How do I find my banks's SWIFT number?

Modified on Mon, 3 Jun at 2:19 PM

What is a SWIFT Code?

A SWIFT code is a standard format of Bank Identifier Codes used when transferring money between banks, particularly for international wire transfers. SWIFT stands for the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications.

The code consists of 8 or 11 characters:

- First 4 characters - bank code (unique to the particular bank)

- Next 2 characters - country code

- Next 2 characters - location code (if 8 digits, this is missed out)

- Last 3 characters - branch code, optional but often included

How to Find Your Bank's SWIFT Code

There are a few ways to locate the SWIFT code for your bank or a specific branch:

1. Check your bank statements or documentation from your bank - it is often listed there.

2. Visit your bank's website and look on the "Contact Us" pages or pages with branch details to see if SWIFT codes are listed.

3. Call your bank's customer service line and ask them for the SWIFT code for international wires.

4. Use an online SWIFT code lookup tool by searching "[Your Bank Name] SWIFT code".

Having an accurate SWIFT code is crucial for ensuring international wire transfers go through properly. Most banks require this code to accept wire transfers from overseas.