Bank of America's New York routing numbers depend on which type of account and transaction you have
Bank of America uses different routing numbers for different kinds of transfers. If you're sending a wire transfer from a Bank of America account in New York, you need the routing number that matches your specific account type and the kind of transfer you're making — not just any Bank of America number.
The most commonly used routing number for Bank of America wire transfers nationwide, including New York, is 021000021. However, this number works only for certain transaction types. Some accounts and transfer methods require a different routing number, so you should confirm which one applies to your situation before you send money.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America's primary wire transfer routing number is 021000021, but it does not work for all account types or transfer methods.
- You can find the correct routing number for your specific account by logging into your Bank of America online account, calling their customer service line, or visiting a branch in person.
- The routing number printed on the bottom left of your checks may not be the same as the wire transfer routing number you need.
- Confirming the routing number directly with Bank of America before sending a wire transfer reduces the risk of sending money to the wrong place.
Where to find your routing number on Bank of America statements and checks
If you have a Bank of America checking or savings account, your routing number appears on the bottom left corner of your paper checks, printed before your account number. However, the routing number on your checks may not be the correct one for wire transfers, depending on your account type and the branch where you opened it.
Your Bank of America statements — both paper and online — may also display routing information, though the format and placement vary. The safest approach is to confirm the routing number directly with Bank of America rather than relying on printed materials, since wire transfer routing numbers are specific to the transaction type.
How to confirm the correct routing number through Bank of America
Log into your Bank of America online account and look for the wire transfer or account details section. Many accounts show routing information in the "Account Details" or "Transfer Information" area. If you cannot find it online, call Bank of America's customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and tell the representative you need the routing number for a wire transfer from your New York account.
You can also visit a Bank of America branch in New York in person and ask a teller to provide the correct routing number for your account type. Bring your account number or a recent statement so the teller can look up the information quickly. This method takes longer but gives you a written confirmation you can keep with your wire transfer records.
Why the routing number on your check may not work for wire transfers
Bank of America assigns routing numbers based on the branch where you opened your account and the type of account you hold. A checking account opened at one branch may have a different routing number than a savings account opened at another branch, even if both are in New York.
Wire transfers route through the Federal Reserve system using specific routing numbers that do not always match the number printed on checks. Using the wrong routing number can delay your transfer or send the money to an unintended account. This is why Bank of America recommends confirming the routing number with them directly before you initiate any wire transfer.
What information you need to provide along with the routing number
When you send a wire transfer, you will need the routing number plus several other pieces of information about the receiving account. Have the recipient's full name, account number, and the name of their bank ready. If the receiving bank is outside the United States, you may also need the bank's SWIFT code or IBAN (International Bank Account Number).
Bank of America will ask you to confirm all of this information before processing the wire. Double-check every detail, because wire transfers are difficult to reverse once they leave your account. If you are unsure about any piece of information, contact the recipient directly to verify it before you submit the transfer.
Common mistakes to avoid when using a routing number for wire transfers
The most common mistake is assuming the routing number on your checks is correct for wire transfers. Another frequent error is transposing digits when writing down or typing the routing number — a single wrong digit sends the money to the wrong bank or account. Copy the routing number directly from Bank of America's official source rather than typing it from memory.
Do not rely on routing numbers you find on third-party websites or in online forums, even if multiple sources list the same number. Bank of America's official channels — their website, your online account, their phone line, or a branch — are the only reliable sources. Taking an extra five minutes to confirm the routing number with Bank of America costs nothing and prevents costly mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number 021000021 correct for all Bank of America accounts in New York?
021000021 is Bank of America's primary wire transfer routing number and works for most accounts, but some account types or older accounts may use a different number. Contact Bank of America directly to confirm the routing number for your specific account before sending a wire transfer.
Can I use the routing number from my checks for a wire transfer?
The routing number on your checks may not be the correct one for wire transfers. Wire transfers use routing numbers assigned by the Federal Reserve system, which can differ from the number printed on checks. Always confirm the wire transfer routing number with Bank of America before sending money.
What happens if I use the wrong routing number?
The wire transfer may be delayed, rejected, or sent to the wrong account. If the money reaches an unintended account, you will need to contact Bank of America and the receiving bank to attempt recovery, which can take weeks. This is why confirming the routing number beforehand is essential.
Do I need a different routing number for transfers within New York versus out of state?
Bank of America uses the same routing number for wire transfers regardless of whether the receiving bank is in New York or elsewhere in the United States. International wire transfers may require additional information like a SWIFT code, but the routing number itself does not change based on location.
How long does a wire transfer take once I provide the correct routing number?
Domestic wire transfers through Bank of America typically arrive within one business day, though some transfers complete the same day if submitted early enough. International transfers take longer, usually three to five business days. The routing number itself does not affect the speed; the receiving bank's processing time matters more.