What a routing number is and why you need it
A routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies which Bank of America location or processing center handles your account. Banks use it to direct money to the right place when you receive a wire transfer, set up direct deposit, or pay a bill electronically. Without the correct routing number, a transfer can go to the wrong account or be delayed.
The routing number is not the same as your account number. Your account number identifies your specific account; the routing number identifies the bank branch or processing center. You may need both pieces of information depending on what you are doing.
Bank of America has multiple routing numbers because different regions and account types use different processing centers. The routing number that works for your account depends on where you live and what type of account you have.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America routing numbers are nine digits and vary by state and account type, so you must find the one for your specific situation.
- You can find your routing number on the bottom left of your checks, in your online banking portal under account details, or by calling Bank of America customer service.
- The most common routing number for Bank of America is 021000021, but this does not work for all accounts or all states.
- Wire transfers, direct deposit setup, and bill payments all require the correct routing number for your account type and location.
Where to find your routing number on a check
The easiest way to find 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 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, and the third group is the check number itself. If you do not have checks or cannot read them clearly, this method will not work, but it is the fastest option if you have a checkbook available.
Finding your routing number online or by phone
Log into your Bank of America online banking account and go to the account details or account information section. Most accounts display the routing number alongside the account number. The exact location varies depending on whether you use the standard website or the mobile app, but it is usually under "Account Details" or "Account Summary."
If you cannot find it online, call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000. Have your account number ready. A representative can tell you the routing number for your specific account type and location within a few minutes. This is the most reliable method if you are unsure which routing number applies to you.
Common Bank of America routing numbers by state
| State or Region | Routing Number |
|---|---|
| California | 121000248 |
| Texas | 111000025 |
| Florida | 061000052 |
| New York | 021000021 |
| Illinois | 071000013 |
| Most other states | 021000021 |
The routing number 021000021 is the most widely used for Bank of America accounts, but it does not work for all states or all account types. If you live in California, Texas, Florida, or Illinois, your routing number is likely different. Always confirm with your bank or check your account details before using a routing number for a wire transfer or direct deposit, because using the wrong one can cause delays or failed transactions.
When you need the routing number and when you do not
You need your routing number when you set up direct deposit for payroll or government benefits, send or receive a wire transfer, or set up automatic bill payments through your bank. You also need it if someone outside your bank is sending you money electronically and asks for your banking details.
You do not need the routing number for everyday debit card purchases, ATM withdrawals, or transfers between your own Bank of America accounts. You also do not need it to send money to someone using a payment app like Zelle or Venmo, though some apps may ask for it during setup.
What to do if you use the wrong routing number
If you accidentally use the wrong routing number, the transaction may be rejected outright, or it may be delayed while the bank tries to figure out where it should go. If money is sent to the wrong routing number, it typically goes to a different bank or processing center, not to your account.
Contact Bank of America when ready if you realize you have used the wrong routing number. For direct deposit or bill payments, you can usually update the information before the next scheduled transfer. For wire transfers that have already been sent, the receiving bank may be able to reverse or redirect the transfer, but this is not may provide and can take several business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number the same for all Bank of America accounts?
No. Bank of America uses different routing numbers for different states and account types. Your routing number depends on where you live and whether you have a checking account, savings account, or money market account. Always confirm the correct routing number for your specific situation before sending money.
Can I use 021000021 for any Bank of America account?
021000021 works for many Bank of America accounts, especially in the Northeast and for general checking accounts, but it does not work for all states or all account types. If you live in California, Texas, Florida, or Illinois, you likely need a different routing number. Check your account details or call customer service to be sure.
What happens if I give someone the wrong routing number?
The transfer may fail and be returned to the sender, or it may be delayed while the bank investigates. If money reaches the wrong bank, the receiving bank can sometimes reverse or redirect it, but this is not may provide. Contact Bank of America right away if you suspect a mistake.
Do I need the routing number to transfer money between my own Bank of America accounts?
No. Transfers between your own accounts at Bank of America do not require a routing number. You only need the account number of the account you are transferring to. Routing numbers are for transfers between different banks or for payments from outside sources.