Bank of America SWIFT Code and How to Use It for Wire Transfers

Bank of America's SWIFT Code

Bank of America's primary SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N. This code routes international wire transfers to Bank of America's main processing center in New York. If you are sending money to or from a Bank of America account internationally, this is the code you will need.

SWIFT codes are eight or eleven characters long and identify a specific bank and branch in the global financial system. Bank of America uses BOFAUS3N for most international transfers. The code breaks down as: BOFA (the bank identifier), US (the country), 3N (the location code for the New York processing hub).

You may also encounter BOFAUS6S, which routes to Bank of America's Los Angeles processing center, or other regional codes depending on which branch holds your account. However, BOFAUS3N works for transfers to any Bank of America account in the United States, regardless of which physical branch you use.

Key Takeaways

Bank of America's main SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N, used for most international wire transfers to any U.S. Bank of America account.
SWIFT codes identify the bank and its processing location; using the wrong code can delay or misdirect your transfer.
You will also need the recipient's account number, routing number, and full name to complete an international wire.
Bank of America charges a fee for outgoing international wires, typically between $15 and $45 depending on the destination country.
Incoming international wires to Bank of America may carry a receiving fee; confirm the total cost before initiating the transfer.

When You Need a SWIFT Code vs. a Routing Number

A routing number identifies a specific Bank of America branch for domestic U.S. transfers. A SWIFT code identifies Bank of America globally for international transfers. If you are sending money within the United States, you use a routing number. If you are sending money across borders, you use a SWIFT code.

Some international transfers also require both: the SWIFT code to reach Bank of America's international processing system, and then a routing number or account number to direct the funds to the correct branch or account within the bank. The wire transfer service you use will tell you which pieces of information are required.

Information You Need to Provide with the SWIFT Code

A SWIFT code alone is not enough to complete an international wire. You will need to provide the recipient's full legal name, account number, and the SWIFT code together. Some transfers also require an IBAN (International Bank Account Number), which is a standardized account identifier used in Europe and some other regions. Bank of America accounts do not have IBANs, but if you are sending to a European bank, that bank will have one.

Double-check the recipient's name spelling and account number before submitting. Banks match these details strictly, and a typo can cause the transfer to be rejected or sent to the wrong account. If you are unsure about any detail, contact the recipient directly or call Bank of America at the number on the back of your debit card.

How Bank of America Processes International Wires

When you initiate an international wire through Bank of America, the bank uses the SWIFT code to route your transfer through the global banking network. The transfer typically takes three to five business days, though some corridors (common routes between countries) are faster. The actual time depends on the destination country's banking system and whether the receiving bank is open.

Bank of America will charge you a fee for sending the wire, which varies by destination. Wires to Canada or Mexico are usually cheaper than wires to other countries. You can ask Bank of America for the exact fee before you send; they will tell you the cost and deduct it from your account when the transfer goes through.

If you are receiving an international wire at Bank of America, the bank may also charge a receiving fee. This fee is sometimes deducted from the amount you receive, so the sender's $1,000 might arrive as $985 after fees. Ask the sender to confirm with their bank whether they are sending the full amount or whether fees will be deducted from it.

Regional SWIFT Codes and When They Matter

Bank of America operates multiple processing centers across the United States, each with its own SWIFT code. BOFAUS3N (New York) is the most commonly used and works for transfers to any Bank of America account. However, you may see references to BOFAUS6S (Los Angeles) or other regional codes.

In practice, using BOFAUS3N will route your transfer correctly even if the recipient's account is in California or Texas. The receiving bank's internal systems will direct the funds to the correct branch. Regional codes matter more when you are sending from outside the United States and the sending bank's system requires a specific processing location, but this is rare.

Sending an International Wire Through Bank of America

You can initiate an international wire through Bank of America online, by phone, or in person at a branch. Online transfers are usually the fastest and cheapest option. Log into your Bank of America account, select "Wire Money," choose "International," and enter the recipient's name, account number, bank name, SWIFT code, and the amount.

Bank of America will show you the fee and the exchange rate (if applicable) before you confirm. Review these carefully, as exchange rates fluctuate and fees vary by destination. Once you confirm, the transfer is usually sent the same business day if you submit it before the bank's cutoff time, typically 2 p.m. Eastern Time on weekdays.

If you call Bank of America to send a wire, a representative will walk you through the same information and may charge a higher fee than the online option. Sending in person at a branch works but is slower and may carry an additional fee for in-person service.

Common Mistakes When Using SWIFT Codes

The most common error is using a domestic routing number instead of a SWIFT code for an international transfer. A routing number will not work internationally; the transfer will be rejected or delayed. Always confirm whether you need a SWIFT code (international) or a routing number (domestic U.S.).

Another mistake is providing an incomplete or incorrect SWIFT code. BOFAUS3N is correct; BOFAUS or BOA are not. If you type the code wrong, the transfer may be rejected or sent to the wrong bank. Copy and paste the code directly from Bank of America's website or your wire instructions to avoid typos.

Mismatched names are also a problem. If the wire is addressed to "John Smith" but the account is registered as "John Michael Smith," some banks will reject it. Use the exact name on the recipient's account, which you can verify by asking them directly or checking their bank statement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use BOFAUS3N to send money to any Bank of America account?

Yes. BOFAUS3N routes to Bank of America's main processing center and works for transfers to any Bank of America account in the United States, regardless of which branch holds the account. You do not need a different code for different regions.

How long does an international wire to Bank of America take?

Most international wires arrive within three to five business days. Some countries have faster corridors and may arrive in one to two days. Weekends and holidays add time. Bank of America cannot speed up a wire once it has been sent; the timeline depends on the receiving country's banking system.

What if I send money to the wrong SWIFT code?

If the code does not match a real bank, the transfer will be rejected and returned to you, usually within five to ten business days. If the code is correct but belongs to a different bank, the transfer may be rejected by that bank or held pending investigation. Contact Bank of America immediately if you realize you made an error; they may be able to recall the transfer if it has not yet been processed.

Do I need both a SWIFT code and a routing number?

No. Use a SWIFT code for international transfers and a routing number for domestic U.S. transfers. Some international transfers may require both pieces of information, but the wire service will tell you which one you need. Bank of America's online wire form will guide you through the correct fields.

Is there a cheaper way to send international money than a wire?

Yes. International wire transfers through banks are reliable but expensive. Services like PayPal, Wise, or OFX often charge lower fees and offer better exchange rates for international transfers. However, these services work differently than bank wires and may have daily limits or longer processing times. Compare the total cost and timeline before you choose.

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.