Your ABA routing number is a nine-digit code that tells other banks and payment systems where to send money to your Bank of America account.
Bank of America's routing number is 026009593 for most accounts held at their main U.S. branches. This number is used when you set up direct deposit from an employer, arrange automatic bill payments, or receive a wire transfer from another bank. The routing number itself does not identify your specific account — it only identifies Bank of America as the destination bank. Your actual account number, which you provide separately, is what directs the money to your specific account once it arrives at Bank of America.
The term ABA routing number comes from the American Bankers Association, which created the system in 1910. Every bank in the United States has its own routing number. Bank of America is large enough that it operates multiple routing numbers depending on which state your branch is in or what type of transaction is happening, though 026009593 covers the majority of accounts.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America's primary routing number is 026009593, used for direct deposits, bill payments, and wire transfers to most accounts.
- The routing number identifies the bank itself, not your individual account — you must provide both the routing number and your account number together.
- Some Bank of America branches in specific states have different routing numbers, so you should confirm the correct one before sending money.
- You can find your routing number on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal, or by calling Bank of America directly.
When you actually need to provide your routing number
You need your routing number whenever someone outside Bank of America needs to send money into your account. The most common situations are setting up direct deposit for your paycheck, arranging automatic payments to creditors or utilities, or receiving a wire transfer from another person or organization.
You do not need your routing number when you are sending money out of your Bank of America account — for example, when you write a check, use your debit card, or transfer money between your own Bank of America accounts. You also do not need it for transactions within Bank of America itself, like moving money between two of your own accounts at the same bank.
How to find your Bank of America routing number
The easiest place to find it is on a check from your checking account. Look at the bottom left corner of the check. You will see three groups of numbers separated by vertical lines. The first group of nine digits is your routing number. The second group is your account number. The third group is your check number.
If you do not have checks or prefer not to look at them, you can find your routing number in your Bank of America online banking account. Log in, go to your account details or account information section, and look for "routing number" or "ABA number." You can also call Bank of America's customer service line and provide your account information — they will tell you the routing number for your specific account.
Why Bank of America has more than one routing number
Bank of America operates different routing numbers for different purposes and locations. Some routing numbers are tied to specific states where the bank has branches. Others are used for different types of transactions, like wire transfers versus ACH transfers (the system used for direct deposits and bill payments).
The number 026009593 is the most widely used and works for the vast majority of Bank of America customers for standard transactions. However, if you are setting up a wire transfer or if your branch is in a state with a separate routing number, you may need a different one. This is why it is always worth confirming with Bank of America or checking your account details before you provide the number to someone else.
What happens if you use the wrong routing number
If you provide an incorrect routing number, the money will be sent to the wrong bank. The sending bank will eventually realize the error and either return the money to the sender or try to correct it, but this process can take several days or even weeks. During that time, you will not have access to the funds, and the person who sent the money may think you never received it.
Using the correct routing number the first time prevents this delay. If you are unsure, it is always better to double-check with Bank of America before giving your routing number to an employer, creditor, or anyone else sending you money.
Routing numbers versus account numbers versus SWIFT codes
A routing number identifies the bank. An account number identifies your specific account within that bank. You need both pieces of information together for money to reach your account. Think of it like an address: the routing number is the city, and the account number is your house number on a specific street.
A SWIFT code is different — it is used for international wire transfers. Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N. You would use this if someone outside the United States is sending you money. For domestic transfers within the U.S., you only need the routing number and account number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bank of America's routing number the same for everyone?
The primary routing number 026009593 is the same for most Bank of America customers. However, some branches in specific states or certain types of accounts may have different routing numbers. Always check your own account details or a check to be sure you have the right one for your situation.
Can I use the same routing number for wire transfers and direct deposits?
In most cases, yes — 026009593 works for both. However, some banks use different routing numbers for different transaction types. Before you set up either service, confirm with Bank of America that the routing number you have is correct for that specific type of transaction.
What if I set up direct deposit with the wrong routing number?
Your paycheck will be sent to the wrong bank and will eventually be returned. Contact your employer's payroll department right away and provide the correct routing number and account number. They can update your direct deposit information, though it may take one or two pay periods for the change to take effect.
Do I need my routing number to receive money through Zelle or other payment apps?
No. Apps like Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal use your email address or phone number, not your routing number. You only need your routing number for traditional bank-to-bank transfers, direct deposits, and wire transfers.
Is it safe to share my routing number?
Yes. Your routing number is public information — it appears on every check you write and is not sensitive on its own. However, never share your full account number with anyone you do not trust completely, and never share your PIN or online banking password. A routing number alone cannot be used to withdraw money from your account.