This article explains what a SWIFT/BIC code is and how to find one so you can accurately pay your international vendors through CashFlow Central. It contains the following sections:
When you pay a vendor outside of the US, banks need a specific "address" to ensure the funds arrive at the right institution. This address is known as a SWIFT code.
What is a SWIFT code?
SWIFT stands for the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication. It is a unique identification code for banks worldwide. You may also see it referred to as a BIC (Business Identifier Code). Both terms refer to the same thing: a series of 8 to 11 characters that tell the banking system exactly where to send your money.
How to read the code
A SWIFT code follows a specific format (AAAA BB CC DDD) to identify the bank’s name, country, and physical location:
- Bank Code (4 characters): Identifies the specific bank.
- Country Code (2 characters): Identifies the country where the bank is located.
- Location Code (2 characters): Identifies the bank’s head office city.
- Branch Code (3 characters): This is optional. If a code is 8 digits long, it refers to the primary office. If it is 11 digits, it refers to a specific local branch.
How to find your vendor’s SWIFT code
To ensure your international payment is delivered without delays, you must enter the correct code in CashFlow Central. You can find this information in a few ways:
- Check the invoice: Most international vendors include their SWIFT/BIC code in the "Payment Instructions" section of their invoice.
- Ask your vendor: If the code isn't on the invoice, contact your vendor directly to confirm their international wire details.
- Use an online lookup: You can verify a bank's code using a reliable directory such as The SWIFT Codes.