Bank of America's Swift Code for Domestic and International Wires

Bank of America's Swift code is BOFAUS3N. This nine-character code identifies Bank of America specifically when you send or receive money internationally. If you are wiring money to or from a Bank of America account, your bank or the receiving bank will ask for this code to route the transfer correctly.

The code breaks down as follows: BOFA identifies the bank, US identifies the country (United States), and 3N identifies the specific branch routing center. When you provide this code to another bank or financial institution, it tells their system exactly where your money needs to go.

For domestic wire transfers within the United States, you typically do not need a Swift code. Instead, you will use the bank's routing number, which is a nine-digit code specific to your Bank of America branch. However, if a domestic transfer involves an international component or passes through an intermediary bank, the Swift code may be required.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's Swift code is BOFAUS3N and is used only for international wire transfers, not domestic ones.
  • The code tells foreign banks and financial institutions how to identify and route money to Bank of America accounts.
  • For domestic wires within the United States, use your Bank of America routing number instead of the Swift code.
  • You can find your routing number on the bottom left of your checks or by calling Bank of America customer service.
  • When sending money internationally, confirm the receiving bank's requirements — some may ask for an IBAN, account number, or additional details beyond the Swift code.

When You Need the Swift Code vs. the Routing Number

The routing number is what you use for domestic transfers — moving money between U.S. banks. Bank of America's routing number varies by state and branch, but you can find it on your checks or by logging into your online banking account. The routing number tells U.S. banks where to send your money within the country.

The Swift code is what you use when money crosses a border. If you are sending money from a Bank of America account to someone in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, or anywhere else outside the United States, the sending bank needs the Swift code to identify the receiving institution. Similarly, if someone outside the U.S. is sending you money to your Bank of America account, they will need the Swift code.

Some international transfers also require an IBAN (International Bank Account Number), which is a standardized account identifier used in Europe and many other regions. Bank of America accounts do not have IBANs because they are U.S.-based, but if you are sending money to a European or other international account, you will need the recipient's IBAN in addition to their bank's Swift code.

How to Provide Your Swift Code When Receiving Money

If someone outside the United States is sending you money to your Bank of America account, give them BOFAUS3N along with your account number. They will provide this information to their bank, which will use the Swift code to route the transfer to Bank of America and then to your specific account.

You may also need to provide your full name as it appears on your account, your account number, and sometimes your address. Different countries and banks have different requirements, so ask the sender's bank what information they need before the transfer is sent. Providing incomplete or incorrect information can delay the transfer or cause it to be rejected.

Bank of America does not charge a fee for receiving international wire transfers, but the sending bank or intermediary banks may charge fees on their end. Those fees are typically deducted from the amount sent, so the money you receive may be less than what was originally sent.

Sending Money Internationally From Bank of America

To send an international wire from Bank of America, you will need the recipient's bank's Swift code, their account number, their full name, and their address. You can initiate the transfer online through your Bank of America account, by phone, or by visiting a branch in person.

Bank of America charges a fee for outgoing international wire transfers. The fee amount depends on the destination country and whether you are sending the money to another Bank of America account or to a different bank. You can find current fees on the Bank of America website or by calling customer service.

The transfer typically takes three to five business days to arrive, though this varies depending on the receiving country and bank. Some countries have faster processing times than others. Bank of America will provide you with a confirmation number and tracking information so you can monitor the transfer's progress.

Common Mistakes When Using the Swift Code

The most common error is confusing the Swift code with the routing number. Remember: Swift codes are for international transfers only. If you are sending money to another U.S. bank account, use the routing number, not BOFAUS3N.

Another mistake is providing an incomplete or incorrect Swift code. BOFAUS3N is the correct code for all Bank of America international transfers. If you type it wrong — for example, BOFAUS3 (missing the final N) or BOFAUS33 (extra digit) — the transfer may fail or be delayed.

A third common issue is not providing all the required information. The Swift code alone is not enough. You must also include the recipient's account number, full name, and sometimes their address. Leaving out any of these details can cause the transfer to be rejected or sent to the wrong account.

Where to Find Your Bank of America Account Details

Your routing number appears on the bottom left of every check you receive from Bank of America. It is a nine-digit number printed below the account number. You can also find it by logging into your Bank of America online account, calling customer service at the number on the back of your debit card, or visiting a Bank of America branch.

Your account number is printed on your checks and is also visible in your online banking portal. When you are receiving an international wire, provide both your routing number and your account number to the sender, along with your full name as it appears on your account.

If you are unsure which information to provide, call Bank of America customer service. They can confirm your routing number, account number, and whether any additional information is needed for the specific transfer you are expecting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BOFAUS3N the only Swift code Bank of America uses?

Yes, BOFAUS3N is the primary Swift code for all Bank of America international wire transfers. You do not need to look up a different code based on your branch or account type. Use this code for all incoming and outgoing international wires.

Do I need the Swift code if I am sending money to another Bank of America account in the U.S.?

No. For transfers between Bank of America accounts within the United States, use the routing number instead. The Swift code is only for international transfers. Using the routing number is faster and does not require international wire processing.

What happens if I provide the wrong Swift code?

If the code is incorrect, the sending bank may reject the transfer before it is sent, or the money may be routed to the wrong institution. Either way, the transfer will not reach your Bank of America account. Always double-check the code before confirming the transfer.

Can I look up someone else's Swift code if I do not know it?

You can search for a bank's Swift code online using the bank's name and country, but the most reliable method is to ask the recipient directly or contact their bank. Banks sometimes have multiple Swift codes for different purposes, so confirming with the recipient ensures you have the correct one.

How long does an international wire with the Swift code take?

Most international wires arrive within three to five business days. The exact timing depends on the receiving country, the receiving bank, and whether any intermediary banks are involved. Bank of America will provide you with an estimated delivery date when you initiate the transfer.