What is an IFSC Code?
The Indian Financial System Code, popularly known as IFSC code, is a unique 11-digit alphanumeric code that is used to identify all banks and their branches at the time of online fund transfer process via NEFT, RTGS and IMPS. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issues the IFSC code to each bank. You can find the IFSC code on each cheque leaf and bank account passbook issued by the bank, or on the official website of the bank and RBI.
Key benefits of IFSC Code
- Smooth electronic fund transfer:
IFSC code is used for hassle-free and convenient online or electronic fund transfer from one bank account to another via NEFT, RTGS and NEFT.
- Unique bank branch identification:
Helps uniquely identify a specific bank and its branch, helping customers to transfer funds to the right bank account.
- Fraud prevention:
IFSC Code enables customers to execute an online transfer of funds securely, hence eliminating the chances of any fraudulent activity in the fund transfer process.
IFSC Code Format
The 11-digit alphanumeric IFSC code includes 3 essential components – bank code, zero (0) and specific branch code. Here is an example of IFSC Code of Punjab National Bank (Preet Vihar), Delhi branch.

- The first 4 characters represent the Punjab National Bank code
- The 5th character is a ‘0’
- The remaining 6 characters refer the Preet Vihar, Delhi branch code
How to use IFSC Code to transfer money
Customers can use the IFSC Code to transfer funds online from one bank account to another instantly and conveniently. The IFSC Code can also be used for credit card bill payments online.
The IFSC code is used to carry out the following online payment services:

How to find IFSC Code
Users can find the IFSC Code of a specific bank branch both online and offline through the following methods.
Online methods
1.) IFSC Code Finder on Afinoz
Here are the steps to find the IFSC Code of any bank branch on Afinoz.com:
- Click on IFSC Finder on the top right corner of the website.
- Enter your bank name, state, district and branch.
- IFSC code along with other banks details will open on your screen.
2.) Reserve Bank of India
You can also search for IFSC Code on the
official website of the Reserve Bank of India.
3.) Internet/ mobile banking
You can use your bank’s netbanking portal or mobile app to find the IFSC Code of your bank.
Offline methods
Use any of the following methods to find the IFSC Code of a particular bank branch offline.
1.) Passbook
Account holders can find the IFSC code on a passbook issued by a bank

2.) Cheque book
IFSC Code can also be found on the top of the cheque leaf issued by a bank. The MICR Code is printed at the bottom of the cheque leaf.
