Where to find your bank's SWIFT code

Your bank's SWIFT code is an eight or eleven-character identifier that tells the receiving bank which financial institution is sending money. You can find it in three places: your bank's website (usually under "international transfers" or "wire instructions"), your monthly statement, or by calling your bank's customer service line directly.

The fastest route is your bank's website. Log in to your account and look for a section labeled "wire transfer information," "international transfers," or "SWIFT/BIC codes." Some banks list it prominently on the homepage under "contact us" or "routing information." If you cannot find it online, call the number on the back of your debit card and ask for the SWIFT code — the representative will give it to you in under a minute.

Your monthly bank statement may also print the SWIFT code, though not all statements include it. Check the first page or the section that lists account details and routing numbers. If it is not there, the online banking portal or a phone call remains your most reliable option.

Key Takeaways

  • SWIFT codes are eight or eleven characters long and identify your specific bank in international wire transfers.
  • Your bank's website is the fastest place to look, usually under "international transfers" or "wire instructions."
  • If you cannot find it online, call your bank's customer service number and ask directly — they will provide it immediately.
  • Some banks include the SWIFT code on monthly statements, but not all do.
  • The SWIFT code is different from your routing number and account number, which are used for domestic transfers.

How SWIFT codes are structured

A SWIFT code always follows the same pattern. The first four characters are the bank code (letters only), the next two are the country code, the next two are the location code, and the final three characters (if present) identify the specific branch. For example, a SWIFT code might look like CHASUS33 — the first four letters identify the bank, "US" means United States, and "33" pinpoints the location.

The eleven-character version includes a branch identifier at the end. The eight-character version (also called the BIC code) covers the main office. Most international transfers accept either version, but some banks or receiving institutions may request the longer form if you are sending to a specific branch rather than the main office.

Differences between SWIFT codes, routing numbers, and account numbers

These three numbers serve different purposes. Your routing number is a nine-digit code used for domestic transfers within the United States — it tells the Federal Reserve which bank to send money to. Your account number identifies your specific account at that bank. Your SWIFT code is used only for international transfers and identifies your bank to foreign financial institutions.

When you send money internationally, the receiving bank needs your SWIFT code to know which U.S. bank is sending the funds. Domestic transfers never require a SWIFT code. If you are sending money within the United States, you will use your routing number and account number instead.

What to do if your bank does not have a SWIFT code

Most banks have SWIFT codes, but some smaller institutions or credit unions may not. If your bank does not have one, ask whether they participate in international wire transfers at all. Some smaller banks route international transfers through a larger correspondent bank, which means you would use that larger bank's SWIFT code instead of your own.

Your bank can tell you the name and SWIFT code of their correspondent bank — the institution that actually handles the international transfer on their behalf. Provide this information to whoever is sending you money. If your bank does not offer international transfers through any route, you may need to open an account at a larger bank or use a money transfer service instead.

Common mistakes when using SWIFT codes

The most frequent error is confusing your SWIFT code with your routing number. Routing numbers are nine digits; SWIFT codes are eight or eleven characters and include letters. If you enter a routing number where a SWIFT code is requested, the transfer will fail or be delayed.

Another mistake is using an outdated SWIFT code. Banks occasionally change their codes during mergers or restructuring. Always verify the code directly with your bank rather than relying on an old statement or a website that may not have updated information. A wrong SWIFT code will not send money to the wrong account — the transfer will simply be rejected by the receiving bank.

When you need to provide your SWIFT code to someone else

If someone outside the United States is sending you money, they will ask for your SWIFT code. Provide your bank's main SWIFT code unless they specifically request the branch code. You should also give them your account number and routing number, as some international transfers require all three pieces of information depending on the sending bank's requirements.

Make sure the person sending the money has the correct spelling and formatting. SWIFT codes are case-insensitive (uppercase and lowercase both work), but they cannot have spaces or extra characters. Double-check before you provide it, and confirm with the sender that they have entered it correctly before they submit the transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a SWIFT code the same as a BIC code?

Yes. BIC stands for Bank Identifier Code, and SWIFT code and BIC code are used interchangeably. Both refer to the same eight or eleven-character code that identifies your bank internationally. You may see either term used on your bank's website or in transfer instructions.

Can I use someone else's bank's SWIFT code to send them money?

No. You need your own bank's SWIFT code to send money out. The receiving person provides their bank's SWIFT code so the money knows where to go. If you are sending money internationally, your bank will ask for the recipient's bank's SWIFT code, not yours.

What happens if I use the wrong SWIFT code?

The transfer will be rejected by the receiving bank, and the money will be returned to your account. A wrong SWIFT code will not send money to the wrong person — the receiving bank simply will not recognize the code and will bounce the transfer back. Contact your bank to confirm the correct code and try again.

Do I need a SWIFT code for transfers within the United States?

No. Domestic transfers use your routing number and account number only. SWIFT codes are required only for international transfers. If someone asks for your SWIFT code for a U.S. transfer, they may be confused about the type of transfer or the information they actually need.