Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N

Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N. This eight-character code identifies Bank of America in the international banking system and is what you provide when someone outside the United States needs to send you money or when you're sending money internationally from a Bank of America account.

The code breaks down this way: BOFA is the bank identifier, US identifies the country, and 3N is the branch code for the main U.S. operations center. You don't need to memorize it — you can find it on Bank of America's website, in your account statements, or by calling customer service.

If you're receiving a wire transfer from abroad, the sender's bank will ask for this code along with your account number and routing number. If you're sending money out, Bank of America will provide you with the recipient's SWIFT code when you initiate the transfer.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's SWIFT code BOFAUS3N is used for international wire transfers and is required by foreign banks sending money to your account.
  • The code is eight characters long and identifies Bank of America specifically within the global banking network.
  • You'll need this code if someone outside the U.S. is wiring you money, but Bank of America will handle the details if you're sending money out.
  • Your routing number and account number are separate from your SWIFT code and are also needed to complete an international transfer.

When you need to give out your SWIFT code

You provide Bank of America's SWIFT code when you're the recipient of an international wire transfer. A family member abroad, a business partner in another country, or an international payment service sending you funds will need this code along with your account number to route the money correctly.

The sender's bank uses the SWIFT code to locate Bank of America in the global banking system, then uses your account number to deposit the funds into your specific account. Without the correct SWIFT code, the transfer may be delayed or sent to the wrong bank entirely.

You should also have your Bank of America routing number (which is different from your SWIFT code) and your full account number ready. The routing number is a nine-digit code specific to your branch or region, while the SWIFT code is the same for all Bank of America customers worldwide.

How to find your SWIFT code if you're unsure

If you don't have Bank of America's SWIFT code written down, you have several quick ways to find it. Log into your Bank of America online account or mobile app and look for wire transfer instructions or international transfer details — the code is usually listed there.

You can also call Bank of America customer service at the number on the back of your debit or credit card. A representative can confirm the code and answer any questions about the transfer. Bank of America's website also lists the SWIFT code in their international wire transfer section.

Some people write down their SWIFT code, routing number, and account number together and keep it in a safe place for reference. This saves time if you need to give the information to someone later.

SWIFT codes versus routing numbers

Your Bank of America routing number and SWIFT code serve different purposes, though both are needed for international transfers. The routing number (nine digits) is used for domestic transfers within the United States. The SWIFT code (eight characters) is used for international transfers.

When you're sending money domestically — say, to another bank account in the U.S. — you use only the routing number and account number. When money is coming from outside the U.S., the sender uses the SWIFT code to identify Bank of America, then the routing number and account number to identify your specific account within the bank.

If you're sending money internationally from your Bank of America account, the bank will ask you for the recipient's SWIFT code, not their routing number. Bank of America's systems will handle the conversion and routing on the sending end.

What happens after you provide your SWIFT code

Once the sender has your SWIFT code, account number, and routing number, they initiate the transfer through their own bank. Their bank contacts Bank of America using the SWIFT code, and Bank of America's system matches the routing number and account number to your account.

International wire transfers typically take three to five business days, though some may arrive faster depending on the sending bank and any intermediary banks involved. You'll see the funds appear in your account once the transfer is complete, and Bank of America will usually send you a notification.

If the transfer doesn't arrive within the expected timeframe, contact Bank of America with the sender's bank name, the amount, and the date the transfer was initiated. Bank of America can trace the transfer and determine where it is in the system.

Common mistakes when sharing your SWIFT code

The most common mistake is confusing your SWIFT code with your routing number or account number. Make sure you're giving the sender the correct eight-character code (BOFAUS3N) and not mixing it up with your nine-digit routing number or your account number.

Another mistake is providing incomplete information. The sender needs three pieces: the SWIFT code, the routing number, and your account number. If you leave out any of these, the transfer may fail or be delayed. Double-check that you've given all three before the sender initiates the transfer.

Some people worry about security when sharing their SWIFT code. Your SWIFT code is not sensitive information — it's public and the same for all Bank of America customers. However, you should never share your full account number or routing number with someone you don't trust, as these can be used to withdraw funds from your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bank of America's SWIFT code the same for all customers?

Yes. BOFAUS3N is the SWIFT code for all Bank of America customers in the United States. It doesn't change based on your account type, location, or branch. The code identifies the bank itself, not your individual account.

Can I use a different SWIFT code for Bank of America?

Bank of America has one primary SWIFT code for U.S. operations (BOFAUS3N). In rare cases, specific divisions or legacy systems may have alternate codes, but BOFAUS3N is the standard code you should use. If you're unsure, contact Bank of America directly.

What if I give the sender the wrong SWIFT code?

If the SWIFT code is incorrect, the transfer will either be rejected by the sending bank or routed to a different bank. The sender's bank will typically return the funds to the sender after a few days. Contact the sender and provide the correct code so they can try again.

Do I need my SWIFT code to send money internationally from Bank of America?

No. You need the recipient's SWIFT code, not your own. When you initiate an international wire transfer from Bank of America, you provide the recipient's bank details, including their SWIFT code. Bank of America handles the rest.