Global payments
Posted on Nov 10, 2025
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Have you ever been asked about sort codes while filing in payment details? You must have thought, “Wait, what’s that again?” And yes, you’re not the only one.
Banking terms like sort code, SWIFT code, and IBAN often sound more complex than they actually are. But once you understand them, these terms make perfect sense. Especially if you deal with domestic and international transfers or business payments.
In this guide, we’ll simplify everything you need to know about sort codes. We will see how to find them, how a sort code checker works. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to look and how to verify your banking details confidently.
What is a sort code?
A sort code is a six-digit number used in the UK and Ireland to identify a specific bank and branch. It is usually written as XX-XX-XX.
Think of it as a routing address for your money. Sort Code tells the system which bank and which branch your account belongs to.
In simple terms:
Your account number identifies you.
Your sort code identifies where your account lives.
Together, they make sure payments land in the right place — quickly and accurately.
A sort code checker is an online tool that helps verify whether a given sort code is valid and corresponds to a real bank and branch. It’s a small but powerful way to prevent payment errors.
How does a sort code work?
When you make a domestic payment, your bank uses both the sort code and account number to route your money.
Here’s how the system works behind the scenes:
Branch identification – Each sort code represents a specific branch. The first digits represent the bank, the next digits the region, and the final digits the branch.
Routing payments – Sort codes help the banking system identify the destination branch before depositing funds into the right account number.
Verification – Modern banks and fintech platforms use sort code checkers to ensure accuracy before a transaction is processed.
Domestic only – Sort codes work within the UK/Ireland banking system; for cross-border payments, SWIFT or IBAN codes are used instead.
How to find your bank sort code? Step-by-step guide
If you’ve ever wondered, “Where can I find my sort code?” — here’s your quick guide:
Step 1: Check your bank statement
Your sort code is usually printed near your account number on your paper or digital statements. Log in to your online banking portal and check the “Account Details” or “Statements” section.
Step 2: Look at your debit or credit card
Many banks print the sort code on the front or back of your card. However, it might represent your bank’s head office rather than your local branch, so always confirm before sharing.
Step 3: Visit your bank’s website
Most banks list branch sort codes under their “Find a branch” or “Branch Locator” sections. Simply type your branch name or city, and you’ll see the sort code instantly.
Step 4: Contact your bank directly
Still can’t find your sort code? Just call or message your bank’s customer support team. They can confirm the correct sort code for your branch or account.
Step 5: Use an online sort code checker
Use a verified online tool to cross-check your sort code. Enter the six digits, and the tool will tell you which bank and branch it belongs to — perfect when you’re verifying someone else’s banking details.
Pro Tip: Always double-check the sort code before confirming a payment. A 10-second check can prevent days of delay or failed transfers.
FAQs (Sort Code Checker)
What is a sort code checker?
A sort code checker is a tool that verifies the accuracy of the sort code and matches the correct bank details. A sort checker is an important tool, and it is integrated by many banks to prevent errors and delays.
Can a sort code be used for international payments?
No, a sort code is simply made for all the domestic payments based in the UK and Ireland. It cannot be used for international payments. Usually, IBAN and SWIFT codes are used for international payments.
What happens if I enter the wrong sort code?
By entering the wrong sort code, your domestic payment processing might get delayed. Before hitting the “send” button, always confirm the sort code with a sort code checker tool.
Do all UK accounts have sort codes?
Yes. Every account in the UK and Ireland is linked to a specific sort code that identifies its branch.
Simplify international payments with Infinity
In this fast-moving world of business, managing multiple payments, tracking onvoices, and staying compliant can all get overwhelming at times.
This is where Infinity steps in. Infinity is a modern fintech payment platform built for managing international payments. From creating a multi-currency account to receiving international payments in 50+ currencies, Infinity is built for you.
We help Indian professionals like freelancers, exporters, startup founders, and SMBs receive international payments seamlessly. Here is what we offer:
A virtual multi-currency account that helps you receive payments from 160+ countries.
Lowest platform fee in the market, that is 0.5% (Inclusive of all). This way, you can save the maximum of what you earn.
Zero FX markup. Yes, you read that right. Infinity converts your international payment at live FX rates. This means there are no hidden fees anywhere.
Infinity provides you with instant and free-of-cost FIRA after every successful transaction. This way, you can stay compliant without putting any extra effort.
So, while a sort code checker ensures that your domestic payment is accurate and on track. Similarly, Infinity makes sure that your business's international payment workflow is efficient, transparent, and stress-free. If you’re ready to manage your international finances with a sense of clarity and transparency, Infinity is built for you.
