Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N, though the exact code depends on which state and service you need

Bank of America uses BOFAUS3N as its primary SWIFT code for most domestic and international wire transfers. SWIFT codes are eight or eleven-character identifiers that banks use to route money between institutions. The code breaks down as BOFA (the bank identifier) + US (the country) + 3N (the location code for the main processing center).

However, Bank of America maintains additional SWIFT codes for specific states and services. If you are sending money to or from a Bank of America branch in a particular state, or if you are using a specialized service like their investment division, you may need a different code. The receiving bank or your Bank of America representative can confirm which code applies to your transfer.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's main SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N, which works for most wire transfers to and from the bank.
  • Different states and services may have their own SWIFT codes, so confirm with the receiving institution or Bank of America before sending money.
  • You will need the recipient's SWIFT code, account number, and full name to complete an outgoing wire transfer.
  • International wire transfers using SWIFT codes typically take one to three business days, while domestic transfers are often faster.

When you need Bank of America's SWIFT code

You need a SWIFT code when sending money internationally or when a domestic wire transfer requires it. If you are wiring money from another bank to your Bank of America account, that bank will ask for Bank of America's SWIFT code. If you are sending money out of your Bank of America account to another bank overseas, you will need the receiving bank's SWIFT code.

Domestic wire transfers within the United States typically use routing numbers instead of SWIFT codes, but some banks accept SWIFT codes for domestic transfers as well. Bank of America's routing number differs from its SWIFT code and serves a different purpose in the U.S. banking system.

How to find the right SWIFT code for your transfer

Start by contacting Bank of America directly through their customer service line, online banking portal, or by visiting a branch in person. Have the recipient's location or the specific service ready — for example, whether the transfer is going to a California branch or a New York branch. Bank of America can tell you immediately whether BOFAUS3N is correct or whether you need a state-specific code.

If you are receiving a wire transfer, ask the sender's bank for Bank of America's SWIFT code. Many banks maintain lists of common SWIFT codes on their websites, though these are not always current. The safest approach is always to ask Bank of America or the sending bank directly rather than relying on an outdated list.

What information you need alongside the SWIFT code

A SWIFT code alone is not enough to complete a wire transfer. You will also need the recipient's full legal name (exactly as it appears on their account), their account number, and the bank's address. For international transfers, you may also need an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) if the receiving country uses one.

Double-check all details before submitting the transfer. A wrong account number or misspelled name can send money to the wrong person, and recovering it is difficult and time-consuming. Many wire transfer errors happen because one digit was typed incorrectly or a name did not match the account exactly.

How long a wire transfer takes with a SWIFT code

International wire transfers using SWIFT codes typically take one to three business days, depending on the receiving country and whether the receiving bank needs to route the money through additional intermediary banks. Some countries have faster processing than others. Weekends and holidays can add time to the transfer.

Bank of America usually processes outgoing wire requests the same business day if you submit them before their cutoff time, which is typically mid-afternoon. Incoming wire transfers to your Bank of America account may appear the same day or the next business day, depending on when the sending bank initiated the transfer and whether any intermediary banks are involved.

State-specific SWIFT codes for Bank of America

Bank of America maintains SWIFT codes for major states and regions. While BOFAUS3N works for most transfers, some situations call for a state-specific code. For example, if you are wiring money to a Bank of America branch in California, Texas, or New York, the sending bank may request a code specific to that state.

The difference between codes is technical and relates to how the bank routes transfers internally. In most cases, using the main code will still work, but using the correct state code can speed up processing. Ask Bank of America which code applies to the specific branch or service you are using.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BOFAUS3N the same as Bank of America's routing number?

No. A SWIFT code and a routing number serve different purposes. The routing number (typically nine digits) is used for domestic U.S. transfers, while the SWIFT code is used for international transfers or when specifically requested. Bank of America has one main SWIFT code but many routing numbers depending on the branch.

Can I use BOFAUS3N for a domestic wire transfer within the United States?

Most domestic wire transfers use routing numbers instead of SWIFT codes. However, some banks accept SWIFT codes for domestic transfers as well. Ask your bank whether they need the SWIFT code or the routing number for a transfer to Bank of America.

What happens if I use the wrong SWIFT code?

If the code is incorrect or does not match the receiving bank, the transfer may be rejected or delayed. The sending bank will usually catch the error and ask you to correct it before processing. If the money does go through to the wrong bank, recovering it can take weeks or longer.

Do I need a SWIFT code to receive money at Bank of America?

The sending bank needs Bank of America's SWIFT code to route the money to you. You do not need to provide it yourself — the sender's bank will ask for it. You should provide your full name, account number, and Bank of America's SWIFT code to anyone sending you an international wire transfer.