What routing number you need depends on where you bank and what you're doing
Bank of America has different routing numbers for different states and account types. The routing number tells the banking system which branch or processing center handles your account. If you're setting up a direct deposit, paying a bill by check, or sending money via ACH transfer, you need the right routing number or the transaction will fail or be delayed.
The most commonly used routing number for Bank of America checking and savings accounts is 026009593, which covers most states. However, some states have their own routing numbers, and certain account types (like trust accounts or money market accounts) may use different numbers. The wrong routing number won't send your money to the wrong account—it will simply bounce back or sit in limbo while the bank figures out where it belongs.
Key Takeaways
- The routing number 026009593 works for most Bank of America checking and savings accounts across the United States.
- Some states including California, Texas, New York, and Florida have their own Bank of America routing numbers, which you should use if you live in those states.
- You can find your specific routing number by logging into your Bank of America account online, calling customer service, or checking the bottom left corner of your checks.
- Using the wrong routing number will not send money to the wrong person—it will cause the transaction to fail or delay until the bank corrects it.
How to find your Bank of America routing number
The fastest way is to check a check you've already written. Look at the bottom left corner of the check. The first nine-digit number is your routing number. If you don't have checks, log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app, go to account details, and the routing number will be listed there.
You can also call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-432-1000 and ask for your routing number. Have your account number ready. If you're setting up direct deposit through an employer, your HR department may also have the routing number on file or can look it up for you.
Routing numbers by state
Most Bank of America customers use 026009593 regardless of where they live. However, if you have an account in one of these states, check whether your bank statement or account details show a different number:
| State | Routing Number |
|---|---|
| California | 121000248 |
| Texas | 111000025 |
| New York | 021200025 |
| Florida | 066000052 |
| Illinois | 071000013 |
| Most other states | 026009593 |
The state routing number applies to accounts opened in that state. If you moved and kept your original account, you may still use the routing number from the state where you opened it. When in doubt, use the number from your checks or your online account—that's always the correct one for your specific account.
When you need the routing number and when you don't
You need your routing number when you're setting up direct deposit (paycheck, tax refund, benefits), paying bills through your bank's bill pay system, or receiving an ACH transfer from another person or organization. You also need it if someone is sending you money via a service like Venmo or PayPal and you want it to go directly to your bank account rather than staying in the app.
You do not need your routing number for wire transfers, debit card purchases, ATM withdrawals, or transfers between your own Bank of America accounts. You also don't need it to send money to someone else's account using your bank's app or website—the bank already knows its own routing number.
What happens if you use the wrong routing number
The transaction will not go through immediately. Instead, the receiving bank will try to match the routing number to an account and, when it can't, will send the money back to the originating bank. This process typically takes three to five business days. During that time, the money is in limbo—not in your account and not in the sender's account.
Once the money is returned, it goes back to whoever sent it (your employer, the government, a friend). They will then need to resubmit the payment with the correct routing number. If you made a mistake on a direct deposit setup, contact your employer's HR or payroll department as soon as you realize it and ask them to update your banking information. The sooner you correct it, the sooner your next paycheck will arrive on time.
Routing numbers for Bank of America business accounts
Business checking and savings accounts typically use the same routing numbers as personal accounts—026009593 for most states, or the state-specific number if applicable. However, some business account types, such as trust accounts or accounts set up for nonprofits, may have different routing numbers.
If you have a business account and are unsure which routing number to use, check your business checks or log into your business online banking portal. You can also call Bank of America business customer service at 1-800-933-6262. Having the correct routing number is especially important for business accounts because payroll, vendor payments, and loan deposits often depend on it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 026009593 for any Bank of America account?
Yes, for most accounts. If you live in California, Texas, New York, Florida, or Illinois, check your account details or a recent check first—your account may use a state-specific routing number. When in doubt, use the number from your checks or online account, which is always correct for your specific account.
What's the difference between a routing number and an account number?
The routing number identifies your bank or branch (026009593 = Bank of America). Your account number identifies your specific account within that bank. Both are needed for direct deposits and ACH transfers. Your account number is usually longer and appears after the routing number at the bottom of your checks.
Do I need a different routing number if I moved to another state?
Not necessarily. If you kept the same Bank of America account, you use the same routing number. The routing number is tied to your account, not your current address. If you opened a new account in a different state, that account may have a different routing number—check your new checks or account details.
What if a direct deposit bounced because of the wrong routing number?
Contact the sender (your employer, the government, etc.) and provide the correct routing number. They will resubmit the payment. The original payment will be returned to them within three to five business days. Ask them to prioritize the resubmission so you don't miss a paycheck cycle.
Is the routing number the same for wire transfers?
No. Wire transfers use a different code called a SWIFT code (for international wires) or a different routing number format. For domestic wire transfers to Bank of America, ask your bank which number to use—do not assume the ACH routing number will work for a wire.