A SWIFT number is a code your bank uses to receive money from outside the United States

A SWIFT number (also called a SWIFT code or BIC code) is an 8 or 11-character code that identifies your specific bank branch to the international financial system. When someone sends you money from another country, they give this code to their bank so the payment reaches your account instead of getting lost in the global banking network.

The letters stand for Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, the organization that assigns and maintains these codes. Every bank in the world that handles international transfers has one. You will only need it if you are receiving money from outside the United States — domestic transfers between U.S. banks do not use SWIFT numbers.

SWIFT numbers are different from routing numbers. A routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your bank for transfers within the United States. A SWIFT number identifies your bank internationally and is always alphanumeric (letters and numbers mixed).

Key Takeaways

  • A SWIFT number is required only when receiving international wire transfers; domestic U.S. transfers do not use it.
  • SWIFT codes are 8 or 11 characters long and are alphanumeric, while U.S. routing numbers are 9 digits.
  • You can find your bank's SWIFT number on your bank's website, by calling customer service, or by searching the official SWIFT directory.
  • The sender's bank needs your SWIFT number, your account number, and sometimes your full name and address to complete an international transfer.

How to find your bank's SWIFT number

Your bank's SWIFT number is publicly available information. The fastest way to find it is to log into your online banking account — many banks display it in the "wire transfer information" or "international transfer" section. If it is not there, call your bank's customer service line and ask for the SWIFT code for your specific branch.

You can also search the official SWIFT directory at swift.com. Enter your bank's name and location, and the directory will show you the correct code. Be careful to select the right branch if your bank has multiple locations, because some large banks have different SWIFT codes for different branches.

Write down or screenshot the code exactly as it appears. A single wrong letter or number will send the money to the wrong place, and recovering it can take weeks.

What information the sender needs from you

When someone is sending you money from abroad, they will need more than just your SWIFT number. Their bank requires a complete set of details to route the transfer correctly.

At minimum, provide: your full name (exactly as it appears on your account), your account number, your bank's SWIFT number, and your bank's name and address. Some countries or banks also ask for an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) if your bank issues one — U.S. banks typically do not, so you may not have one.

Ask the sender's bank what information they need before the sender initiates the transfer. Different countries have different requirements, and missing a single piece of information can delay or reject the payment.

How long international transfers take

An international wire transfer using SWIFT typically takes 3 to 5 business days to arrive in your account, though it can take longer depending on the sender's country, your bank, and whether the transfer needs to pass through intermediary banks.

Weekends and holidays add time. If the sender initiates a transfer on Friday afternoon, it may not begin processing until Monday. Some banks also hold international transfers for an extra day or two while they verify the transaction is not fraudulent.

Once the money arrives at your bank, it is usually available in your account within one business day, though some banks make it available when ready.

Fees and exchange rates

Both your bank and the sender's bank may charge fees for international transfers. Your bank typically charges between $15 and $50 to receive a wire transfer, though some banks charge nothing. The sender's bank charges a separate fee to send it, which is their responsibility.

If the money is being sent in a foreign currency, your bank will convert it to U.S. dollars. The exchange rate your bank uses is usually not the real-time market rate — banks add a markup, typically 1 to 3 percent. This means you receive slightly less than the amount shown in the original currency. Ask your bank what rate they use before the transfer is sent so there are no surprises.

SWIFT numbers versus other transfer methods

SWIFT transfers are the traditional method for international payments, but they are not the only option. Newer services like Wise (formerly TransferWise), PayPal, and Remitly often offer better exchange rates and lower fees, especially for smaller amounts.

These services work differently — they do not use SWIFT codes. Instead, they move money between their own accounts in different countries, which is faster and cheaper. However, they are best for person-to-person transfers. If a business or government agency is sending you money, they may only accept SWIFT transfers.

If you are receiving money regularly from abroad, compare the total cost (fees plus exchange rate markup) across SWIFT transfers and alternative services. The cheapest option depends on the amount, the countries involved, and how often you receive transfers.

What to do if a transfer does not arrive

If you are expecting an international transfer and it does not arrive within 5 business days, contact your bank when ready. Provide them with the sender's name, the amount, the date it was sent, and the sender's bank name and country.

Your bank can trace the transfer through the SWIFT system to find out where it is. If it was sent to the wrong account because of an error in the SWIFT code or account number, recovery is possible but slow — it can take 2 to 4 weeks to get the money back.

If the sender claims they sent the money but your bank cannot find a record of it, the sender's bank may not have actually processed it. Ask the sender to check with their bank for a confirmation number or receipt before assuming your bank lost it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a SWIFT number the same as a routing number?

No. A routing number is a 9-digit code used only for transfers within the United States. A SWIFT number is an 8 or 11-character alphanumeric code used for international transfers. You need a routing number for domestic wire transfers and a SWIFT number for international ones.

Can I receive money internationally without a SWIFT number?

Not through a traditional bank wire transfer. Some alternative services like Wise or PayPal do not use SWIFT codes, but they work differently and may have their own requirements. If someone is sending you money through their bank, they will need your SWIFT number.

What if my bank does not have a SWIFT number?

All banks that handle international transfers have a SWIFT number. If your bank says they do not, they may not offer international wire transfer services. In that case, you would need to open an account at a bank that does, or use an alternative service like Wise.

Do I need a SWIFT number to send money out of the United States?

Yes. When you send money internationally, you provide the recipient's SWIFT number to your bank so the payment reaches their account. You will also need their account number and full name.

Can someone steal my money if they have my SWIFT number?

A SWIFT number alone is not enough to steal money from your account. A thief would also need your account number and full name, and they would still need to initiate the transfer from a bank account they control. However, do not share your account number or SWIFT number with anyone you do not trust.