transfer.
How to find your routing number online
Log into your Bank of America online banking account and go to the account details or account information section. The routing number is usually listed there alongside your account number. If you cannot find it in the main account view, look under settings or account services — the exact location varies slightly depending on whether you are using the desktop website or the mobile app.
If you do not see it in your account dashboard, you can use Bank of America's routing number lookup tool on their website. You will need to enter your state and account type (checking, savings, or money market). The tool will show you the correct routing number for your branch.
Finding the routing number on your checks
If you have a Bank of America checking account with check-writing privileges, your routing number is printed on the bottom left of every check. It is the first set of nine numbers you see at the bottom of the check, before your account number.
The format looks like this: the routing number comes first, then your account number, then the check number. If you have checks on hand, this is the fastest way to locate your routing number without logging in or calling anyone.
Calling Bank of America customer service for your routing number
You can call Bank of America's customer service line at 1-800-432-1000 to speak with a representative who can give you your routing number. Have your account number and a form of identification ready when you call, as they may ask you to verify your identity before sharing account details.
Customer service is available during business hours, and wait times vary depending on call volume. If you are in a hurry, checking your checks or logging into online banking is usually faster than waiting on hold.
Visiting your local Bank of America branch
You can walk into any Bank of America branch and ask a teller for your routing number. Bring your debit card or a form of identification so they can look up your account. This option works well if you prefer to handle banking in person or if you have other questions about your account at the same time.
Branch hours vary by location, so check the Bank of America website or call ahead to confirm when your nearest branch is open. Most branches are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours and have limited Saturday hours.
Understanding routing numbers for different account types
Bank of America uses different routing numbers for checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts. The routing number you need depends on which account type you are wiring from. If you have multiple account types at Bank of America, make sure you are using the routing number for the specific account you are sending money from.
State also matters. Bank of America's routing number for a checking account in California is different from the routing number for a checking account in New York. When you look up your routing number, always specify your state so you get the correct one.
What happens if you use the wrong routing number
If you provide an incorrect routing number when sending a wire, the transfer may be rejected outright, or it may be sent to a different bank or branch. In some cases, the receiving bank will catch the error and send the money back to Bank of America, which then returns it to you — but this can take several business days.
If the money goes to the wrong account at another bank, recovery becomes more complicated. The sending bank may be able to contact the receiving bank to trace the transfer, but you may need to file a claim or dispute. This is why double-checking your routing number before you send a wire is worth the extra minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number the same for all Bank of America customers in my state?
No. While customers in the same state often share a routing number, it depends on which branch your account is held at and what type of account you have. Always look up the routing number for your specific account rather than assuming it matches someone else's.
Can I use the same routing number for both incoming and outgoing wire transfers?
Yes. The routing number identifies your Bank of America branch, so it works the same way whether money is coming in or going out. You use it for both directions of wire transfer.
What if I cannot find my routing number anywhere?
Call Bank of America at 1-800-432-1000 or visit a branch in person. A representative can pull up your account and give you the correct routing number in a few minutes. This is faster and more reliable than searching online if you are stuck.
Do I need my routing number to receive a wire transfer?
Yes. The person sending you money will need your routing number and your account number to complete the wire. You should provide both pieces of information to anyone who is wiring you funds.