What Bank of America's SWIFT and IBAN codes do
A SWIFT code is an eight- or eleven-character identifier that tells the global banking system which Bank of America branch will receive your wire transfer. A IBAN (International Bank Account Number) is a longer code — up to 34 characters — that identifies your specific account for international transfers. Bank of America uses SWIFT codes for all international wires. IBANs are required by banks in Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa, but Bank of America does not issue IBANs to U.S. account holders because the U.S. banking system does not use them.
If you are sending money from a Bank of America account to someone outside the United States, you will need the recipient's SWIFT code and account number. If you are receiving money from abroad into your Bank of America account, you will provide your own SWIFT code to the sender. The SWIFT code ensures the wire reaches the right bank; the account number ensures it reaches the right person within that bank.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America's SWIFT code for U.S. domestic accounts is BOFAUS3N, though some branches have their own eight-character codes ending in a specific location code.
- Bank of America does not issue IBANs to customers with U.S. accounts because the United States does not use the IBAN system.
- You can find your bank's SWIFT code on your statement, through the Bank of America website, or by calling customer service at the number on your card.
- When sending an international wire from Bank of America, you will need the recipient's SWIFT code, account number, and full name and address.
- SWIFT codes are different from routing numbers; routing numbers are used only for domestic U.S. transfers, while SWIFT codes are for international wires.
Bank of America's main SWIFT code
Bank of America's primary SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N. This code works for most international wire transfers to or from Bank of America accounts in the United States. The code breaks down as follows: BOFA identifies Bank of America, US indicates the United States, and 3N is the branch code for the main processing center.
Some Bank of America branches have their own SWIFT codes. These are eight-character codes that follow the pattern BOFAUS3N plus a two-letter location code. For example, a branch in New York might have a different code than one in California. If you are sending a wire to a specific branch location, that branch's individual SWIFT code may route the transfer faster, though BOFAUS3N will work for any U.S. Bank of America account.
How to find your Bank of America SWIFT code
The easiest way to find Bank of America's SWIFT code is to log into your online banking account. Go to the wire transfer or international transfer section, and the SWIFT code will be listed there. You can also find it on your monthly statement under the bank's contact information.
If you do not have online access or cannot find it on your statement, call the customer service number on the back of your debit or credit card. A representative can confirm the correct SWIFT code for your account type and location. You can also visit a Bank of America branch in person and ask a teller for the code.
Bank of America's website also lists SWIFT codes by region. Search "Bank of America SWIFT code" on their site, and you will find a page with codes for different account types and locations.
Why Bank of America accounts do not have IBANs
The IBAN system was created in Europe and is now standard in the European Union, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, and parts of Africa. The United States has its own system for identifying bank accounts: the routing number and account number combination. Because U.S. banks do not participate in the IBAN system, Bank of America does not issue IBANs to customers with U.S. addresses or U.S. dollar accounts.
If you have a Bank of America account in a country outside the United States — for example, in the United Kingdom or Germany — that account may have an IBAN. But for a standard U.S. Bank of America checking or savings account, you will use your routing number and account number for domestic transfers and your SWIFT code for international ones.
SWIFT codes versus routing numbers
A routing number is a nine-digit code used only for transfers within the United States. Bank of America's routing number varies by state and account type, but a common one is 026009593. You use the routing number when you set up direct deposit, send a domestic wire, or arrange an automatic payment to another U.S. bank.
A SWIFT code is used for international transfers and is recognized by banks worldwide. While a routing number tells a U.S. bank where to send money within the country, a SWIFT code tells a foreign bank where to send money to the United States. You cannot use a routing number for an international wire, and you do not need a SWIFT code for a domestic one.
When you send an international wire from Bank of America, you will provide the recipient's SWIFT code, not their routing number. When you receive an international wire, you will give the sender your SWIFT code.
What information you need to send an international wire from Bank of America
To send a wire transfer from Bank of America to someone outside the United States, gather the following information before you start:
- The recipient's full name and address
- The recipient's bank name and address
- The recipient's SWIFT code
- The recipient's account number (or IBAN if they are in Europe or the Middle East)
- The amount you want to send and the currency
- A reference or description for the transfer (optional but helpful)
You can initiate the wire through Bank of America's online banking platform, by phone, or in person at a branch. Online transfers are usually the fastest and cheapest option. Bank of America charges a fee for outgoing international wires; the amount depends on the destination country and whether you use online banking or visit a branch.
What information to provide if you are receiving an international wire
If someone outside the United States wants to send you money, provide them with the following:
- Your full name exactly as it appears on your Bank of America account
- Your Bank of America account number
- Bank of America's SWIFT code: BOFAUS3N
- Your Bank of America branch address (optional but can speed up processing)
- Your address
Do not provide your routing number for an international wire. The sender's bank will use your SWIFT code to route the transfer to Bank of America, and your account number to deposit it into your account. The wire usually arrives within one to three business days, depending on the sender's bank and any intermediate banks involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use BOFAUS3N for any Bank of America account?
Yes, BOFAUS3N works for all U.S. Bank of America accounts — checking, savings, money market, and others. Some branches have their own eight-character codes, but the main code will work for any account.
Do I need an IBAN if I have a Bank of America account in the U.S.?
No. U.S. Bank of America accounts do not have IBANs. Use your SWIFT code for international wires and your routing number for domestic ones. If you have a Bank of America account outside the U.S., that account may have an IBAN.
What is the difference between a SWIFT code and a BIC code?
SWIFT code and BIC (Bank Identifier Code) are the same thing. BIC is an older term; SWIFT code is the current standard. Bank of America's BIC is BOFAUS3N.
How long does an international wire take with Bank of America?
Most international wires arrive within one to three business days. The time depends on the destination country, whether intermediate banks are involved, and the time of day you send it. Wires sent after business hours may not process until the next day.
What if I send a wire to the wrong SWIFT code?
If you send a wire to an incorrect SWIFT code, it may be rejected by the receiving bank or routed to the wrong institution. Contact Bank of America when ready if this happens. They can sometimes recall the wire, but the process takes time and is not always successful. Always double-check the SWIFT code before sending.