IFSC code
What is an IFSC code?
An IFSC code, short for Indian Financial System Code, facilitates online money transfers in India.
It is used for various online transactions such as National Electronic Funds Transfers (NEFT), Immediate Payment Services (IMPS), and Real-Time Gross Settlements (RTGS).
Example of an IFSC code
An IFSC code is a 11-digit alphanumeric code representing the bank name and branch. The fifth character in the code is a zero and is reserved for future use.
GB
Bank code
0
Consistent number
12345678
Branch code
Where to find your IFSC code?
This code is usually found at the end of your bank’s address, located in the leaves of your cheque book.
You can also search online for IFSC finders or on the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) website.
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FAQs
What is the full form of IFSC?
IFSC code is short for Indian Financial System Code.
How many digits are there in IFSC code?
IFSC code is an 11-character alphanumeric code.
What is IFSC code and how does it work?
The IFSC code is crucial for electronic money transfers like RTGS, NEFT, and CFMS. It's a unique identifier required for moving funds from one bank account to another within India. No two branches, even if they're part of the same bank, share the same code.
This code is structured in a specific way: the initial 4 digits represent the bank, the final 6 signify the branch, and there's a zero placed as the 5th character.
Who creates IFSC code?
The Reserve Bank of India has complete authority to generate, alter, allot or cancel IFSC Code. The central bank also keeps track of these codes for different bank branches to ensure a seamless online fund transfer experience.
How to find IFSC code?
Your IFSC code can be easily located on the cheque book or passbook issued by your bank. Alternatively, you can contact your bank branch through their helpline number to obtain this information. Another option is to use a search engine such as Google to find your bank's IFSC code.
Is the SWIFT code the same as an IFSC code?
No, the SWIFT code and the IFSC code are not the same. The Indian Financial System Code (IFSC) is used for transactions made through Real-Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT), or Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) within India.
In contrast, the SWIFT code is used to facilitate international financial transactions. Another distinguishing factor is their length - a SWIFT code consists of 8-11 characters, while an IFSC code is always 11 characters long.
Is it safe to give my bank IFSC code to someone?
Yes, it is generally safe to give your IFSC code to someone. The IFSC code is used to facilitate electronic money transfers between banks in India. It's a unique code that identifies each bank branch participating in these payment systems.
However, while sharing your IFSC code isn't harmful, you should always be cautious and avoid sharing more sensitive banking information such as your account number, PIN, CVV, or OTP with anyone to prevent potential misuse.
Is IFSC code important for money transfer?
Yes, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) gives each bank an IFSC code. This code is needed to transfer money online between two bank accounts. So, if you're sending money, make sure to get the correct IFSC code from the person you are paying.
The IFSC code is used in different types of money transfers like NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS.
What is the difference between bank branch code and IFSC code?
The bank branch code is just a part of the IFSC code. The last six characters of the IFSC code represent the unique code of the bank branch.
Do all banks have same IFSC code?
No. Each bank branch possesses a distinctive code, and no two branches, even if they belong to the same bank, will share the same code ever.
Do all accounts have the same IFSC code?
No, all accounts do not have the same IFSC code. The IFSC code is specific to a bank branch, not an individual account. So, all accounts held at the same branch of a bank will share the same IFSC code. However, accounts in different branches of the same bank will have different IFSC codes.
What is the difference between IFSC and MICR code?
The IFSC is an 11-character alphanumeric code, which distinctly identifies a bank branch involved in the fund transfer system regulated by the RBI.
On the other hand, the MICR Code, a unique nine-digit code, is utilised to identify a bank and its branch participating in the ECS Credit scheme. This code guarantees that the RBI recognizes all banks using cheques for their financial transactions.