A sort code is a six-digit number that identifies which bank branch holds your account
A sort code is a six-digit number formatted as three pairs separated by hyphens—for example, 20-17-80. It tells the banking system which specific branch of which bank you use. When you send money to someone or receive a payment, the sort code routes that money to the right place. Without it, a transfer can go to the wrong account or fail entirely.
Sort codes are used primarily in the UK, Ireland, and a few other countries. If you bank in the United States, you will use a routing number instead, which serves the same purpose but is nine digits long. If you bank elsewhere, your country's banking system will have its own equivalent.
You need your sort code whenever you set up a direct deposit, make a bank transfer, or give someone your account details for a payment. It works alongside your account number—the sort code identifies the branch, and the account number identifies your specific account within that branch.
Key Takeaways
- A sort code is a six-digit number that identifies your bank branch and is required for any transfer into or out of your account.
- Sort codes are formatted as three pairs of digits separated by hyphens, such as 20-17-80.
- You can find your sort code on your debit card, bank statements, or by contacting your bank directly.
- Providing an incorrect sort code will cause a payment to fail or reach the wrong account, so double-check before confirming any transfer.
- Sort codes are used in the UK and Ireland; other countries use different systems like routing numbers in the US.
Where to find your sort code
Your sort code appears in several places. The easiest is your debit card—it is printed on the front alongside your account number, usually in the bottom left corner. On a paper bank statement, it appears at the top or in the account details section. Your online banking portal or mobile app will also display it under account information or settings.
If you cannot find it anywhere, call your bank's customer service line. They will confirm your sort code over the phone. Some banks also print it on cheques, though cheques are less common now. Make sure you are looking at the right sort code if you have multiple accounts with the same bank—each account may have a different code depending on which branch holds it.
How sort codes work in a payment
When you make a bank transfer, you provide the recipient's sort code and account number. The sending bank uses the sort code to route the payment through the banking network to the correct receiving bank and branch. The receiving bank then uses the account number to deposit the money into the right account.
The process usually takes one to three working days, depending on the time of day you send it and whether the receiving bank processes it immediately. If you provide the wrong sort code, the payment may be rejected before it leaves your bank, or it may reach a different bank entirely. Some banks have systems that check whether the sort code and account number match before allowing the transfer; others do not, which is why accuracy is your responsibility.
International transfers use a different system called SWIFT codes or IBAN numbers, not sort codes. If you are sending money outside the UK or Ireland, ask your bank which code you need.
What happens if you use the wrong sort code
If you provide an incorrect sort code, the payment will either fail at your bank or arrive at the wrong bank branch. If it fails, your bank will usually reject it and return the money to your account within a few days. You will then need to resubmit with the correct code.
If the payment reaches the wrong bank but the account number does not exist there, that bank will typically send it back. However, if the account number happens to exist at the wrong branch, the money may be deposited into someone else's account. This is rare but possible, which is why you should always verify the sort code before sending a large payment.
If you discover money went to the wrong account, contact your bank immediately. They can attempt to recover it, but the process is slow and not always successful. The receiving bank must contact the account holder and ask them to return the funds voluntarily, which they may refuse to do.
Sort codes versus account numbers
A sort code and an account number are two separate pieces of information that work together. The sort code identifies the bank branch; the account number identifies your specific account within that branch. You need both to complete a transfer. Providing only one is not enough.
Your account number is usually 8 digits long, though this varies by bank. Some banks also use a check digit system to verify that the account number is valid. When you give someone your details for a payment, always provide both the sort code and the account number, and confirm that both are correct before the payment is sent.
Sort codes for different types of accounts
Most personal bank accounts have a sort code. Business accounts, savings accounts, and current accounts all use sort codes. If you have multiple accounts with the same bank, each one may have the same sort code if they are held at the same branch, or different codes if they are held at different branches.
Some specialist accounts, such as investment accounts or foreign currency accounts, may use different sort codes or may not use sort codes at all. If you are unsure which code to use for a particular account, check your statements or contact your bank. Using the wrong code for the wrong account type can cause delays or failed transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find someone else's sort code?
No, sort codes are not public information. You can only find your own sort code from your bank statements, debit card, or by contacting your bank. If you need to send money to someone, they must provide you with their sort code directly.
Do I need a sort code to receive money?
Yes. The person sending you money needs your sort code and account number to complete the transfer. Make sure you give them both pieces of information and confirm they have written them down correctly before they send the payment.
What if my bank branch closed?
If your branch closed, your account may have been transferred to another branch with a new sort code. Check your most recent statement or contact your bank to confirm your current sort code. You will need to update it with anyone who sends you regular payments, such as your employer.
Is a sort code the same as a routing number?
No. Sort codes are used in the UK and Ireland and are six digits long. Routing numbers are used in the United States and are nine digits long. They serve the same purpose—identifying your bank branch—but are not interchangeable.
Can I use the same sort code for all my payments?
Yes, if all your accounts are held at the same branch. However, if you have accounts at different branches or with different banks, each account will have its own sort code. Always use the sort code that matches the account you are sending from or receiving into.