What is Bank Branch Code in IFSC Code?

IFSC code is an important banking code used for online money transfers in India. Many users know that IFSC code is required for NEFT, RTGS and other bank transfers, but they may not know which part of the IFSC code identifies the bank branch.

What is bank branch code in IFSC code
The last six characters of an IFSC code usually help identify the bank branch.

In this guide, you will learn what bank branch code means in IFSC code, how IFSC code format works and why you should verify branch details before sending money.

Table of Contents

What is IFSC Code?

IFSC stands for Indian Financial System Code. It is an 11-character alpha-numeric code used to identify a specific bank branch for electronic money transfers in India.

IFSC code is commonly required when adding a beneficiary for NEFT, RTGS or account-based bank transfers. It helps the banking system route money to the correct bank branch.

IFSC Code Format Explained

An IFSC code has 11 characters. The format is usually divided into three parts:

AAAA0BBBBBB
  • First 4 characters: Bank code
  • 5th character: Usually zero
  • Last 6 characters: Branch code

This format helps identify both the bank and the specific branch connected with the IFSC code.

What is Bank Branch Code in IFSC Code?

The bank branch code in an IFSC code usually refers to the last six characters of the IFSC code. This part helps identify the specific branch of a bank.

While the first four characters identify the bank, the branch code helps identify the exact branch location. This is why two branches of the same bank usually have different IFSC codes.

Which Part of IFSC Code Shows Branch Code?

In a standard IFSC code, the last six characters are usually used as the branch identifier.

IFSC PartMeaningExample
First 4 charactersBank codeABCD
5th characterUsually zero0
Last 6 charactersBranch code123456

If an IFSC code looks like ABCD0123456, then ABCD represents the bank code, 0 is the fifth character and 123456 represents the branch code.

Example of Bank Branch Code in IFSC

Here is a simple example using a sample IFSC code:

IFSC Code: ABCD0123456

Bank Code: ABCD
5th Character: 0
Branch Code: 123456

This is only a sample format. Do not use sample IFSC codes for real transactions. Always verify the actual IFSC code and branch details before making a money transfer.

Why Branch Code is Important?

The branch code is important because it helps identify the correct bank branch. If the branch code is incorrect, the IFSC code may point to a different branch or may not match the beneficiary details.

Before sending money, users should check whether the IFSC code matches the correct bank name, branch name, address, district and state.

  • It helps identify the exact branch.
  • It supports electronic fund transfer routing.
  • It helps avoid branch mismatch.
  • It helps users verify bank branch details.

Bank Code vs Branch Code in IFSC

Bank code and branch code are different parts of the IFSC code. The bank code identifies the bank, while the branch code helps identify the specific branch.

PointBank CodeBranch Code
Position in IFSCFirst 4 charactersLast 6 characters
PurposeIdentifies the bankIdentifies the branch
ExampleABCD123456
Changes by branch?Usually same for same bankUsually different for different branches

This is why two branches of the same bank may have the same first four characters but different last six characters in their IFSC codes.

How to Check Branch Details from IFSC Code

You can check branch details from IFSC code by using an IFSC lookup tool. A correct search result may show bank name, branch name, address, district, state and MICR code if available.

You can use IFSCODE.IN to search IFSC codes, MICR codes and bank branch details across India.

Always match the bank and branch details before using an IFSC code for a transaction.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While checking branch code in IFSC code, avoid these common mistakes:

  • Using a sample IFSC code for real transfer.
  • Typing the IFSC code incorrectly.
  • Ignoring branch name mismatch.
  • Assuming account number alone can identify IFSC code.
  • Using old branch details without verification.
  • Confusing IFSC code with MICR code.

FAQs About Bank Branch Code in IFSC Code

What is branch code in IFSC code?

The branch code in an IFSC code usually refers to the last six characters. It helps identify the specific bank branch.

How many characters are in an IFSC code?

An IFSC code has 11 characters. The first four characters represent the bank, the fifth character is usually zero and the last six characters identify the branch.

Is bank code the same as branch code?

No. Bank code and branch code are different. Bank code identifies the bank, while branch code identifies the specific branch.

Can two branches have the same IFSC code?

Usually, different branches have different IFSC codes. Users should always verify the branch name and address before using any IFSC code.

Can IFSC code change?

Yes, IFSC code may change due to bank merger, branch relocation, branch closure or internal bank updates. Always verify details before transfer.

Final Words

The bank branch code in IFSC code usually refers to the last six characters of the IFSC code. This part helps identify the specific bank branch connected with the code.

Before sending money, do not rely only on the IFSC code format. Always verify the bank name, branch name, address, district, state and beneficiary details carefully.

Disclaimer: IFSCODE.IN is an independent informational platform. Users should verify important banking details directly with the respective bank before making any transaction.

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