Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N, and you'll need it to receive money from outside the United States

A SWIFT code is an eight- or eleven-character identifier that banks use to route international wire transfers. Bank of America's code is BOFAUS3N — the same for all their U.S. locations. When someone abroad sends you money, they give their bank this code along with your account number so the transfer reaches the right place. You don't need to do anything with the code yourself; you just provide it to whoever is sending you the money.

The code breaks down this way: BOFA identifies Bank of America, US means United States, and 3N is the routing identifier for their main processing center. Some wire transfer forms ask for an 11-character version, which is BOFAUS3NXXX — the three X's are just padding and mean the same thing.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N for all U.S. accounts, regardless of which branch you use.
  • You provide this code to the person or business sending you an international wire transfer, not to your bank.
  • If a form asks for an 11-character code, use BOFAUS3NXXX — the three X's at the end are standard padding.
  • Your account number and routing number are separate from the SWIFT code and may also be required by the sender.

When you need to give out your SWIFT code

You'll share your SWIFT code when someone outside the U.S. is sending you money by wire transfer. This includes family members abroad, international employers paying salary, clients in other countries, or businesses settling invoices. The sender's bank requires it to know which U.S. bank to send the funds to.

The sender will enter the SWIFT code into their bank's wire transfer form along with your name, account number, and sometimes your bank's address. Without the correct code, the transfer may be delayed or sent to the wrong institution. You should give them BOFAUS3N and confirm you've spelled it correctly before they initiate the transfer.

What information to provide alongside your SWIFT code

The SWIFT code alone is not enough. The sender will also need your account number and your name exactly as it appears on your Bank of America account. Some senders' banks ask for additional details, such as your bank's address or a reference number for the transfer.

Bank of America's main wire processing address is 100 North Tryon Street, Charlotte, North Carolina 28255, though you should confirm the current address with your bank before providing it to an international sender. The sender's bank may also ask for your routing number (which is different from your SWIFT code) — Bank of America's domestic routing numbers vary by region, so you can find yours by logging into your account online or calling customer service.

How SWIFT codes differ from routing numbers

A routing number is used for domestic U.S. transfers between American banks. A SWIFT code is used for international transfers. They serve the same purpose — telling the sending bank where to direct the money — but they work in different systems. You need a routing number for transfers within the U.S. and a SWIFT code for transfers from abroad.

Bank of America has multiple routing numbers depending on your account type and location, but only one SWIFT code for all U.S. accounts. If you're receiving money from outside the U.S., always provide the SWIFT code. If you're receiving money from another U.S. bank, provide your routing number instead.

Confirming the code before a transfer begins

Before the sender initiates a wire transfer, double-check that you've given them the correct code. A typo in the SWIFT code can cause the transfer to fail or go to the wrong bank. Once the sender's bank processes the transfer, it's difficult to recall, so verification beforehand saves time and frustration.

You can confirm Bank of America's SWIFT code by logging into your online banking account, calling Bank of America customer service, or visiting a branch. Some Bank of America statements or account documents also list the SWIFT code. Write it down clearly and read it back to the sender letter by letter to make sure there are no mistakes.

What happens after the sender uses your SWIFT code

Once the sender's bank processes the wire transfer using your SWIFT code and account number, the money travels through the international banking system, typically arriving within one to three business days. Bank of America will receive the transfer, match it to your account, and deposit it. You'll see the funds in your account and can use them once the transfer is complete.

If the transfer doesn't arrive within the expected timeframe, contact Bank of America with the sender's name, the amount, and the date the transfer was sent. Your bank can trace the transfer through the SWIFT system and determine where it is in the process. Keep any confirmation details the sender received from their bank — these help trace the transfer if there's a delay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BOFAUS3N the same for every Bank of America account?

Yes. All Bank of America accounts in the U.S., regardless of account type or branch location, use the same SWIFT code: BOFAUS3N. You don't need to look up a different code based on where your account is or what kind of account you have.

What if someone asks for a different SWIFT code for Bank of America?

Bank of America has only one SWIFT code for U.S. accounts. If someone tells you to use a different code, verify it with Bank of America directly before providing it. Scammers sometimes give fake SWIFT codes to redirect transfers, so confirm with your bank if anything seems unusual.

Can I use the SWIFT code to send money out of my Bank of America account?

No. You provide your SWIFT code to people sending you money from abroad. To send money internationally from your Bank of America account, you'll work with your bank directly and provide them with the recipient's SWIFT code and account details.

Do I need both a SWIFT code and a routing number for an international transfer?

The sender needs your SWIFT code for an international transfer. They may also ask for your routing number, account number, and your name. Provide whatever information their bank requires — having extra details doesn't hurt and can help may support the transfer goes through correctly.

What if the transfer arrives but the amount is different?

International transfers sometimes include fees that the sender's bank deducts before the money reaches you. The sender should have told you about these fees beforehand. If the amount is significantly less than expected, contact the sender to confirm what they sent, then contact Bank of America if there's a discrepancy.