Bank Code Guide: What is a Bank Code and Where to Find It

When you send money internationally, you’ll need several pieces of information to ensure your funds reach their destination, including a bank code. A bank identification code is a unique identifier that recognizes specific financial institutions during money transfers. It’s a vital component to sending or receiving money abroad.

Let’s explore why bank codes matter and the different types of codes you may encounter when transferring money across international borders.

Key takeaways

• A bank code is a unique identifier that routes money to the correct financial institution during a domestic or international money transfer.
• Different countries use different bank identification codes, such as SWIFT/BIC, IBAN, routing numbers, and sort codes.
• Entering the wrong bank code can result in delays, failed transfers, or even lost funds, so accuracy is essential.
• You can usually find your bank code on your bank statement, through your online banking platform, or by contacting your bank directly.
• Western Union uses bank codes to support reliable international transfers in over 100 countries.

What is a bank identification code?

Sending or receiving money abroad involves moving funds not just to or from another person, but into different financial systems. Each country and bank has unique structures. Bank codes help bridge those gaps and ensure funds arrive securely.

Bank codes offer routing accuracy, ensuring money goes to the correct bank and the right branch. They also create a common language for international transfers. Bank codes, such as the common global SWIFT/BIC code, help meet global financial regulations and reduce the risk of fraud or failed transfers.

While many countries have adopted SWIFT as part of the framework, it’s not the only type of bank code you can encounter when sending or receiving money.

Types of bank codes

What’s the difference between a SWIFT code versus IBAN? How do you know which code is necessary? Here’s a helpful bank code list that breaks down the most common types, where they’re used, and what they mean:

SWIFT/BIC Code

The SWIFT code, also called a Business Identifier Code (BIC) is an international standard used across more than 200 countries. It helps route your money to the right bank during a cross-border transfer. A SWIFT code typically has 8 or 11 characters and includes the bank, country, and branch.

• Used in: Most countries globally
• Example: HBUKGB4B (for HSBC Bank in the U.K.)

IBAN

Europe, the Middle East, and some Caribbean countries use International Bank Account Numbers (IBAN). It includes the country code and the specific account number, which simplifies identifying an individual’s bank account in international payments. While the format varies by country, most IBANs are between 16 and 34 characters long.

• Used in: EU countries, U.K., UAE, and others
• Example: For a German bank account, the IBAN would include the country code “DE,” two check digits, eight numbers identifying the bank and branch, and ten numbers identifying the account number. DEcc bbbb bbbb aaaa aaaa aa

Routing Number

In the United States, the routing number is a 9-digit code used to identify banks in domestic transfers. You’ll need it when sending money to or from U.S. bank accounts, especially through ACH or wire transfers.

• Used in: United States only
• Example: 021000021 (for JPMorgan Chase in Florida)

Sort Code

A sort code is used in the United Kingdom and Ireland to identify banks and branches for local transfers. It’s a 6-digit number, usually formatted as three pairs (e.g., 14-26-58).

• Used in: United Kingdom and Ireland
• Example: 30-95-42 (for Lloyd’s Bank in Manchester)

Why bank codes matter in money transfers

The bank code might seem like a small detail, but it’s a big deal when transferring money to the right place. Whether sending funds across the country or around the world, entering the correct bank code ensures payment reaches the right financial institution and account.

Bank codes that are missing or incorrect could lead to delayed or returned transfers. Complete failure is also an option. That costs you money, time, and peace of mind. Accurately entering your bank transfer details removes these risks.

Where to find your bank code

So with all this in mind, where do you find your bank code? You’ll typically be able to locate it in one of several places:

• On your bank statement
• Inside your online banking platform or mobile app
• By contacting your bank’s customer service directly

Always check that the code matches the receiving bank’s official details. Even one wrong digit could lead to delayed or rejected transfers.

Send money to banks around the world

Whether it’s supporting friends or family in an emergency or managing finances across borders, Western Union simplifies sending money using the correct bank code. Our global network ensures your funds are routed to the right bank quickly and reliably.

Our international money transfer app lets you send funds to bank accounts in over 100 countries. Enter the required bank code during the transfer process, and we’ll take care of the rest.