Bank of America's international wire transfer process and SWIFT codes

Bank of America handles international wire transfers through the SWIFT network, which connects banks worldwide. To send money internationally from a Bank of America account, you'll need the recipient's bank SWIFT code, their account number, and their full name and address. Bank of America's own SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N for most U.S. domestic and international transfers.

You can initiate an international wire through Bank of America online, by phone, or in person at a branch. The bank charges a fee for outgoing international wires—the amount varies depending on whether the transfer goes through their standard process or an expedited route. Processing typically takes one to three business days, though some transfers may take longer if the receiving bank is in a country with limited banking infrastructure.

The recipient's bank will also charge a fee to receive the wire, which is deducted from the amount that arrives. This means the person receiving the money will get less than you send. You should confirm with the recipient's bank what their incoming wire fee is before you transfer, so the recipient knows what to expect.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's SWIFT code for international wires is BOFAUS3N, and you'll also need the recipient's bank SWIFT code and account number to complete a transfer.
  • International wires through Bank of America take one to three business days and cost a fee from Bank of America plus a separate fee charged by the receiving bank.
  • You can send an international wire online, by phone, or in person, but online transfers may have lower daily limits than phone or branch transfers.
  • The full amount you send does not arrive at the destination—receiving bank fees are subtracted from what the recipient gets.

How to send an international wire online through Bank of America

Log into your Bank of America online account and select the wire transfer option from the payments menu. You'll enter the recipient's name, address, and bank details, including their SWIFT code and account number. Bank of America will show you the fee upfront and the amount the recipient will receive after the receiving bank's fee is deducted.

Online transfers have daily and monthly limits that vary by account type and your account history. If you're sending a large amount, you may hit your online limit and need to call or visit a branch instead. The system will tell you if your transfer amount exceeds your limit.

After you submit the wire online, you'll receive a confirmation number. Save this number—you'll need it if you have questions about the transfer or if something goes wrong. Bank of America will debit your account immediately, even though the money may take several days to reach the recipient's bank.

Sending an international wire by phone or at a branch

Call Bank of America's wire transfer line or visit a branch in person to send an international wire if you prefer not to use online banking or if your transfer amount exceeds your online limit. A representative will walk you through the process and collect the same information: recipient name, address, bank SWIFT code, and account number.

Phone and branch transfers often have higher limits than online transfers, so this route works if you're sending a large sum. A branch representative can also answer questions about fees and timing specific to the country you're sending to, since some countries have slower banking systems or require additional documentation.

If you send by phone, the representative will give you a confirmation number. If you send in person, ask for a receipt with the confirmation number and all transfer details. Keep this documentation until the recipient confirms they received the money.

Understanding SWIFT codes and routing information

A SWIFT code is an eight- or eleven-character code that identifies a specific bank and branch in the international banking system. Bank of America's primary SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N. The recipient's bank will have its own SWIFT code, which you must provide for the wire to reach the correct institution.

Do not confuse a SWIFT code with a routing number. A routing number is used for domestic U.S. transfers and is different from a SWIFT code. International wires require the SWIFT code, not the routing number. If you provide the wrong SWIFT code, the wire may be sent to the wrong bank or rejected entirely.

You can find the recipient's bank SWIFT code by asking them directly, checking their bank's website, or using a SWIFT code lookup tool. Always verify the code with the recipient before sending, because an incorrect code can delay or misdirect your transfer.

Fees and what affects the final amount received

Bank of America charges an outgoing wire fee for international transfers. The exact amount depends on the destination country and whether you use standard or expedited processing. You can see the fee before you confirm the transfer, whether you're sending online or through a representative.

The receiving bank also charges a fee to accept the incoming wire. This fee is typically deducted from the amount that arrives, so if you send $1,000 and both banks charge fees, the recipient will receive less than $1,000. Some banks charge a flat fee; others charge a percentage of the transfer amount.

Intermediate banks may also take a fee if the wire passes through their system on the way to the final destination. This happens most often when the recipient's bank is not directly connected to the SWIFT network or is in a country with limited banking infrastructure. You cannot predict intermediate bank fees in advance, so the recipient may receive less than you expect.

How long international wires take and what to do if yours is delayed

Bank of America typically processes outgoing international wires within one business day. The wire then travels through the SWIFT network to the recipient's bank, which usually takes one to two additional business days. In total, expect three to five business days for the money to appear in the recipient's account, though some transfers complete faster.

Weekends and holidays can extend the timeline. If you send a wire on Friday evening, it may not leave Bank of America until Monday, and the recipient's bank may not process it until Tuesday or Wednesday. Transfers to countries with less developed banking systems or during their local holidays may take longer.

If your wire has not arrived after five business days, contact Bank of America with your confirmation number. The bank can check the status with the receiving bank and determine whether the wire is still in transit, stuck in an intermediate bank, or rejected. If the wire was rejected, Bank of America can help you resend it or reverse the transaction.

Alternatives to SWIFT transfers for international money

Bank of America also offers international transfers through its own network of partner banks, which may be faster or cheaper than SWIFT for certain countries. Ask a representative whether a direct transfer through Bank of America's partner network is available for your destination country.

For smaller amounts or regular transfers to the same person, services like PayPal, Wise (formerly TransferWise), or other money transfer companies may have lower fees and better exchange rates than a bank wire. These services are not banks and do not use SWIFT, but they can move money internationally and sometimes faster than a traditional wire.

If you're sending money to a family member or business partner regularly, compare the total cost of a bank wire (Bank of America's fee plus the receiving bank's fee) against the cost of a dedicated money transfer service. The cheaper option depends on the amount, destination, and frequency of your transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bank of America's SWIFT code?

Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N for most international wire transfers. This code identifies Bank of America in the global SWIFT network. If you're receiving a wire from outside the U.S., provide this code to the sender so the money reaches your Bank of America account.

Can I cancel an international wire after I send it?

Once a wire leaves Bank of America, it cannot be stopped. If you made a mistake with the recipient's details, contact Bank of America immediately with your confirmation number. The bank may be able to contact the receiving bank and ask them to reject the wire, but this is not may provide and depends on how far the wire has traveled.

Why did the recipient receive less money than I sent?

The receiving bank charged a fee to accept the wire, which was deducted from the amount that arrived. Intermediate banks may also have charged a fee if the wire passed through their system. Bank of America shows the receiving bank's fee before you send, but intermediate bank fees are not always visible in advance.

Do I need to provide my Bank of America account number to the recipient?

No. The recipient needs your name and address so they can verify the wire came from you, but they do not need your account number. If someone asks for your Bank of America account number to send you money, do not provide it—legitimate international wires do not require the recipient's account number.

What exchange rate does Bank of America use for international wires?

Bank of America uses its own exchange rate for currency conversion, which is typically higher than the mid-market rate you see online. The exact rate depends on the currency pair and current market conditions. Bank of America will show you the rate and the converted amount before you confirm the transfer.