What is a sort code and how do I find mine?

What is a sort code?

The sort code, also known as the branch sort code, is essentially a bank and branch identification number. For example, for the Société Générale branch at Jean Macé, Lyon, the sort code is the same for all customers of this bank branch.

A bank's sort code is part of the overall account details or IBAN (International Bank Account Number). The account details contain the same elements:

• bank code

• sort code

• account number

• RIB key

Some of these elements are identical for customers where they belong to a particular bank or branch. Therefore, all Crédit Agricole customers have the same bank code. All customers of Crédit Agricole's branch at Pantin have the same bank code and sort code. Finally, the account number and RIB key are different for all customers. These are unique elements for each account opened with a banking establishment.

Sort codes have an international element. All countries also use this number as part of their IBAN. The amount of numbers used can differ from country to country. For example, in the United Kingdom sort codes are made up of six numbers.

What is a sort code used for?

For a bank, the sort code has several uses. Firstly, it enables transactions to be performed, such as:

• transfers within France

• transfers in the SEPA region 

• transfers abroad 

• setting up a direct debit

The sort code is also essential for sending or receiving a transfer. It's part of the information required to request a banking operation.

It's also possible to identify a bank using a sort code. The code is linked to a specific branch and is used to identify the bank as well as the branch that holds the account in question. The sort code enables differentiation between branches of the same bank.

Where can you find your sort code?

To locate your sort code, look at your bank details or IBAN:

• From your account details: The account details (23 digits) are made up of a bank code first (five digits), then the sort code (five digits), the account number (11 digits) and then the RIB key (two digits).

• From your IBAN: Using an IBAN is much easier than your bank details. For the IBAN, count from the 10th number and then take the next five digits.

You can find your bank details or IBAN in several places, in particular on your statement, cheque book or by accessing your bank's mobile app or customer login area.

Otherwise, you can also ask a bank staff member to help you find your sort code.

Sort code examples

Here are several examples² of sort codes with varying banks and branch locations:

• CIC Bourg-en-Bresse: 18034

• LCL Cannes Croisette: 03271

• BNP Paribas La Rochelle Minimes: 02288

• Crédit Agricole Calais Lafayette : 00031

• Société Générale Dole: 00755

• Crédit Mutuel Blois: 37160

• HSBC Caen: 00290

• Caisse d’Épargne Sélestat Centre: 09017

Want more information on banking news or international payments? Check out our blog. WorldRemit is a platform specialised in money transfers abroad and provides articles related to finance to help you in your everyday life. These articles may be of interest:

• How can you choose the right bank?

This article has been provided for informational purposes. It may not be considered as legal or financial advice. If you require financial or legal advice, consult an advisor or specialised lawyer.