Glossary · UK
What is Sort Code?
A six-digit number, shown as three pairs, that identifies a specific UK bank and branch for domestic payments.
Full Definition
A sort code is a six-digit number, conventionally written as three pairs (for example 12-34-56), that identifies the specific bank and branch a UK current account is held with. It is used alongside an eight-digit account number to route domestic payments -- Faster Payments, standing orders, Direct Debits and BACS transfers -- to the correct account, and both numbers together are what you give someone to be paid into your account or to set up a Direct Debit. Sort codes were originally tied to a physical branch, but most banks now allocate them by product or region rather than an actual branch counter, so the sort code no longer reliably tells you where the nearest branch is. For international transfers, a UK sort code and account number are combined with a bank code into the UK's IBAN, and a sort code alone is not enough to receive money from abroad -- the sender's bank will usually also need a SWIFT/BIC code. Because a sort code and account number together grant no ability to withdraw money (only to receive it or collect a Direct Debit you have authorised), sharing them to be paid is normal and safe, unlike sharing a card number or PIN.