What a Chase BIC is and why you need it

A BIC (Bank Identifier Code) is an eight- or eleven-character code that identifies a specific bank branch worldwide. For Chase Bank, the BIC is almost always CHASUS33 — the same code for all U.S. Chase locations. You need it when someone outside the United States sends you money by wire transfer, because international wire systems use BIC codes instead of routing numbers to find the right bank.

If you're sending money out of the country, you'll give your BIC to the sender. If you're receiving an international wire into a Chase account, the sender's bank will ask for your BIC, and you'll provide CHASUS33. The code tells the foreign bank's system that the money is headed to Chase in the United States.

The BIC is different from your routing number (which is nine digits and used for domestic U.S. transfers) and your account number (which identifies your specific account). All three pieces of information together ensure the wire lands in the right place.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase's BIC code for all U.S. locations is CHASUS33, and this is the code you provide for international wire transfers.
  • The BIC is required by international wire systems but not used for domestic U.S. wire transfers, which rely on routing numbers instead.
  • You'll need your BIC along with your account number and the sender's bank details for an international wire to reach your Chase account.
  • Chase customer service can confirm your BIC and provide it in writing if you need documentation for a wire transfer.

When you need to provide your BIC versus your routing number

Use your BIC (CHASUS33) when an international sender is wiring money to you from outside the United States. Their bank's wire system requires a BIC to route the transfer through the global banking network. Domestic senders within the U.S. do not use BIC codes at all.

Use your routing number (which you can find on the bottom left of your Chase checks, or by calling Chase) when someone in the United States is sending you a domestic wire transfer. The routing number is a nine-digit code specific to your Chase branch location and is the standard identifier for U.S. wire transfers.

If you're unsure whether a transfer is domestic or international, ask the sender where their bank is located. If it's outside the U.S., you'll need to provide your BIC. If it's a U.S. bank, provide your routing number instead.

How to confirm your Chase BIC before a wire arrives

The easiest way to confirm your BIC is to call Chase customer service at the number on the back of your debit or credit card. Tell them you need your BIC code for an international wire transfer. They will confirm that it is CHASUS33 and can provide it in writing if you need documentation.

You can also log into your Chase online banking account or mobile app and look for wire transfer information in the settings or account details section. Some Chase branches will print your BIC on a letter if you visit in person and ask, which can be useful if you need to show proof to an employer or another party.

Do not rely on a BIC code you find on an unofficial website without confirming it with Chase directly. Using an incorrect code can delay or misdirect an international wire, and you want to be certain before money is sent.

What information the sender needs from you

For an international wire into your Chase account, the sender will need to provide their bank with several pieces of information about you. Have these ready before the sender initiates the transfer:

  • Your full name (exactly as it appears on your Chase account)
  • Your Chase account number
  • Your BIC code (CHASUS33)
  • The name and address of your Chase branch (or the main Chase address in the U.S.)
  • Your address

Some international wire systems also ask for an IBAN (International Bank Account Number), but U.S. banks including Chase do not use IBANs. If the sender's bank asks for an IBAN, tell them you have a U.S. account and provide your account number and BIC instead.

How long an international wire takes once it's sent

International wires typically take three to five business days to arrive in your Chase account, though some can take longer depending on the sender's bank, intermediate banks involved, and time zones. The sender's bank will give them an expected delivery date when they initiate the transfer.

Once the wire arrives, Chase will deposit it into your account and send you a notification. You can check your account balance in Chase online banking or the mobile app to see if the transfer has posted. If the wire does not arrive within the timeframe the sender was given, contact Chase with the sender's bank name and the wire reference number (which the sender should have received).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CHASUS33 the BIC for every Chase branch?

Yes. CHASUS33 is the BIC for all Chase Bank locations in the United States. You do not need to look up a different code based on which branch you use or which state you live in. International wire systems use this single code to identify Chase.

What if the sender's bank asks for a SWIFT code instead of a BIC?

SWIFT code and BIC code are the same thing. SWIFT stands for Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication, which is the organization that assigns BIC codes. If the sender's bank asks for a SWIFT code, provide CHASUS33.

Can I use my BIC for a domestic wire transfer within the U.S.?

No. Domestic U.S. wire transfers use routing numbers, not BIC codes. If you're receiving a wire from another U.S. bank, provide your nine-digit Chase routing number instead. Using a BIC for a domestic transfer may cause the wire to be rejected or delayed.

What if I give the sender the wrong BIC code?

If an incorrect BIC is used, the wire may be rejected by the international banking system or routed to the wrong bank. The sender's bank will typically return the money to the sender after a few days. Always confirm CHASUS33 with Chase before giving it to a sender.

Do I need to do anything to receive an international wire, or does it just arrive?

You do not need to take any action to receive an international wire. Once the sender initiates the transfer with your correct information (name, account number, and BIC), the wire will process through the banking system and deposit into your Chase account automatically. You'll receive a notification when it arrives.