Where to find your bank's SWIFT code in seconds
A SWIFT code is an eight- or eleven-character identifier that banks use to send money internationally. You can find yours in three places: your bank's website (usually under "international transfers" or "wire instructions"), your bank statement, or by calling your bank's customer service line directly.
The fastest route is your bank's website. Search for "SWIFT code" or "international wire instructions" on their site, or look in the help or FAQ section. Most banks list it prominently because they know people need it for incoming transfers. If your bank has a mobile app, the code is often in the settings or account details section.
If you cannot find it online, call the number on the back of your debit or credit card and ask for the SWIFT code. Have your account number ready. The representative will give it to you in under a minute. Some banks also print it on paper statements, usually near the routing number and account number.
Key Takeaways
- Your bank's SWIFT code appears on your bank's website under international transfer or wire instruction pages.
- You can also find it by calling your bank's customer service line or checking a recent paper statement.
- SWIFT codes are eight or eleven characters long and always start with your bank's four-letter code.
- The code is the same for all customers of that bank, so you do not need to look up a personal version.
What a SWIFT code looks like and what each part means
SWIFT codes follow a strict format. The first four letters are your bank's code (for example, CHASE for Chase Bank). The next two letters are your country code (US for the United States). The next two characters are a location code for the bank's branch or headquarters. The last three characters, if present, identify a specific branch or department.
An example: CHASUS33 is Chase Bank in the United States. CHASUS33XXX would be a longer version identifying a specific Chase location. Both versions work for international transfers — the receiving bank will route the money correctly either way.
You do not need to memorize or decode it yourself. Just copy the code exactly as your bank provides it. Typos in SWIFT codes can delay transfers or send money to the wrong bank, so double-check before you send it to someone.
SWIFT codes versus routing numbers and account numbers
A routing number is a nine-digit code used for domestic transfers within the United States. A SWIFT code is used for international transfers. A account number is unique to your specific account at your bank.
For a wire transfer within the US, you need the routing number and account number. For a wire transfer to another country, you need the SWIFT code and account number. Some international transfers also ask for an IBAN (International Bank Account Number), which is common in Europe but not used in the US.
If someone asks you for your bank details for an international transfer, provide all three: your SWIFT code, your account number, and your full name as it appears on your account. The receiving bank will use the SWIFT code to find your bank, then use your account number to deposit the money into your specific account.
How to verify you have the correct SWIFT code
The easiest way to verify is to use the SWIFT code lookup tool on the official SWIFT website (swift.com). Enter your bank's name and country, and the site will show you the correct code. This is free and does not require registration.
You can also ask the person sending you money to confirm the code with their bank before they initiate the transfer. Many banks will double-check a SWIFT code for free if you call and ask. This takes five minutes and prevents money from going to the wrong place.
If you are sending money out of the US, your own bank can verify the receiving bank's SWIFT code before you complete the transfer. Most banks do this automatically as a fraud check.
What to do if your bank does not have a SWIFT code
All banks that handle international transfers have SWIFT codes. If you cannot find yours, your bank either does not offer international wire transfers, or the code is listed under a different name on their website.
Some smaller banks or credit unions do not participate in the SWIFT network. If that is the case, you have two options: ask your bank if they use a correspondent bank (a larger bank that handles international transfers on their behalf), or open an account at a bank that does offer international transfers.
If your bank uses a correspondent bank, you will need that bank's SWIFT code instead of your own bank's code. Your bank can provide this information when you ask about international transfers.
Common mistakes when using SWIFT codes
The most common error is typing the code wrong. SWIFT codes are case-insensitive (uppercase and lowercase both work), but every letter and number must be exact. A single typo can send your money to a different bank or delay the transfer by days.
Another mistake is confusing a SWIFT code with a routing number. Routing numbers are nine digits; SWIFT codes are letters and numbers. If someone asks for your SWIFT code and you give them a routing number, the transfer will fail.
Some people also assume they need a different SWIFT code for each account they hold at the same bank. You do not. All accounts at Chase, for example, share the same SWIFT code. The account number is what distinguishes your account from someone else's at the same bank.
When you need a SWIFT code versus when you do not
You need a SWIFT code when you are receiving money from outside the United States, or sending money to another country. You do not need it for domestic transfers within the US — those use routing numbers instead.
If someone in another country is sending you money, give them your SWIFT code and account number. If you are sending money to someone abroad, ask them for their bank's SWIFT code and their account number (or IBAN if they are in Europe).
For transfers between two US banks, neither party needs a SWIFT code. The sending bank uses the receiving bank's routing number to complete 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 the same thing. Banks use both terms interchangeably. If someone asks for your BIC code, give them your SWIFT code.
Can I use the same SWIFT code for all my accounts at the same bank?
Yes. The SWIFT code identifies the bank, not the account. Your account number is what distinguishes your account from other accounts at that bank. You only need one SWIFT code per bank.
What happens if I give someone the wrong SWIFT code?
The transfer may be rejected, delayed, or sent to a different bank. If money goes to the wrong bank, you will need to contact that bank and your own bank to trace and recover it, which can take weeks. Always double-check the code before sharing it.
Do I need a SWIFT code to receive a domestic wire transfer?
No. For transfers within the US, you only need your routing number and account number. SWIFT codes are only for international transfers.
Where do I find my bank's SWIFT code if they do not list it online?
Call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person. Have your account number ready. They can provide the code in minutes. You can also ask if they use a correspondent bank for international transfers.