A SWIFT code is an 8 or 11-character identifier that banks use to send money between countries

A SWIFT code (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) is a standardized code that tells the sending bank which bank to route your money to when you transfer funds internationally. It works alongside your account number and routing number to make sure the money reaches the right institution in the right country.

Every bank that participates in international transfers has a SWIFT code. The code itself is a combination of letters and numbers: the first four characters identify the bank, the next two identify the country, the next two identify the city or region, and the final three characters (if included) identify a specific branch. For example, a SWIFT code might look like CHASUS33 or CHASUS33NYC.

You need a SWIFT code when you are sending money out of the United States to another country, or when someone outside the U.S. is sending money to your U.S. bank account. Domestic transfers within the United States do not use SWIFT codes—they use routing numbers instead.

Key Takeaways

  • SWIFT codes identify the receiving bank for international transfers and consist of 8 or 11 characters that encode the bank name, country, city, and sometimes branch.
  • You need a SWIFT code when sending money internationally or receiving a wire transfer from outside the United States.
  • Your bank's SWIFT code is printed on statements, available through online banking, or can be found on the bank's website or by calling customer service.
  • SWIFT codes are different from routing numbers, which are used only for domestic U.S. transfers.
  • Some banks have multiple SWIFT codes for different branches or departments, so confirm you have the correct one for your specific branch before sending money.

How to find your bank's SWIFT code

Your bank's SWIFT code is usually listed on your bank statements, in your online banking portal, or on the bank's website. Most banks have a dedicated page for international transfers that lists the SWIFT code prominently. You can also call your bank's customer service line and ask for the SWIFT code associated with your account or branch.

When you ask for the code, be specific about which branch you use. Large banks often have different SWIFT codes for different locations or departments. For example, Bank of America's main SWIFT code is BOFAUS3N, but some branches or wire departments may have variations. Confirming the exact code for your branch prevents delays or routing errors.

If you are receiving money from someone outside the U.S., provide them with your bank's SWIFT code along with your account number. They will need both pieces of information to complete the transfer on their end.

SWIFT codes versus routing numbers

A routing number is a nine-digit code used only for transfers within the United States. A SWIFT code is used for international transfers. Both identify your bank, but they serve different purposes and are formatted differently.

If you are sending money to another U.S. bank account, you use the routing number. If you are sending money to a bank outside the United States, you use the SWIFT code. Some international transfers may require both your U.S. routing number and the receiving bank's SWIFT code, depending on the banks involved and the transfer method.

What information you need for an international wire transfer

To send money internationally, you will typically need the receiving bank's SWIFT code, the recipient's full name, their account number, and sometimes an International Bank Account Number (IBAN). The IBAN is a standardized account number format used in Europe and some other regions; it can be longer than a U.S. account number and includes country and bank information built into the number itself.

Some banks also ask for an intermediary bank's SWIFT code if the receiving bank does not have a direct relationship with your bank. This intermediary bank acts as a go-between to route the money. Your bank can tell you whether an intermediary is needed for the country and bank you are sending to.

Before you initiate a transfer, double-check all the information with the recipient or their bank. A single wrong character in a SWIFT code or account number can cause the transfer to fail or be delayed by several days while the banks sort out where the money should go.

How long international transfers take with a SWIFT code

An international wire transfer using a SWIFT code typically takes 1 to 5 business days, depending on the banks involved, the countries, and whether an intermediary bank is needed. Transfers that require an intermediary bank or that cross multiple time zones may take longer.

Your bank will give you a reference number when you send the transfer. Keep this number—if the transfer is delayed or does not arrive, you will need it to track the money and investigate what happened. You can contact your bank with the reference number to check the status of the transfer.

Common reasons SWIFT transfers fail or are delayed

The most common reason a SWIFT transfer fails is an incorrect SWIFT code or account number. Even a single digit or letter wrong will cause the receiving bank to reject the transfer. Some banks will return the money to you automatically; others may hold it while they try to contact the recipient.

Transfers can also be delayed if the receiving bank requires additional information, such as the purpose of the transfer or proof that the money is not related to illegal activity. Banks are required by law to verify certain international transfers, and this verification can add a few days to the process. If your bank contacts you asking for more information, respond as quickly as possible to avoid further delays.

Time zone differences can also affect timing. If you send a transfer late in the day or on a weekend or holiday, it may not begin processing until the next business day in the receiving country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a SWIFT code for a domestic transfer within the United States?

No. Domestic transfers within the U.S. use routing numbers, not SWIFT codes. SWIFT codes are only for international transfers. If you try to use a SWIFT code for a domestic transfer, your bank will reject it or ask you to provide the correct routing number instead.

What if I send money to the wrong SWIFT code by mistake?

Contact your bank immediately and provide the reference number for the transfer. Your bank can attempt to recall the transfer or contact the receiving bank to reverse it. The sooner you report the error, the better the chance of recovering the money. If the transfer has already been received and spent, recovery becomes much more difficult.

Do I need both a SWIFT code and an IBAN?

It depends on the receiving country and bank. Many European and international banks require an IBAN. Some banks accept either a SWIFT code or an IBAN; others require both. Ask the recipient or their bank which information they need before you send the transfer.

Is there a fee for using a SWIFT code to send money?

Yes. International wire transfers typically cost between $15 and $50, depending on your bank and the receiving country. Some banks charge a flat fee; others charge a percentage of the amount transferred. Ask your bank about fees before you send the transfer so there are no surprises.

Can I look up someone else's bank's SWIFT code online?

Yes. Several websites maintain searchable databases of SWIFT codes by bank name and country. However, always confirm the code with the bank directly or with the person receiving the money, because using an incorrect code can cause the transfer to fail or be delayed.