If you've ever sent money from the US to India, you've seen fields asking for a routing number, SWIFT code, IBAN, or IFSC code. They look similar but serve completely different purposes — and using the wrong one means your money doesn't arrive.
This guide explains the difference between ACH routing numbers and SWIFT codes, when to use each, and how to avoid the most common mistakes.
TL;DR — Key Takeaways
- ACH routing number (9 digits): Used for domestic US transfers (ACH and wire). Identifies a specific US bank.
- SWIFT code (8–11 characters): Used for international wire transfers. Identifies a bank globally.
- IFSC code (11 characters): Used within India's domestic banking system for identifying Indian bank branches.
- For US → India transfers: You need your recipient's IFSC code + account number, not an ACH routing number.
- For receiving USD from US clients: You give them your US ACH routing number + account number (like a Pym virtual account).
What Is an ACH Routing Number?
An ACH routing number is a 9-digit number that identifies a specific US bank or credit union. It's used for:
- ACH transfers: Direct deposits, bill payments, and bank-to-bank transfers within the US.
- Domestic wire transfers: Sending money between US bank accounts.
Every US bank has at least one routing number. Large banks may have multiple routing numbers by state or by type of transfer (ACH vs wire). You can find it on your check (bottom left) or in your bank's online portal.
What Is a SWIFT Code?
A SWIFT code (also called BIC) is an 8–11 character code that identifies a bank internationally. It's used for international wire transfers between countries. Format: AAAA BB CC DDD (bank code, country code, location code, branch code).
Example: ICICINBBXXX (ICICI Bank, India, Mumbai, head office).
Routing Number vs SWIFT Code: Quick Comparison
| ACH Routing Number | SWIFT Code / BIC | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 9 digits | 8–11 characters |
| Used for | Domestic US transfers (ACH, wire) | International wire transfers |
| Scope | US only | Global |
| Identifies | A specific US bank | A bank anywhere in the world |
| Example | 021000021 (JP Morgan Chase) | CHASUS33 (JP Morgan Chase, NY) |
What About IFSC Code?
IFSC (Indian Financial System Code) is an 11-character code used within India to identify specific bank branches. If you're sending money to India, you need the recipient's IFSC code + account number. Format: BBBB0CCCCC (4-letter bank code, 0, 6-digit branch code).
Example: SBIN0001234 (State Bank of India, specific branch).
Which One Do You Need?
| Scenario | What You Need |
|---|---|
| US client paying you (Indian freelancer) via wire | Your bank's SWIFT code + your account number |
| US client paying you via ACH (US virtual account) | Your US routing number + account number |
| You sending money to an Indian bank account | Recipient's IFSC code + account number |
| You sending money within the US | Recipient's routing number + account number |
Common Mistakes
- Using a routing number for an international wire: Won't work. You need a SWIFT code for international transfers.
- Using a SWIFT code for an ACH transfer: Won't work. Use the routing number for domestic US transfers.
- Confusing IFSC with SWIFT: IFSC is for India's domestic system. SWIFT is for international transfers. You may need both for a US→India transfer.
- Using the wrong routing number: Some banks have different routing numbers for ACH vs wire transfers. Check before sending.
How to Find Your Routing Number
- Check: Bottom left corner, 9 digits starting with 0–2.
- Online banking: Account details or direct deposit section.
- Bank's website: Routing number lookup tool.
How to Find a SWIFT Code
- Bank statement: Usually printed on international wire instructions.
- Bank's website: SWIFT/BIC lookup page.
- Online directories: Sites like bank.codes or the SWIFT.com directory.
How Pym Simplifies This
When you receive USD via Pym's virtual account, you get a US routing number and account number — share them with your US client and they can pay you via ACH (free) or wire. No need to give them your Indian bank's SWIFT code. When you convert to INR, Pym handles the IFSC routing to your Indian bank. Sign up free.