BOA Swift codes are eight or eleven-character codes that identify Bank of America branches for wire transfers outside the United States

A Swift code (also called a BIC code) is a standardized identifier that tells the international banking system which specific bank and branch should receive your money. Bank of America's main Swift code is BOFAUS3N, which routes transfers to their New York processing center. If you are sending money to or from a specific BOA branch, you may need a different code — BOA has multiple Swift codes depending on which state and which type of account the money is going to.

The code itself breaks down into parts: the first four letters identify the bank (BOFA for Bank of America), the next two are the country code (US), the next two are the location code, and the last three characters (when included) identify the specific branch. When you send an international wire, your bank uses this code to route the payment through the SWIFT network, which is the global system that connects thousands of banks worldwide.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's primary Swift code for most international wires is BOFAUS3N, which directs transfers to their main processing center in New York.
  • Different BOA branches and account types may have different Swift codes, so you should confirm the correct code with your recipient or BOA directly before sending money.
  • The Swift code is required information for international wire transfers but is not needed for domestic wires within the United States.
  • You can find the correct Swift code by calling BOA customer service, visiting their website, or asking the person or business receiving the transfer which code they use.

When you need a BOA Swift code

You need a Swift code only when sending money internationally — that is, when the receiving bank is outside the United States. If you are wiring money to another U.S. bank, you use a routing number instead, which is a nine-digit code specific to domestic transfers.

When you initiate an international wire through BOA, the bank will ask you for the recipient's Swift code. This tells the SWIFT network which foreign bank and branch should receive the funds. Without the correct code, the transfer may be delayed, sent to the wrong branch, or rejected entirely.

BOA's main Swift code and when to use alternatives

BOFAUS3N is the Swift code you should use for most international wire transfers to Bank of America accounts in the United States. This code directs the transfer to BOA's main processing center in New York, and from there the money is routed to the correct account.

Some BOA branches and business accounts have their own Swift codes. If you are sending money to a specific BOA branch location or a specialized account type (such as a trust account or a business lockbox), the recipient may provide you with a different code. Always use the code the recipient gives you, because they know which account the money should go into. If you are unsure, contact BOA directly at 1-800-841-4000 or visit their website to confirm.

How to find the correct Swift code for your transfer

The easiest way to find the right Swift code is to ask the person or business you are sending money to. They should know which code their bank uses, and providing it prevents delays and errors.

You can also call Bank of America's customer service line at 1-800-841-4000 and tell them the branch location or account type. A representative can confirm the correct code for your specific transfer. BOA's website also has a Swift code lookup tool where you can search by branch location.

If you are receiving a wire and need to give someone your BOA Swift code, provide BOFAUS3N unless your bank has told you otherwise. Some business accounts or international divisions of BOA may have different codes, so check any documentation your account came with or call customer service to be certain.

What happens if you use the wrong Swift code

If you enter an incorrect Swift code, the transfer may still go through, but it could be delayed by several days while the banking system tries to route it correctly. In some cases, the receiving bank may reject the transfer and send it back to you, which can take another week or more.

The sending bank may also charge a fee for a rejected or misdirected transfer. To avoid this, double-check the Swift code before you confirm the wire. Most banks show you the code and the receiving bank name on the confirmation screen — verify that both match what your recipient told you.

Swift codes versus other banking identifiers

A Swift code is different from a routing number, an account number, and an IBAN (International Bank Account Number). A routing number is a nine-digit code used only for domestic U.S. transfers. An account number is unique to your individual account and is required for any transfer, domestic or international. An IBAN is a longer code (up to 34 characters) used in Europe and some other regions to identify both the bank and the account; not all countries use IBANs.

For an international wire to a BOA account in the United States, you typically need the Swift code (BOFAUS3N), the recipient's account number, and the recipient's name. Some countries also require an IBAN or additional information. Your bank will tell you what information is required when you start the transfer.

How long an international wire takes with the correct Swift code

When you provide the correct Swift code, an international wire to or from Bank of America usually takes one to three business days. The exact timing depends on the receiving country, the time of day you send the wire, and whether the receiving bank processes transfers on weekends.

Wires sent after business hours or on weekends may not begin processing until the next business day. Some countries have their own banking holidays that can add an extra day. BOA will give you an expected delivery date when you confirm the transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BOFAUS3N the Swift code for all Bank of America accounts?

BOFAUS3N is the primary code for most BOA accounts and is the one to use unless you have been told otherwise. Some specialized accounts, business divisions, or specific branches may have different codes. If you are unsure, ask the recipient which code they use or contact BOA directly.

Do I need a Swift code to send money between my own BOA accounts?

No. If you are transferring money between two of your own BOA accounts, you do not need a Swift code. You can move money between your accounts using BOA's online banking or by calling customer service. Swift codes are only for transfers to accounts at other banks, particularly outside the United States.

What if the country I am sending money to does not use Swift codes?

Most countries use the SWIFT system for international transfers. However, some regions may require additional or alternative codes, such as an IBAN or a local bank identifier. Your bank will tell you what information is needed when you initiate the transfer. If the receiving country does not use SWIFT, your bank can advise you on the correct routing method.

Can I look up a Swift code online if I do not know it?

Yes. Several websites allow you to search for Swift codes by bank name and country. However, the most reliable source is to ask the recipient directly or contact the receiving bank. This ensures you have the correct code for the specific branch or account type.

Do I pay a fee for using a Swift code?

The Swift code itself is free to use — it is just an identifier. However, Bank of America and other banks charge fees for sending international wires, which typically range from $15 to $50 depending on the amount and the destination country. Ask BOA about their wire fees before you send the transfer.