Your routing number is a nine-digit code that tells other banks where to send money to your account
Bank of America uses different routing numbers depending on which state your account is held in and what type of account you have. The routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks, but if you do not have checks or need to verify the number, there are several direct ways to find it.
The routing number is not secret — banks publish them publicly because other institutions need them to send you money. You will need this number when setting up direct deposit, arranging wire transfers, or authorizing automatic payments from your account.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America routing numbers vary by state, so you need the one for the state where your account is registered, not where you live now.
- The routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks as the first set of nine digits, before your account number.
- You can find your routing number by logging into your Bank of America online account, calling customer service, or visiting a branch in person.
- If you are setting up direct deposit or a wire transfer, the employer or sending bank will tell you which routing number format they need.
Check the bottom left corner of your checks
If you have a checkbook, your routing number is printed on every check. Look at the bottom left of the check — you will see three sets of numbers separated by colons or special symbols. The first nine-digit number is your routing number. The second set is your account number, and the third is the check number itself.
This method works only if your checks are current. If you ordered checks years ago and your account details have changed, the routing number may no longer be accurate. Bank of America sometimes updates routing numbers when accounts are consolidated or moved between processing centers, though this is uncommon.
Log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app
Open the Bank of America website or mobile app and sign in with your username and password. Navigate to the account details or account information section — the exact location varies slightly between the website and app, but it is usually under "Account" or "Settings."
Look for a section labeled "Routing Number," "Account Details," or "Direct Deposit Information." Bank of America displays your routing number alongside your account number in this section. If you cannot find it, use the search function within the app or website and search for "routing number" — the system will take you directly to the right page.
Call Bank of America customer service
Phone customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and have your account number or Social Security number ready. Tell the representative you need your routing number. They will verify your identity and provide the nine-digit code over the phone.
This method is useful if you do not have online access or prefer to speak with someone directly. The call typically takes five to ten minutes. Customer service is available during business hours, though wait times vary depending on the time of day and how busy the line is.
Visit a Bank of America branch in person
Walk into any Bank of America branch with your ID and ask a teller for your routing number. They can print it for you or write it down on the spot. This is the fastest method if you are already near a branch and need the number when ready.
The teller will ask which account you need the routing number for if you have multiple accounts. Bring your ID — the bank will not provide account information without verifying who you are, even though the routing number itself is not confidential.
Understand why routing numbers vary by state
Bank of America operates in multiple states and assigns different routing numbers to different regions. Your routing number depends on which state your account was opened in or is currently registered to, not where you physically live or where you bank most often.
If you moved to a different state after opening your account, your routing number typically does not change unless you formally transferred the account to a new state branch. This can cause confusion when you are setting up direct deposit or payments in your new location. If you are unsure whether your routing number is still correct, ask Bank of America directly — they can confirm whether your account is still tied to your original state or has been updated.
Know the difference between routing number and SWIFT code
A routing number is used for domestic transfers within the United States. If you are receiving money from outside the country or sending money internationally, you will need a different code called a SWIFT code (also called a BIC code). Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N, but international transfers may require additional information like an intermediary bank code.
Do not confuse the two. Domestic employers, bill payment systems, and U.S. banks use the routing number. International wire transfers use the SWIFT code. If someone asks for your routing number and mentions an international transfer, double-check that you are providing the right code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Bank of America accounts in my state have the same routing number?
Most do, but not always. Checking and savings accounts typically share the same routing number, but money market accounts or other specialized accounts may use a different one. If you have multiple account types, verify the routing number for the specific account you are using.
What if I give someone the wrong routing number?
The transfer will usually be rejected or returned to the sender. Banks validate routing numbers before processing, so a nine-digit number that does not match any real bank will cause the transaction to fail. The sender will be notified and can resubmit with the correct number.
Can I use any Bank of America routing number, or does it have to match my account?
It must match your account. Using a different Bank of America routing number — even if it is for another Bank of America account — will send the money to the wrong place. Always use the routing number for the specific account and state where your account is held.
Is my routing number the same as my account number?
No. Your routing number identifies the bank and the state where your account is held. Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Both appear on your checks, but they are separate codes used for different purposes.
Do I need to keep my routing number private?
No. Your routing number is public information — it is printed on your checks and published by the bank. You can share it freely. However, do not share your full account number or the combination of routing number and account number with people you do not trust, as that pair can be used to set up unauthorized transfers.