Bank of America routing numbers in California depend on which branch you use
Bank of America has multiple routing numbers across California because the bank operates different processing centers. The routing number you need depends on where your account was opened and which service you're using — not where you live now. For most California accounts opened at a physical branch, the routing number is 121000248. However, some accounts use 026009593, and accounts opened online or through certain programs may use different numbers.
The safest way to find your specific routing number is to check your checks or log into your Bank of America account online. Your routing number appears on the bottom left of every check you receive. If you don't have checks or can't access your account, you can call Bank of America's customer service line or visit a local California branch with your account information.
Key Takeaways
- The most common Bank of America routing number for California accounts is 121000248, but your account may use a different one depending on where it was opened.
- Your routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks — the first set of numbers before the 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.
- Using the wrong routing number will cause a wire transfer to fail or be delayed, so verify your number before sending money.
Where to find your routing number on a check
Every check from Bank of America displays your routing number in a specific location. Look at the bottom left corner of the check — you'll see nine digits printed there. These nine digits are your routing number. The next set of numbers (usually longer) is your account number. The routing number stays the same for all checks from your account, even if you order new checkbooks.
If you've never received checks or your checks are old, the routing number may have changed if your account was transferred between Bank of America processing centers. In that case, your online account or a phone call to customer service will give you the current number.
How to check your routing number online
Log into your Bank of America account at bankofamerica.com using your username and password. Once you're logged in, go to the account details or account information section — this is usually found under "Account Services" or "Settings." Your routing number should appear there alongside your account number and other account details.
If you can't find it in your account details, Bank of America also provides a routing number lookup tool on their website. You can search by state and account type to confirm which number belongs to your account. This is especially useful if you have multiple accounts or are unsure which routing number to use for a wire transfer.
The two most common Bank of America routing numbers for California
Bank of America uses 121000248 for most consumer checking and savings accounts opened at California branches. This is the routing number you'll see on most personal checks. The second common number, 026009593, is used for some accounts, particularly those opened online or through certain product lines.
Neither number is "better" — they both route money to Bank of America's processing system correctly. The difference is straightforward which processing center handles your account. If you send a wire transfer using the wrong routing number, the transfer will either fail or be delayed while the bank corrects it. Always verify your specific routing number before initiating a wire.
What happens if you use the wrong routing number
If you provide an incorrect routing number for a wire transfer, the receiving bank may reject the transfer outright. The money will be returned to your account, but this can take several business days. In some cases, the transfer may be delayed while the receiving bank tries to match the account number to the correct routing number, which can take a week or longer.
To avoid this problem, double-check your routing number against your checks or your online account before you wire money. If you're sending money to someone else's Bank of America account in California, ask them to confirm their routing number rather than assuming it's the same as yours.
Calling Bank of America customer service for your routing number
You can reach Bank of America customer service by calling the number on the back of your debit card or by dialing 1-800-432-1000. Have your account number or Social Security number ready. A representative can confirm your routing number in less than a minute and can also tell you if your account uses a non-standard routing number.
Customer service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you're calling from outside the United States, Bank of America has international phone numbers listed on their website. This is the fastest way to get your routing number if you don't have checks or online access.
Visiting a Bank of America branch in California
Any Bank of America branch in California can provide your routing number. Bring a form of identification and your account number (or the phone number associated with your account). A teller can print your routing number for you or write it down on a piece of paper. This takes just a few minutes and requires no appointment.
If you're opening a new account or changing your account type, ask the representative which routing number applies to your new account. Some business accounts or specialty products use different routing numbers than standard personal accounts, so it's worth confirming at the time of the change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all Bank of America accounts in California use the same routing number?
No. Most personal checking and savings accounts use 121000248, but some accounts use 026009593 or other numbers depending on when and where the account was opened. Always check your specific account rather than assuming.
Can I use 121000248 for any Bank of America wire transfer in California?
Not necessarily. You must use the routing number assigned to your specific account, not a general Bank of America number. Using the wrong routing number will cause the transfer to fail or be delayed. Check your checks or online account to confirm.
What if my check shows a different routing number than what Bank of America's website says?
Your check is the most reliable source. If the number on your check differs from what you see online, call Bank of America to confirm which number is current. Your account may have been transferred to a new processing center, which changes the routing number.
Do I need a different routing number if I'm sending money to someone else's Bank of America account?
No. You use your own routing number to send money out of your account. The receiving person's routing number is only needed if they're sending money to you. Always ask the recipient to provide their routing number rather than guessing.
Is the routing number the same for wire transfers and ACH transfers?
Yes. Bank of America uses the same routing number for wire transfers, ACH transfers, and direct deposits. Your routing number doesn't change based on the type of transfer you're making.