A SWIFT code is an 8 or 11-character identifier that banks use to send money internationally

When you send money from a Chase account to someone outside the United States, the receiving bank needs to know which Chase branch or office the money is coming from. A SWIFT code (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) is the standardized way banks identify each other across borders. Chase has multiple SWIFT codes because different branches and business units have different codes.

For most personal transfers from a Chase checking or savings account, you will use one of Chase's main SWIFT codes. The most common one is CHASUS33, which represents Chase Bank USA in New York. If you are sending money from a different Chase location or for a business transfer, the code may differ. The receiving bank will often tell you which code to use, or you can call Chase directly to confirm the right one for your specific transfer.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase's primary SWIFT code for most personal international transfers is CHASUS33, which identifies Chase Bank USA's main office.
  • Different Chase branches and business divisions may have different SWIFT codes, so confirm the correct one before sending money.
  • The receiving bank can usually tell you which SWIFT code to provide, or you can contact Chase customer service to verify.
  • SWIFT codes are required for international wire transfers but not for domestic transfers within the United States.

When you need a SWIFT code versus other routing information

A SWIFT code is only necessary when money is moving across international borders. If you are sending money to another bank within the United States, you will use a routing number instead—a nine-digit code specific to the U.S. banking system. Chase routing numbers vary by state and account type, and they appear on the bottom left of your checks.

For international transfers, you typically need both the SWIFT code and the recipient's International Bank Account Number (IBAN) or account number in their country's format. Some countries require the IBAN; others use account numbers. The receiving bank's website or a quick phone call will tell you exactly what information they need. Providing the wrong SWIFT code will cause the transfer to be rejected or delayed, so it is worth taking 30 seconds to confirm.

How to find Chase's SWIFT code for your transfer

The fastest way is to call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit or credit card. Tell them you are sending an international wire transfer and ask for the SWIFT code. They will confirm whether CHASUS33 is correct for your situation or provide an alternative if your transfer is from a business account or a specific branch.

You can also log into your Chase online banking portal and look for international transfer instructions, which often list the SWIFT code. Some Chase branches post this information on their websites or in their lobby materials. If you are receiving money from someone outside the U.S. and they ask you for Chase's SWIFT code, give them CHASUS33 unless Chase customer service has told you otherwise for your specific account.

What happens if you use the wrong SWIFT code

If the SWIFT code is incorrect, the sending bank's system will usually reject the transfer before it leaves their country. The money stays in the sender's account, and they are notified of the error. This rejection can take a few business days, so the sender may not realize there is a problem when ready.

In rare cases, an incorrect SWIFT code might route the money to a different bank entirely. If this happens, that bank will eventually return the funds to the sender, but the process can take one to three weeks. To avoid this, always double-check the code with Chase or the receiving bank before the sender initiates the transfer. Once the transfer is sent, it is difficult to stop or redirect.

SWIFT codes for specific Chase business units

Chase has separate SWIFT codes for different divisions. If you are sending money to or from a Chase business account, investment account, or international office, the code may not be CHASUS33. For example, Chase's treasury and trade solutions division has a different code than its retail banking division.

The safest approach is to contact Chase directly and describe what type of account you are using and where the money is going. They will provide the exact code for your situation. Do not guess based on information you find online, because outdated or incorrect codes can cause delays or failed transfers.

International wire transfer timelines and fees

Once you provide the correct SWIFT code and initiate an international wire transfer from Chase, the money typically leaves your account within one business day. The receiving bank then processes it, which usually takes one to three additional business days depending on the country and their banking system. Some countries have faster processing than others.

Chase charges a fee for outgoing international wire transfers—the amount varies but is typically between $15 and $50 depending on whether the transfer is to a Chase account or a non-Chase account. The receiving bank may also charge a fee on their end. Ask Chase about the total cost before you send the transfer, and confirm that the recipient knows they may receive slightly less than the amount you sent if fees are deducted from the transfer itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CHASUS33 the SWIFT code for all Chase accounts?

CHASUS33 is the main SWIFT code for most Chase personal and business accounts in the United States. However, some business divisions, international offices, and specialty accounts may have different codes. Contact Chase to confirm the code for your specific account type before sending an international transfer.

Do I need a SWIFT code to send money between two Chase accounts?

No. If both accounts are at Chase, you can transfer money domestically using Chase's internal transfer system or by providing the recipient's Chase routing number and account number. SWIFT codes are only for transfers to banks outside the United States.

What if the bank I'm sending money to asks for a different SWIFT code?

Ask them to provide the code they need or check their website for international transfer instructions. If they give you a code different from CHASUS33, use theirs—they know their own banking system. If you are unsure, contact Chase customer service to verify that the code they provided is legitimate.

Can I look up a SWIFT code online instead of calling Chase?

You can find SWIFT codes in online databases, but calling Chase is more reliable because they can confirm the code matches your specific account and transfer type. Online databases sometimes contain outdated or incorrect information, so verification with Chase reduces the risk of a failed transfer.

How long does an international wire transfer take with the correct SWIFT code?

The transfer typically leaves Chase within one business day. The receiving bank then processes it in one to three additional business days, depending on the country and their system. Some countries process faster than others, so ask the receiving bank for their typical timeline.