Bank of America's routing number for New York is 021000021
Bank of America uses the same routing number 021000021 for all wire transfers sent from New York, regardless of which branch you use within the state. This nine-digit number tells the Federal Reserve and other banks where to send your money. You need it when you're sending a wire transfer out of a Bank of America account in New York, or when someone outside the bank is sending you money and needs to know where your account lives.
The routing number is different from your account number. Your account number identifies your specific account; the routing number identifies Bank of America's processing center for that transaction type. Both appear on the bottom left of your checks, but only the routing number changes based on transaction type and location.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America's routing number for New York wire transfers is 021000021, and it applies to all New York branches.
- The routing number appears on the bottom left of your checks, but you can also find it through your online banking account or by calling Bank of America directly.
- Wire transfers use a different routing number than ACH transfers or checks, so confirm you have the wire transfer number before sending money.
- When someone sends you a wire transfer, give them 021000021 along with your account number and the bank's address in New York.
Where to find the routing number if you don't have a check
If you don't have a check in front of you, you can find the routing number through your Bank of America online account. Log in, go to your account details or account information section, and look for the routing number listed there. Most banks display it alongside your account number.
You can also call Bank of America's customer service line at 1-800-432-1000 and ask for the wire transfer routing number for New York. Have your account number ready when you call. The representative will confirm 021000021 and can answer questions about whether you need any additional information to send or receive a wire.
Why wire transfers use a specific routing number
Wire transfers move through a different system than checks or ACH transfers (the electronic transfers that take one to three business days). The Federal Reserve processes wires through its own network, and each bank has a designated routing number for wire traffic. Using the wrong routing number can delay your transfer or send it to the wrong place entirely.
Bank of America maintains separate routing numbers for different transaction types and regions. The number 021000021 is specifically for wire transfers in New York. If you're sending an ACH transfer or a check, you would use a different routing number, so always confirm which type of transfer you're making before you look up the number.
What information you need to send a wire transfer
To send a wire transfer from your Bank of America account in New York, you'll need the recipient's bank name, routing number, account number, and full name. You'll also need to know the amount and the reason for the transfer (though the reason is optional for most personal transfers).
If the recipient's bank is outside the United States, you may also need a SWIFT code, which is an international identifier similar to a routing number. Bank of America can tell you whether you need it when you start the wire transfer process through your online account or by visiting a branch.
How to send a wire transfer through Bank of America
You can send a wire transfer through Bank of America's online banking platform, by phone, or in person at a branch. Online is usually the fastest option. Log into your account, select "Transfer Money," choose "Wire Transfer," and enter the recipient's information along with the amount.
Wire transfers typically process the same business day if you send them before the bank's cutoff time, which is usually 2 p.m. Eastern Time on weekdays. Transfers sent after that time or on weekends process the next business day. Bank of America charges a fee for outgoing wire transfers; the amount varies depending on whether the transfer is domestic or international, so check your account or ask a representative before you send.
When you receive a wire transfer to your New York account
When someone sends you money via wire transfer to your Bank of America account in New York, give them the routing number 021000021, your full account number, and Bank of America's mailing address (which you can find on your statement or by logging into your online account). Some people also ask for the bank's phone number, though it's not required for the wire to arrive.
Incoming wire transfers usually arrive within one to two business days, though same-day arrival is possible depending on when the sender's bank processes the transfer. Bank of America does not charge a fee to receive a wire transfer. The money will appear in your account as a deposit, and you can use it when ready in most cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the routing number different for each Bank of America branch in New York?
No. All Bank of America branches in New York use the same routing number for wire transfers: 021000021. The routing number is tied to the bank and the transaction type, not to the individual branch location.
What's the difference between a routing number and a SWIFT code?
A routing number is used for domestic wire transfers within the United States. A SWIFT code is used for international wire transfers. If you're sending money to a bank outside the U.S., you'll need the recipient's SWIFT code instead of their routing number.
Can I use the routing number from my checks for a wire transfer?
Check the routing number on your checks first. If it shows 021000021, then yes, it's the correct wire transfer routing number. However, some checks may display a different routing number, so always confirm before sending a wire transfer.
What happens if I use the wrong routing number?
If you use an incorrect routing number, the wire transfer may be delayed, rejected, or sent to the wrong bank. Contact Bank of America when ready if you realize you've made a mistake. The bank may be able to recall the transfer or redirect it, but this depends on how far the transfer has progressed through the system.
Do I need anything else besides the routing number to receive a wire transfer?
Yes. The sender will need your full name, account number, and the routing number. Some senders also ask for the bank's address and phone number, though these aren't required for the wire to process correctly.