Using a bank code, deposits are sent and received over the networks and systems of financial institutions. Bank codes are used differently for some types of transactions and international vs domestic payments.
Our explainer provides a list of bank codes for popular U.S. and international banks.
What is a Bank Code?
An American bank’s routing number (or bank code) is a nine-digit number between two colons on the bottom of a check. From a global perspective, a bank code takes on a more general meaning due to the format and information that differ by country. In this post, we’ll dive into the various types of popular bank codes around the globe.
What’s the difference between an account number and a routing number?
Bank routing and account numbers are combined to form the bank code for American financial transactions. At the bottom of each check, you will find both the external bank identification routing number and the bank account number, with the routing number located to the left of the bank account number.
The check number is next to the routing number and bank account number. Using Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR), a computer can automatically read the numbers.
The routing number is printed in a fractional format on the top right corner of the check. The fraction format is used as a backup number if MICR printing cannot be read.
MICR also prints a different routing number on a deposit slip for an internal bank routing number.
IBAN Number
International bank account numbers (IBANs) are stored in the standard format of up to 32 alphanumeric characters. They are used internationally (although not in the United States or Canada) to identify foreign bank accounts and facilitate cross-border transfers, such as wire transfers. An IBAN has two check digits, a country code, and a lengthy bank account number.
Is there a way to find an iBAN number for a bank branch?
Bank statements and online/mobile banking accounts can provide you with your IBAN number. In addition, you can find your IBAN by visiting your branch or by calling your bank’s website.
SWIFT Code
Money transfer between banks using a SWIFT code is common around the world. An eight to 11-digit code of alphanumerics, the SWIFT code or Bank Identifier Code (BIC), identifies the bank, the county where the bank resides, the head office address, and optionally a specific branch.
Sort Code
The Sort code identifies bank locations in England and Ireland. Sort codes are composed of six digits separated by hyphens and consist of three sets of two numbers, each set apart by one digit. NSC stands for National Sort Code, the Ireland sort code, and the NSC starts with 9 in the code.
To make international bank transfers, it is necessary to include the sort code in the IBAN code.
IFSC Code
For domestic and foreign transfers between banks in India, IFSC codes are used as bank codes.
Is there a way to find an IFSC code for a bank branch?
You can find the IFSC code of a bank branch in India by clicking here, entering the bank name and the state, then selecting the district, then selecting the addition of your bank to find the IFSC code, or you can find the bank branch name from IFSC code in India by clicking here, entering the IFSC code, and clicking “Search”.
MICR Code
A MICR code is also used for Electronic Clearing in India and the IFSC. It consists of three digits for the City Code, three digits for the Bank Code, and three digits for the Branch Code, totalling nine. MICR prints on checks with magnetic ink character recognition for automatic electronic reading.
Is there a way to find a MICR code for a bank branch?
You can find MICR codes of bank branches in India by clicking here, selecting your bank name, your state, then your district, and finally the addition of your bank. You may also search for the bank branch name in India by entering the MICR code and clicking “Search”.
BSR code
The BSR (Basic Statistical Returns) code is primarily used in the banking industry. Chalan identification numbers (CIN) are based on BSR codes. Every challan will have a CIN to identify the true challan, and all Indian banks receive the BSR code from the Reserve Bank of India. These characters, which humans can also read, are read by a special machine.
Is there a way to find a BSR code for a bank branch?
You can locate BSR codes of bank branches in India by clicking on the link below, selecting your bank, selecting your state, and establishing your district. You can also find bank branch names by clicking on the link, entering the BSR code and clicking the “Search” button.
BIC code
The BIC standard is part of ISO 9362, the international standard. Various financial and non-financial institutions require a global identifier to facilitate the automated processing of information, defined in this standard as a universal identifier code (BIC).
Non-connected BICs do not have access to the SWIFT network and are used solely for reference. Connected BICs have access to the SWIFT network and are used for reference purposes only.
Is there a way to find a BIC code for a bank branch?
An identifier code used to identify banks worldwide is called a Bank Identifier Code (BIC). If you want to receive a SWIFT payment, someone needs a BIC, and BICs are sometimes called SWIFT codes because of this.
Nationwide’s BIC is NAIAGB21.
Intermediary Bank (HSBC) BIC is MIDLGB22.