SWIFT Code Guide

Before you send money: limits of a format check

A format check does not show that a BIC exists, is active or belongs to the right bank. Practical points for confirming payment details, in plain English.

Official source: SWIFT, BIC policy (20 January 2023). Checked

1 min. read · Review scheduled for 2027-01-19

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What a format check shows

It shows that the code has an allowed length and allowed characters, and splits it into parts (SWIFT). That is all.

What it cannot show

  • That the code exists. Many well-formed codes are not assigned.
  • That it is active. The policy covers a deactivation process, so codes can stop being used (SWIFT).
  • That it belongs to the bank you mean. Only the bank, or an official directory, can confirm that.
  • That the account details are right. The BIC is one part of the details.

Practical points (our general advice, not from the sources)

  1. Take the BIC from the recipient's invoice, contract or bank website, not from a message that arrived unexpectedly.
  2. If payment details change, call the recipient on a number you already had.
  3. Ask your own bank whether it can check the details before you send a large amount.
  4. Keep a copy of the details you used.

Left out on purpose

We do not give fraud advice beyond these points, and we do not name banks or services.