Bank of America's SWIFT Code and How to Use It for International Transfers

What Bank of America's SWIFT Code Is

Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N. This eight-character code identifies Bank of America specifically when you send money internationally. SWIFT stands for Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication — it is the messaging system banks use to move money across borders.

When you wire money from your Bank of America account to someone outside the United States, or when someone sends you money from abroad, the receiving or sending bank uses this code to route the transfer correctly. Think of it like a postal address for your bank in the global financial system.

The code breaks down this way: BOFA identifies Bank of America, US confirms the country, and 3N pinpoints the main processing center. You will not need to memorize it — you can find it on Bank of America's website, in your account statements, or by calling customer service.

Key Takeaways

• Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N, used for all international wire transfers from most Bank of America accounts.
• You will need this code when sending money internationally, along with the recipient's name, account number, and their bank's SWIFT code.
• Different Bank of America branches or business accounts may have different codes, so confirm with your bank before sending a large transfer.
• The SWIFT code alone is not enough — you also need the recipient's full banking details to complete an international wire.

When You Need Bank of America's SWIFT Code

You need this code when you are sending money from your Bank of America account to someone with a bank account outside the United States. The foreign bank uses it to identify Bank of America as the originating institution and route your money correctly through the international banking network.

You also need it if you are receiving money from abroad. The sender's bank will ask for Bank of America's SWIFT code so they know where to send the funds. Without it, the transfer may be delayed or rejected.

Domestic transfers within the United States do not use SWIFT codes. Instead, they use routing numbers, which are different. If you are sending money to another U.S. bank account, you will use a nine-digit routing number, not a SWIFT code.

How to Find Your Bank of America SWIFT Code

The easiest way is to log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app. Go to your account details or settings — many banks display the SWIFT code there alongside other account information.

You can also call Bank of America customer service at the number on the back of your debit or credit card. A representative can confirm the SWIFT code for your specific account type in seconds.

Bank of America's website also lists the SWIFT code publicly. Search "Bank of America SWIFT code" and you will find it on their official pages. If you are unsure whether the code applies to your account type — for instance, if you have a business account or a specialized product — ask your bank directly rather than guessing.

What Information You Need Alongside the SWIFT Code

The SWIFT code alone will not complete a wire transfer. You will also need the recipient's full name exactly as it appears on their bank account, their account number, and their bank's SWIFT code or routing number (depending on the country).

Many countries also require an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) instead of or in addition to the account number. An IBAN is a longer code that includes the country, bank, and account information in one string. Ask the recipient for their IBAN if they are in Europe, the Middle East, or parts of Africa — it is the standard there.

You may also need the recipient's bank name and address. Some banks ask for all of this; others ask for less. Before you initiate a transfer, Bank of America will show you exactly what information is required.

Fees and Timing for International Wires

Bank of America charges a fee for outgoing international wire transfers. The amount varies depending on whether the transfer goes to a Bank of America account abroad or to another bank. Check your account terms or call customer service for the current fee, as it changes periodically.

International wires typically take one to three business days to arrive, though this depends on the receiving bank's processing speed and whether the transfer requires additional verification. Some countries have slower banking systems, which can add days.

If you are sending money to a Bank of America account in another country, the transfer may be faster because it stays within the Bank of America network. Transfers to unaffiliated banks abroad often take longer because the money passes through one or more intermediary banks.

What to Do If Your Transfer Is Delayed or Rejected

If a wire does not arrive within the timeframe Bank of America quoted, contact them when ready. Provide the confirmation number from your transfer and ask them to trace it. They can check whether the money left your account and where it is in the system.

Transfers are sometimes rejected because of a mismatch in the recipient's name or account number. If this happens, Bank of America will usually return the money to your account within a few business days, though you may lose the wire fee you paid.

If the recipient's bank rejected the transfer because of an incorrect SWIFT code, the money will bounce back to you. This is why confirming the code with your bank before sending a large amount is worth the extra step.

SWIFT Code vs. Routing Number

A routing number is a nine-digit code used only for transfers within the United States. A SWIFT code is used for international transfers. Bank of America has both — the routing number for domestic transfers and BOFAUS3N for international ones.

If you are sending money to another U.S. bank, use the routing number. If you are sending money abroad or receiving money from abroad, use the SWIFT code. Using the wrong code will cause the transfer to fail or be delayed.

Some countries use both a SWIFT code and an IBAN. The SWIFT code identifies the bank; the IBAN identifies the specific account. When sending to Europe or the Middle East, you will often need both pieces of information.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

BOFAUS3N is the standard code for most Bank of America consumer and business accounts in the United States. However, some specialized accounts or business divisions may have different codes. If you are unsure, contact Bank of America directly before sending a large transfer.

Can I send an international wire through Bank of America's mobile app?

Most Bank of America accounts allow international wires through the mobile app or online banking. The process is similar to a domestic wire — you enter the recipient's information, including their SWIFT code, and confirm the transfer. Check your account to see if this feature is available to you.

What happens if I use the wrong SWIFT code?

If the code is incorrect, the receiving bank will reject the transfer and send the money back to your Bank of America account. This usually takes a few business days. You will not recover the wire fee you paid, so it is worth double-checking the code before you send.

Do I need a SWIFT code to receive money from abroad?

Yes. The sender's bank needs Bank of America's SWIFT code (BOFAUS3N) to route the money to your account. You should provide it to anyone sending you money from outside the United States, along with your account number and full name.

How much does it cost to send an international wire from Bank of America?

Bank of America charges an outgoing wire fee that varies by account type and destination. The fee is typically between $15 and $45 for transfers to other banks. Transfers to Bank of America accounts abroad may have different fees. Check your account terms or call customer service for the exact amount.