Bank sort codes

Here you will find information on the bank sort code file and on the bank sort code update service. You can also download the bank sort code files.

General information

In line with an agreement between the Bundesbank and the the German banking industry, domestic payment service providers that operate in the field of payments are distinguished by means of bank sort codes. The Bundesbank is responsible for the allocation, modification and deletion of bank sort codes.

The official bank sort code update service for payment service providers is available via secure download from the Deutsche Bundesbank’s ExtraNet. Additionally, the Bundesbank posts the bank sort code file in a non-binding manner on the internet. When using the bank sort code file, please observe the points contained in the disclaimer.

We offer a free e-mail service to inform you about new files and to provide you with other important information regarding bank sort codes. Click on the following link if you are interested in signing up for this service.

The use of up-to-date bank sort codes is one of the key prerequisites  for the smooth settlement of payments in Germany.

Payment service providers are required to notify the Bundesbank of any additions, deletions and modifications to the bank sort code file and to the interbank tape using the appropriate form. Payment service providers may use the form provided here:

The applications for the bank sort code file should be completed and printed out by the payment service providers and submitted, if applicable through their central institution, to the appropriate branch of the Bundesbank. The notifications of changes to the interbank tape should be submitted - in the same manner as stated above - to the DG-Verlag in Wiesbaden, the Bank-Verlag in Cologne, or the appropriate Bundesbank branch.

Bank sort code guide line

The agreements reached between the German banking industry and the Bundesbank on the structure of bank sort codes, the basic policy concerning the allocation of bank sort codes and the structure and management of the bank sort code file are documented in the bank sort code guideline. Payment service providers must observe the regulations pertaining to the bank sort code guideline when completing the applications.

For all other users of the bank sort code file, the structure of the bank sort code, as well as the structure of the bank sort code file is summarised in an information sheet. In the annex to this information sheet you will find, amongst other things, an overview of the new record structure.

• Bank sort code guide line

Updates

As agreed with the central associations of the German banking industry, the bank sort code file has been updated on a quarterly basis on the Monday following the first Saturday in March, June, September and December. The files containing the current valid data are available on the German page of the website.

Contact us

Please bear in mind that enquiries about the bank sort code files addressed to the Bundesbank by e-mail will only be answered if the full address and telephone number of the party inquiring is given.

• Deutsche Bundesbank
• Z 200
• Postfach 10 06 02
• 60006 Frankfurt am Main
• Germany
•  
• +49 69 9566 8067
• +49 69 9566 50 80 67
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