Bank of America SWIFT Codes: What They Are and How to Find the Right One

Bank of America's SWIFT codes vary by location and transaction type

Bank of America does not have a single SWIFT code. Instead, the bank maintains multiple SWIFT codes depending on which branch or service center handles your transaction. The most commonly used code for international wire transfers to Bank of America in the United States is BOFAUS3N, but the exact code you need depends on whether you are sending money to a specific branch, receiving a wire, or conducting a particular type of transaction.

A SWIFT code (also called a BIC code) is an 8 or 11-character identifier that banks use to route international payments. When you send money across borders, the sending bank uses the SWIFT code to find the correct receiving bank and sometimes the correct branch within that bank. Using the wrong code can delay your transfer or send it to the wrong location entirely.

Key Takeaways

Bank of America's primary SWIFT code for U.S. wire transfers is BOFAUS3N, but other codes exist for specific branches and services.
The last four characters of a SWIFT code sometimes identify a specific branch, so different Bank of America locations may have different codes.
Your Bank of America account statement, online banking portal, or a call to your local branch can confirm the exact code you need.
International wire recipients should always verify the SWIFT code with the receiving bank directly before sending money.

How to find your Bank of America SWIFT code

The fastest way to find the correct SWIFT code is to log into your Bank of America online banking account and look for wire transfer or international payment instructions. Most accounts display the relevant SWIFT code in the wire transfer section. If you do not see it there, call your local Bank of America branch and ask for the SWIFT code associated with your account or the specific service you need.

If you are receiving a wire transfer from someone outside the United States, ask the sender to contact their bank and request Bank of America's SWIFT code for incoming wires. The sender's bank can often provide the correct code directly. You can also visit Bank of America's official website and search for "SWIFT code" or "international wire instructions" — the bank publishes this information for customers.

Common Bank of America SWIFT codes and what they mean

The code BOFAUS3N is the most widely recognized Bank of America SWIFT code for general international transactions. The first four letters (BOFA) identify Bank of America. The next two letters (US) indicate the United States. The last three characters (3N) typically point to a specific processing center or branch.

Some Bank of America locations or services may use codes like BOFAUS6S or BOFAUS7S depending on the branch or the type of transaction. Older or regional codes may still appear on some documents. If you see a SWIFT code on a Bank of America statement or wire instruction that does not match BOFAUS3N, it is likely correct for that specific location or service — do not assume it is wrong just because it looks different.

What happens if you use the wrong SWIFT code

Using an incorrect SWIFT code can cause a wire transfer to be delayed, rejected, or routed to the wrong financial institution. If the code does not match any bank in the SWIFT system, the sending bank may return the money to the sender after several days. If the code matches a different bank, your money may end up in that bank's system, and recovering it can take weeks.

If you have already sent a wire with an incorrect code, contact your bank when ready and provide them with the transaction details. They can sometimes intercept the transfer before it settles. If the money has already arrived at the wrong location, you will need to work with both your bank and the receiving bank to trace and recover the funds.

SWIFT codes versus other routing information

Bank of America also uses a routing number for domestic U.S. transfers. The routing number is different from the SWIFT code and is used only for transfers within the United States. If you are sending money to a Bank of America account inside the U.S., you typically need the routing number, not the SWIFT code. If you are sending money from outside the U.S. or to an account outside the U.S., you need the SWIFT code.

Some international transfers also require an IBAN (International Bank Account Number), which is common in Europe and some other regions. Bank of America accounts in the United States do not have IBANs. If someone asks you for an IBAN to send money to your Bank of America account, they may be confused about the type of account or the country — clarify with them and with your bank before proceeding.

Verifying a SWIFT code before sending money

Before you send an international wire, always verify the SWIFT code with the receiving bank or the account holder directly. A straightforward phone call or email can prevent a costly mistake. Ask the recipient to confirm the code in writing, or ask their bank to provide it on official letterhead.

Be cautious of SWIFT codes provided by third parties or found on informal websites. Scammers sometimes provide fake codes to redirect transfers to accounts they control. If you are sending a large amount or to a new recipient, take the extra step of calling the receiving bank's main number (not a number provided by the recipient) and asking them to confirm the code.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

BOFAUS3N is the most common code for Bank of America in the United States, but some branches or specific services may use different codes. Check your account statements or contact your branch to confirm the code for your location.

Do I need a SWIFT code to send money to Bank of America from another U.S. bank?

No. Domestic transfers between U.S. banks use routing numbers, not SWIFT codes. You only need a SWIFT code if you are sending money from outside the United States or to a bank account outside the U.S.

What if the person sending me money says they need my SWIFT code but I have a U.S. Bank of America account?

If they are sending from outside the U.S., they do need your SWIFT code. Provide them with BOFAUS3N or the code your branch gave you. If they are sending from within the U.S., they need your routing number instead — ask them to clarify where they are sending from.

Can I use the same SWIFT code for both sending and receiving money?

Usually yes, but not always. Some banks use different codes for incoming and outgoing transfers. Ask your Bank of America branch which code to provide to people sending you money, and which code to use if you are sending money out.

How long does an international wire take if I use the correct SWIFT code?

A correct SWIFT code does not may provide speed — most international wires take one to three business days depending on the receiving bank's processing time and any intermediate banks involved. The SWIFT code just ensures the money reaches the right bank.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.