Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N

SWIFT code is a standardized identifier that banks use to route money across international borders. Bank of America's SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N. You need this code when you are receiving money from outside the United States or sending money to another country, because the receiving bank uses it to confirm they are sending funds to the right financial institution.

The code breaks down into four parts: BOFA (the bank identifier), US (the country), 3N (the location code for the main branch). Different Bank of America branches may have different SWIFT codes depending on their location and the type of transaction, but BOFAUS3N is the primary code used for most international transfers to Bank of America accounts in the United States.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America's main SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N, used for most international wire transfers into U.S. accounts.
  • SWIFT codes are required by the sending bank to route money correctly across borders; without it, the transfer may be delayed or rejected.
  • Some international transfers also require your account number, routing number, and full name to match your Bank of America account exactly.
  • If you are sending money out of Bank of America to another country, you will need the receiving bank's SWIFT code, not Bank of America's.
  • Bank of America may have additional SWIFT codes for specific branches or transaction types; confirm with your bank if a transfer is rejected.

When you need a SWIFT code

You need a SWIFT code when someone outside the United States is sending you money directly into your Bank of America account. The sender's bank uses the SWIFT code to identify Bank of America as the destination and route the funds through the international banking network. Without it, the transfer cannot be completed.

You do not need a SWIFT code if you are receiving money from another U.S. bank account — domestic transfers use routing numbers instead. You also do not need Bank of America's SWIFT code if you are the one sending money out; in that case, you will need the SWIFT code of the bank where the recipient holds an account.

How SWIFT codes work in an international transfer

When money moves across borders, it passes through multiple banks. The sending bank uses the SWIFT code to identify the receiving bank and connect to it through the SWIFT network, which is a secure messaging system that banks use to communicate payment instructions. The code tells the network: "This money is going to Bank of America in the United States."

Once the receiving bank (Bank of America) gets the message, it uses your account number and name to deposit the funds into your specific account. If any of these details — the SWIFT code, your account number, or your name — do not match what is on file, the bank may hold the transfer, return it, or delay it while staff investigate. This is why senders must have all information correct before initiating the transfer.

Information you need to provide to receive an international transfer

When someone is sending you money from abroad, give them all of the following details so the transfer reaches your account without delay:

  • Bank of America's SWIFT code: BOFAUS3N
  • Your full name, exactly as it appears on your Bank of America account
  • Your Bank of America account number
  • Your Bank of America routing number (for U.S. domestic reference; some international senders may also ask for this)
  • Your full address

The sending bank may also ask for an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) if the transfer is coming from Europe or certain other regions. Bank of America does not use IBANs for U.S. accounts, so you can tell the sender that you do not have one and provide your account number and routing number instead.

What to do if you do not know the SWIFT code

If someone is trying to send you money and asks for Bank of America's SWIFT code, you can give them BOFAUS3N directly. If they tell you that code does not work or their bank rejects it, contact Bank of America customer service to confirm whether a different code applies to your specific account or branch.

Bank of America has multiple SWIFT codes for different divisions and purposes — for example, investment banking, treasury services, or specific regional offices. If you are receiving a transfer that is not a standard wire to a checking or savings account, a different code may be required. Bank of America's customer service line can tell you which code to use in your situation.

Sending money out of Bank of America internationally

If you are sending money from your Bank of America account to someone in another country, you will initiate the transfer through Bank of America's online banking, mobile app, or by visiting a branch. You will not use Bank of America's SWIFT code; instead, you will need the SWIFT code of the bank where the recipient holds an account in their country.

Bank of America can help you look up the receiving bank's SWIFT code if you do not have it. You can also ask the recipient to provide it, or search for it on the receiving bank's website. The transfer will take several business days to complete, and Bank of America may charge a fee for international wire transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BOFAUS3N the SWIFT code for all Bank of America accounts?

BOFAUS3N is the primary SWIFT code for most Bank of America accounts in the United States. However, some specialized accounts or divisions may use different codes. If a transfer is rejected, contact Bank of America to confirm the correct code for your account type.

How long does an international transfer take with a SWIFT code?

International wire transfers typically take three to five business days after the sending bank initiates the transfer. The exact timeline depends on the sending bank, any intermediate banks involved, and whether the receiving bank needs to verify information. Weekends and holidays can add extra days.

What happens if I give the sender the wrong SWIFT code?

If the SWIFT code is incorrect, the sending bank's system will usually reject the transfer before it is sent, and the sender will be notified. If the transfer does go through to the wrong bank, it may be returned to the sender, which can take one to two weeks. Always double-check the code before the sender initiates the transfer.

Do I need a SWIFT code to receive money from another U.S. bank?

No. Transfers between U.S. banks use routing numbers, not SWIFT codes. You only need a SWIFT code for international transfers coming from outside the United States.

Can I look up a SWIFT code online?

Yes. Bank of America publishes its SWIFT code on its website, and many third-party SWIFT code lookup tools also list it. Always verify the code through Bank of America's official website or by calling customer service to make sure you have the current, correct code.