Wells Fargo's SWIFT code is WFBIUS6S
A SWIFT code is an 8 or 11-character identifier that banks use to route international wire transfers. Wells Fargo's main SWIFT code is WFBIUS6S. You need this code when you're sending money from a Wells Fargo account to someone outside the United States, or when someone outside the US is sending money to your Wells Fargo account.
The code breaks down as follows: WFBI identifies Wells Fargo, US indicates the United States, and 6S is the branch code for the main processing center. Some Wells Fargo branches have their own SWIFT codes, but WFBIUS6S works for most international transfers to any Wells Fargo account in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Wells Fargo's primary SWIFT code is WFBIUS6S, used for most international wire transfers to or from any Wells Fargo account in the United States.
- You need a SWIFT code when sending money internationally, but not for domestic transfers within the US.
- Some individual Wells Fargo branches have their own SWIFT codes; you can find yours by calling Wells Fargo or checking your account documents.
- International transfers using SWIFT codes typically take 3 to 5 business days and may include fees from both Wells Fargo and the receiving bank.
When you need a SWIFT code versus other routing information
A SWIFT code is only for international transfers. If you're sending money to another US bank account, you need a routing number instead—Wells Fargo's domestic routing number varies by state and account type, so check your checks or online banking.
When someone outside the US sends you money, they will ask for your SWIFT code, your account number, and sometimes your bank's full address. If you're sending money out of the country, your bank will ask you for the recipient's SWIFT code, their account number, and their bank's address. Do not confuse the two: a US routing number will not work for international transfers, and a SWIFT code will not work for domestic ones.
How to find your branch-specific SWIFT code
The main code WFBIUS6S works for all Wells Fargo accounts nationwide. However, some larger Wells Fargo branches have their own SWIFT codes for specific locations or business units. If you need to know whether your branch has a separate code, call Wells Fargo at the number on the back of your debit card or check your account statements.
You can also log into your Wells Fargo online account and look for international transfer details, or visit a local branch and ask. Wells Fargo customer service can confirm the correct code for your specific account in under five minutes. Having the right code speeds up the transfer and reduces the chance of the money being delayed or sent to the wrong place.
What happens during an international wire transfer
When you initiate an international wire using a SWIFT code, your bank sends a message through the SWIFT network to the receiving bank. The message includes the recipient's account number, the amount, the currency, and the reason for the transfer. The receiving bank then credits the money to the recipient's account.
This process typically takes 3 to 5 business days, though it can be faster or slower depending on the receiving country, the time of day you send it, and whether the receiving bank is open. Wells Fargo will charge you a fee for sending the transfer—usually between $15 and $50 depending on the amount and destination country. The receiving bank may also charge a fee, which is usually deducted from the amount the recipient gets.
Information you need to provide for an international transfer
To send money internationally from Wells Fargo, have the following information ready:
- Recipient's full name and address
- Recipient's bank name and address
- Recipient's account number
- Recipient's bank SWIFT code
- The amount and currency you're sending
- The reason for the transfer (some countries require this)
If any of this information is wrong or incomplete, the transfer may be rejected or delayed. Some countries also require an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) instead of or in addition to the account number and SWIFT code. Ask the recipient to confirm all details before you initiate the transfer, and keep a record of the confirmation and your Wells Fargo transaction reference number.
What to do if a transfer goes wrong
If money sent via SWIFT code does not arrive within 5 business days, contact Wells Fargo immediately. Have your transaction reference number ready—Wells Fargo provides this when you send the transfer. The bank can trace the transfer through the SWIFT network and find out where it is stuck.
If the money was sent to the wrong account because of an error in the SWIFT code or account number, recovery is harder. Wells Fargo can contact the receiving bank and ask them to return the funds, but the receiving bank is not required to comply. This is why confirming all details with the recipient before sending is critical. If the receiving bank refuses to return the money, you may have limited recourse beyond filing a complaint with Wells Fargo's customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WFBIUS6S the same for all Wells Fargo accounts?
Yes, WFBIUS6S is the standard SWIFT code for Wells Fargo accounts across the United States. Some large corporate or international divisions may have separate codes, but for personal and most business accounts, this code works for all international transfers.
Do I need a SWIFT code to receive money from abroad?
Yes. Anyone sending you money from outside the US will need your SWIFT code (WFBIUS6S), your account number, and your name exactly as it appears on your account. Provide all three pieces of information to avoid delays.
What's the difference between a SWIFT code and an IBAN?
A SWIFT code identifies the bank; an IBAN (used mainly in Europe and some other regions) identifies the specific account within that bank. Some countries require both. Ask the recipient or receiving bank which one they need.
How much does it cost to send an international wire from Wells Fargo?
Wells Fargo charges between $15 and $50 per outgoing international wire, depending on the destination country and transfer amount. The receiving bank may also charge a fee. Ask Wells Fargo for the exact fee before you send.
Can I cancel an international wire after I send it?
It depends on how fast you act. If you cancel within a few hours of sending, Wells Fargo may be able to stop it. Once the money reaches the receiving bank, cancellation becomes much harder. Contact Wells Fargo immediately if you need to cancel.