What is a sort code? UK bank codes explained in plain English
By SendPay Business · · 2 min read
A sort code is the six-digit number, written like 12-34-56, that identifies a UK bank and branch. Together with an eight-digit account number, it tells a payment exactly which account to go to.
What the digits mean
The first digits usually identify the bank, and the rest the branch or the part of the bank that holds the account. Many app-only banks and money apps have their own sort codes, even without branches.
Sort code, account number and IBAN
For payments within the UK, a sort code and account number are all you need. For payments from abroad, the payer usually needs your IBAN, which contains your sort code and account number inside it, plus a country code and check digits.
Confirmation of Payee
When you set up a new payee, most UK banks check that the name you enter matches the name on the account. If it doesn't match, you'll see a warning before you send, which helps stop mistakes and scams.
If you run a money app
Customers expect UK account details they can share to get paid. SendPay platforms include GBP, EUR and USD accounts, powered by licensed partners.
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This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. PayPal, Patreon and Substack are named as reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.