A CLABE number is a banking code that identifies Mexican bank accounts. It helps ensure that when you send money to Mexico, the funds go into the correct account.
This guide will explain what CLABE numbers in Mexico are, how to find them, and how Western Union supports CLABE transfers. By the end, you’ll know how to send money to Mexico and get it securely in the hands of your recipient.
Key takeaways
- CLABE numbers are banking codes used to identify specific Mexican bank accounts.
- The CLABE number includes 18 digits that identify the bank, branch location, and account.
- If you want to transfer money to a Mexican bank account, you need to include the CLABE number.
- You can find the CLABE number for a Mexican account on the banking statement, inside the online banking website, or by contacting the bank.
What is a CLABE number?
CLABE stands for Clave Bancaria Estandarizada, or “standardized banking code” in Spanish. A CLABE number is an 18-digit banking code that specifies the bank, city, and account number of a Mexican bank account. This code is mandatory for making interbank transfers, such as payments, international wire transfers, and direct deposits to a bank account in Mexico. You’ll need to know the CLABE number of an account before you can initiate the transfer.
Each CLABE is a unique number, so no two accounts share the same code. CLABE numbers are usually used for checking accounts.
CLABE number structure
A CLABE number is made up of 18 digits in a specific order:
- The first three digits are the bank code, identifying which bank holds the account.
- The next three digits identify the branch location where the account was opened.
- The following 11 digits are the account number.
- The last digit is the check digit, or control digit, which verifies that the rest of the code is accurate.
Understanding terms: CLABE vs. Account number vs. SWIFT
A CLABE number is not the same as an account number. Although it does contain an account number within it, a CLABE number also contains digits identifying the bank and branch location of the account, while account numbers do not.
CLABE numbers are also different from SWIFT numbers. A CLABE is unique to Mexico, and it’s required to transfer money to a Mexican account. SWIFT, on the other hand, is a business identifier code (BIC) used for cross-border transfers. If you want to send money internationally and the recipient is in Mexico, you may need both SWIFT and CLABE numbers.
Why CLABE numbers matter in Mexico
Mexican banks have required CLABE for transfers since 2004. These standardized banking codes guarantee that your transaction includes the correct bank registration so you can successfully send money between accounts. Without a CLABE number, there’s a risk that an error could cause money to originate from or transfer to the wrong bank account.
CLABE numbers cut down on account number mistakes, reduce the number of rejected transactions for incomplete data, and validate the transaction both at the originating bank and the receiving bank for additional security. They are an important part of interbank transactions in Mexico.
How to find your CLABE number
If you want to send or receive money to a Mexican bank account or use the SPEI payment system, you’ll need a CLABE number. The account owner will need to provide the CLABE number directly to the sender or beneficiary to complete the bank transfer details, along with name and address.
To find a CLABE number:
- Locate it on a bank statement.
- Find it in your online banking portal.
- Contact your bank to get it.
- Look for it on official banking correspondence.
Send money to Mexico with Western Union
CLABE numbers are essential for Mexican bank transfers. With Western Union and your recipient’s CLABE number, you can send money directly to their account. Brighten their day, help cover bills, or make a payment for services.
To send money on the go, use Western Union’s international money transfer app for secure, encrypted transfers. You can also send money online or stop by one of our agent locations. Don’t forget to check the USD to MXN exchange rate to see exactly how much your recipient will receive in pesos, the Mexican currency. Always confirm the CLABE number with the transfer recipient before sending to avoid delays.
FAQs
No, a CLABE number is a Mexico-specific standardized account identifier, while IBAN is a code used for international transfers, especially in Europe. When sending money to an account in Mexico, use CLABE. When sending money overseas to Europe, use IBAN.
You can request the CLABE number directly from the person you are sending money to. If they don’t know their CLABE number, they can find it by checking their bank account statement, logging into their online banking portal, or by contacting their bank.
Yes, you send money to a bank account in Mexico by performing an interbank transfer, as long as you know the recipient’s name, address, and CLABE. For fast, secure transfers to Mexico, send money online, use the Western Union mobile app, or visit a local agent.
