Furthermore routing information as specified by ISO 9362 does not contain check digits, so simple errors of transcription were not detectable and it was not possible for a sending bank to validate the routing information prior to submitting the payment. Why up-to-date sort code data is important
The sort code data used by the UK payments industry is updated constantly to reflect bank and other financial institution changes. The pace of change is quicker now, driven in particular by the increased use of online banking, and the new Faster Payments Service. More of us are using automated payments, whether that means making an internet payment via our online banking or using a Direct Debit to pay a regular bill.