How to get the IFSC code from the account number

Understanding IFSC code

Wondering what the IFSC code means? In simple terms, it is an 11-character alphanumeric code that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) assigns to every bank branch that uses electronic fund transfers. It helps identify the exact branch so that your money reaches the intended account without errors. You can easily find the IFSC code on cheque leaves, bank passbooks, or account statements.

The IFSC code is required for every NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS bank transfer, as well as for internet banking, online bill payments, mutual fund investments, and insurance purchases.

MICR code and IFSC code: Both codes help in the smooth transfer of funds but serve different purposes. The Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) code is a 9-digit numeric code printed in magnetic ink on cheques to help banks process and clear cheque transactions quickly and accurately, whereas the IFSC code is used for accurate electronic fund transfers.

Can you get an IFSC code directly from your account number?

You cannot get the IFSC code from the account number. Your account number is unique to you as a customer, but it does not include branch information. To get the IFSC from the account number, you will also need your bank name, branch name, city, or state. Once you have these details, there are several easy ways to track them down.

If you are planning to open a savings account online, it is a good habit to note down your branch's IFSC code right from the start, either from your welcome kit or the bank's website.

How to get the IFSC code from the account number: 7 methods

Here are the most reliable methods to figure out how to get the IFSC code from the account number:

Method 1: Check your bank passbook or account statement

This is one of the simplest ways to get the IFSC code from your account number. The branch IFSC is usually printed on the first page of your passbook alongside your account details. If you receive e-statements, you can also find the IFSC code in the account information section.

Method 2: Find the IFSC code on your cheque book

Every cheque leaf has the IFSC code printed near the bank branch name at the top. Since each cheque book is branch-specific, the IFSC on the cheque is the one linked to your account. This is one of the fastest ways to get an IFSC code for an account number without leaving home.

Method 3: Get the IFSC code via net banking or mobile banking app

Log in to your bank's mobile app or internet banking portal, go to "Account Details" or "Profile", to find your branch name and IFSC listed right there.

Method 4: Use your bank's official website

Banks usually have a branch locator or bank account IFSC finder tool on their website. Enter your bank name, state, city, and branch to instantly obtain the correct code. For example, Axis Bank provides an 'Axis Bank Branch Locator' feature on its homepage to search for branch details. 

Method 5: Use the RBI portal to find the IFSC code

The RBI holds the official database of IFSC codes for all participating bank branches.

Follow these steps:

• Visit the RBI's IFSC/MICR directory.
• Search using your bank name and branch.
• You can also download the complete IFSC directory if required.

This is the most authoritative source available for how to get the IFSC code from the account number.

Method 6: Get IFSC code via SMS banking

Some banks also share the IFSC through SMS banking. You can check the SMS banking number of your bank and the message required to get the IFSC.

Method 7: Contact the bank customer care or visit the branch

Still unsure how to get the IFSC code from the account no.? You can call your bank's helpline or walk into your home branch. After a quick identity check, the bank can help you identify the IFSC linked to your branch.

How to get Axis Bank IFSC code from your account number

For Axis Bank customers specifically, finding the IFSC code is easy through the bank's branch locator tool. Here is how to find the IFSC code of Axis Bank:

• Visit the Axis Bank Branch Locator page.
• Search using your locality or select your state, city, and branch from the drop-down menus.
• Click 'Search' to view the branch details.
• The branch page will display the branch address, contact details, and the corresponding IFSC code.

This is especially useful for customers who want to obtain the IFSC code from the account number without a cheque book or a passbook handy.

Note: If you have ever transferred your savings account online from one city to another, say, a Delhi branch to Mumbai, your account number might have stayed the same, but the IFSC would have changed. The code is branch-specific, not account-specific. You can use the aforementioned methods to know how to get the IFSC code from the account number.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you get the IFSC code from your account number alone?

No. To get the IFSC from the account number, you also need your bank name, branch, state, or district.

2. Is the IFSC code the same for all accounts within one branch?

Yes. IFSC identifies the branch, not individual accounts, so every account holder at the same branch shares the same code.

3. How many characters does an IFSC code have?

An IFSC code is an 11-character alphanumeric code in which the first 4 characters identify the bank, the fifth is always 0, and the next 6 characters identify a specific branch.

4. Where exactly is the IFSC code printed on a cheque?

The IFSC code is usually printed near the bank branch name at the top of every cheque leaf.

5. How can you find your Axis Bank IFSC code online?

Use the Axis Bank Branch Locator on the official website. Search by locality or state/city/branch combination to get the IFSC code of Axis Bank for your home branch.