The six digit sortcode is normally displayed as three, two digit numbers. The sort code, which is a six-digit number, is usually formatted as three pairs of numbers, for example 12-34-56. All paper instruments presented to the clearinghouse must be MICR-encoded. Some branches have subbranches, also know as non-accounting branches. The simple search facility enables you to check bank sort codes, branch addresses, contact details and BIC codes, as well as identifying which banks and institutions accept faster payments.
Although there is a strong correlation between BIC Codes and sort codes, sort codes are not explicitly encoded into BIC codes.