What is IFSC (Indian Financial System Code) Code?

Last updated on April 22nd, 2025 at 03:36 pm

One of the key secrets behind every electronic transaction in India is the IFSC Code, or Indian Financial System Code. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about the IFSC Code, from its definition to how it works. Read on for more details below!

What is IFSC Code?

The IFSC (Indian Financial System Code) is a unique code used in India's banking system. This code helps identify the banks and branches involved in electronic transactions in India. The IFSC code is crucial to ensure that funds are transferred correctly and to the right branch.

IFSC Format

The IFSC (Indian Financial System Code) is a unique 11-digit code used in electronic financial transactions in India. The IFSC format includes the following components:

1. First 4 Letters (Alphabetic Characters): Represent the bank code, derived from the initials of the bank's name. For example, "SBIN" for State Bank of India.
2. Fifth Character (Digit 0): Always a "0," reserved for future use.
3. Last 6 Characters (Digits or Letters): Represent the branch code and can consist of a combination of numbers and/or letters. Example: 001234.

Read Also: What is IBAN Code? Definition, How to Check and Differences

Example of IFSC Code

1. IFSC Code for State Bank of India (SBI), Mumbai Main Branch:

Code: SBIN0000300 Explanation: "SBIN" represents the bank code for State Bank of India. "0000" is the branch code (e.g., code 0300 in this example).

2. IFSC Code for ICICI Bank, Bangalore Main Branch:

Code: ICIC0000011 Explanation: "ICIC" is the bank code for ICICI Bank. "0000" is the branch code (e.g., code 0011 in this example).

Each IFSC code has a consistent format, where the first 4 letters represent the bank's code, the fifth digit is always "0," and the last 6 characters represent the branch code. The branch code can be a combination of numbers and/or letters, depending on the bank's requirements.

Features of IFSC Code

IFSC Code ensure transparency and accuracy in electronic financial transactions in India. The code allows for the precise identification of the bank and branch, facilitating secure and efficient fund transfers.

Unique to Each Branch

The IFSC code is unique to each bank branch. No two branches have the same IFSC code. This helps distinguish one branch from another.

Read Also: The most complete list of bank codes for financial transactions

Supports Electronic Fund Transfers

The IFSC code is used in various electronic fund transfer methods like NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS. It plays an essential role in facilitating online bank transfers.

1. Identifying Specific Branches

Every character in the IFSC code carries significant meaning. The first four characters identify the bank, the fifth character is always "0," and the last six characters identify the specific branch of the bank.

Reduces Transfer Errors

IFSC codes help minimize errors during online fund transfers. Since each bank branch has its own unique IFSC code, the risk of misallocating funds is greatly reduced.

How Does the IFSC Code Work?

The IFSC code is used during electronic fund transfers, such as RTGS, NEFT, and IMPS. When sending money, the IFSC code of the recipient's bank is required to ensure the funds reach the intended branch.

Read Also: What are Branch Codes? How to Find and Complete List

How to Find IFSC Code?

If you're wondering where to find the IFSC code for making a banking transaction, don’t worry! Here are some steps to help you find the IFSC code:

1. Check Your Bank Book: The IFSC code is often printed on one of the initial pages of your passbook.
2. Check Your Cheque Book: If you have a cheque book, you will find the IFSC code printed on the bottom of the cheque.
3. Use Google Search: You can search for the IFSC code by typing the bank name and branch location in a search engine like Google. For example, "IFSC Code (Bank Name) (Branch Location)."
4. Visit the Bank’s Website: Many banks provide an IFSC code lookup tool on their official website. You can visit the bank's website and look for an option to "Search IFSC Code."

By following these steps, you can easily find your bank's IFSC code, making your financial transactions more efficient and smoother. 

Read Also: What is a Bank Sort Code? Definition, Function and How to Find It

IFSC Code List

The IFSC Code list contains a complete list of IFSC codes for various banks and branches across India. This table includes essential information required when performing financial transactions.

bank	IFSC
HDFC Bank	HDFC0000128
Citibank	CITI0000003
Axis Bank	UTIB0000400
HSBC Bank	HSBC0400002
Punjab National Bank	PUNB0112000
IDBI Bank	IBKL0NEFT01
Yes Bank	YESB0CMSNOC
Induslnd Bank	INDB0000018
State Bank of India	SBIN00CARDS

Before proceeding with any transaction, make sure to verify the IFSC code you are using! To ensure the accuracy of the IFSC code, you can click the following link to validate it: Validate IFSC Code

Now that you have a deeper understanding of the IFSC code, you know that the IFSC code is a crucial component of financial transactions in India. To send money to india, you can use Easylink as a platform for international money transfers.