Chase's SWIFT and BIC codes are the same thing, and the code you need depends on which country you're sending money to
SWIFT and BIC are two names for the same identifier — a code that tells the international banking system which bank and branch will receive your wire transfer. Chase uses different codes depending on whether you're sending money within the United States, to Canada, or to other countries. For most international wires from Chase, you'll use CHASUS33 (the main code for Chase Bank USA) or a branch-specific variant.
The code matters because a wire sent to the wrong bank code will either bounce back or arrive at the wrong institution. Getting it right the first time means your money reaches the intended recipient without delay or extra fees.
Key Takeaways
- Chase's primary SWIFT/BIC code for international wires is CHASUS33, which routes to their main processing center in New York.
- Different Chase branches and business lines have their own codes, so confirm the exact code with the recipient's bank or Chase before sending.
- Domestic US wires do not use SWIFT codes — they use routing numbers instead, which are different from SWIFT codes.
- You can find the correct code by calling Chase directly, asking the recipient's bank which code to use, or checking your wire transfer confirmation documents.
When you need CHASUS33 versus a branch-specific code
CHASUS33 is Chase's standard SWIFT code for most international wire transfers. It directs your money to Chase's main international processing center. This code works for the vast majority of wires sent from Chase accounts to recipients outside the United States.
Some Chase business divisions and specific branches have their own codes. If you're wiring from a Chase Private Client account, a commercial banking relationship, or certain institutional accounts, the code may be different. The recipient's bank will often tell you which code to use when you ask them for wiring instructions — they maintain records of which Chase codes correspond to which types of accounts.
How SWIFT codes differ from US routing numbers
If you're sending money within the United States, you don't use a SWIFT code at all. Domestic US wires use a routing number instead, which is a nine-digit code specific to each bank and branch. Chase's main routing number is 021000021, but different Chase branches may have different routing numbers for certain types of accounts.
The routing number tells the Federal Reserve and other US banks where to send the money. SWIFT codes only apply to international transfers. Mixing them up — for example, trying to use CHASUS33 for a domestic wire — will cause the transfer to fail or be rejected by your bank.
How to confirm the correct code before you send
The safest way to get the right code is to ask the person or business receiving the money. They should have their own bank's wiring instructions, which will include the SWIFT code their bank expects to receive from senders. This is more reliable than guessing, because it confirms both the code and the account details at the same time.
If you're sending from a Chase account, you can also call Chase directly before initiating the wire. Their wire transfer department can confirm the exact code for your account type and destination country. Many wire transfer mistakes happen because the sender used an outdated or incorrect code, so a 5-minute phone call can save you days of waiting for a returned transfer.
What information you'll need to provide along with the SWIFT code
A SWIFT code alone is not enough to complete an international wire. You'll also need the recipient's full name, their bank account number (or IBAN — International Bank Account Number — depending on the country), and their bank's name and address. Some countries require additional information like a reference number or purpose of transfer.
When you initiate a wire through Chase online or by phone, you'll fill in all of these details in a specific order. Chase's system will validate the SWIFT code against the account number and country to catch obvious mismatches before the transfer leaves. Double-check every field, because once a wire is sent, it's difficult and expensive to reverse.
Why the code matters for timing and fees
Using the correct SWIFT code means your wire reaches the right bank on the first attempt, typically within one to three business days depending on the destination country. An incorrect code can cause the wire to be rejected, returned to Chase, and then re-sent — adding a week or more to the process and potentially triggering additional fees from both Chase and the receiving bank.
Some banks charge a fee for handling returned or misdirected wires. Chase may charge you a fee to re-send a wire that bounced, and the receiving bank may charge the recipient a fee for the delay. Getting the code right the first time avoids these extra costs and keeps the transfer on schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CHASUS33 the code for all Chase locations?
CHASUS33 works for most Chase international wires, but some business accounts and private banking relationships have their own codes. Ask your Chase banker or the recipient's bank which code applies to your specific transfer.
Can I use a SWIFT code for a domestic wire within the US?
No. Domestic US wires use routing numbers, not SWIFT codes. Using a SWIFT code for a domestic transfer will cause the wire to be rejected. Ask the recipient for their US routing number if you're sending money within the country.
What happens if I use the wrong SWIFT code?
The wire will either be rejected by the receiving bank or routed to the wrong institution. Either way, the money will not reach the intended recipient. The wire may be returned to Chase, and you'll need to re-send it with the correct code. This can add several days to the process.
Where do I find the SWIFT code on my Chase statements or account?
SWIFT codes don't appear on regular Chase statements because they're only used for outgoing international wires. You'll find the code in Chase's wire transfer instructions, on their website, or by calling their wire department directly.
Do I need a different code if I'm sending to Canada?
Canada uses SWIFT codes for international transfers. CHASUS33 will work for most wires to Canada, but confirm with the Canadian recipient's bank, as some Canadian institutions may have specific codes they prefer to receive from US senders.