What is SORT Code?
A SORT Code is a number code, which is used by British and Irish banks. These codes have six digits, and they are divided into three different pairs, such as 12-34-56.
These codes, like many other bank codes, are used to identify the location of the bank where the account is held. The first two digits are usually bank identifiers. However, in some cases, the first code may describe the bank as well.
It must be noted that the SORT code of a bank is integrated and encoded in the IBAN number of the account but not in the BIC codes of the account. A SORT code is used by banks to identify and route the money transfers to the respective bank and account.
SORT codes are also called NSC or National SORT Code in Ireland and are regulated by the IPSO (Irish Payment Services Organization). A SORT Code in Ireland begins with the digit “9”.
If a person needs to find the SORT code for their bank account they can look it up on their bank statements, their bank-issued cards; and some have the SORT code integrated on their cheque books as well.
SORT codes are only used in England and Ireland. These codes are used to identify banks and their respective locations within the country itself. SORT codes, although used in both countries in a similar manner, are regulated by different bodies in Ireland and England. These codes are not to be confused with SWIFT codes.