Is it valid? Try our sort code checker to find out.

Last updated: 5 November 2024

Bank Account & Sort Code Checker

How does it work?

Banks use a combination of "modulo" and "double-alternate" modulus checker algorithms, along with a set of "weights" to perform a mathematical calculation - all designed to help identify when account numbers have been entered correctly. The most common types of mistake are when numbers are swapped and these types of algorithms help identify that.

As new banks open and sort codes are issued, the algorithms for these banks need to be published and shared with banks. Mintly is constantly keeping its system updated with these new algorithms, so our customers have access to the latest data.

There are several ways to check an account number and sort code are valid. One is to obtain the directory of sort codes, and then implement the algorithms and weight database needed to perform the checks. This database then needs to be updated regularly whenever new data or algorithms are issued. To check a bank sort code is valid, you can use a lookup table and keep this table updated as the data changes.

Alternatively you can use a system like Mintly. Our database is updated weekly with the newest data and modulus check algorithms, and our stable API allows you to query a sort code, and account number. We'll tell you if it's valid and the types of payment that the branch supports. We make it really easy to integrate with existing systems too through our API, including a Zapier app and helpful guides.

Our Frequently Asked Questions page may help with other common questions.

Need a bank account checking solution for your business?

If you're looking for an online sort code and account number checker then our online tools can give you unlimited checks. Or use our free sort code checker tool where you can check ten accounts a week totally free! If you need an account and sort code checker that confirms that Faster Payments, BACS or Direct Debit are supported, then Mintly's tools can help you.

To use our bank sort code and account number checker, you can login to our web UI and submit the details; our fast service returns the answer and tells you the name, location and contact details of the bank branch based on the sorting code, and tells you whether it is a valid bank account. Note that the algorithms used can only say whether an account number is valid or not; the account number may not be in use. We also cannot provide personal details for account holders.

Not only can Mintly check sort codes and account numbers, we also check IBAN (International Bank Account Number) and SWIFT codes, which are used when sending money internationally.

Sign up and pick a plan to try free for 14 days

Try our tools or use our API to integrate to your systems

See value right away, with higher payment success!

Automation with our API - the next step to saving more money

For businesses wanting to automate their processes and integrate a sort code finder or bank account modulus check into their own systems, Mintly offers an API (Application Programming Interface) that allows systems to talk to each other over the internet securely. Our API sends back all the bank details once validated, so that you can handle the next step in your workflow. Getting started is easy, just follow our handy guides with code examples.

If you'd like to try Mintly out, we have a 14 day free trial for all our plans, or if you have further questions, please get in touch, we'd love to help you with your bank validation needs. Or book a demo with one of our experts, who are happy to help you get set up.