# 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.

- Canonical URL: https://swiftcodelookup.com/before-you-send-money/
- Source: [SWIFT, BIC policy (20 January 2023)](https://www2.swift.com/knowledgecentre/rest/v1/publications/bic_policy/3.0/bic_policy.pdf)
- Checked: 2026-10-21

## What a format check shows

It shows that the code has an allowed length and allowed characters, and splits it into parts ([SWIFT](https://www2.swift.com/knowledgecentre/rest/v1/publications/bic_policy/3.0/bic_policy.pdf)). 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](https://www2.swift.com/knowledgecentre/rest/v1/publications/bic_policy/3.0/bic_policy.pdf)).
- **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.

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