What is a BBAN? Understanding the Core of Your IBAN
BBAN Definition
A BBAN (Basic Bank Account Number) is the country-specific part of an IBAN. It identifies your bank and account number using the domestic numbering system of your country. The BBAN is always embedded inside the IBAN, after the country code and check digits.
How a BBAN Fits Inside an IBAN
An IBAN has three parts:
| Country code | 2 letters (e.g., DE for Germany) | Identifies the country |
|---|---|---|
| Check digits | 2 digits (e.g., 89) | Validates the whole IBAN |
| BBAN | Variable length, up to 30 chars | Your domestic bank + account details |
BBAN Structure Varies by Country
Each country defines its own BBAN format. Here are examples from major countries:
| Germany | 22 chars total | 8-digit BLZ bank code + 10-digit account number |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 22 chars total | 6-digit sort code + 8-digit account number |
| France | 27 chars total | 5-digit bank code + 5-digit branch + 11-digit account |
| Spain | 24 chars total | 4-digit bank + 4-digit branch + 2-digit control + 10-digit account |
| Brazil | 29 chars total | 8-digit ISPB bank code + branch + account |
Why the BBAN Matters
The BBAN is what banks use to route domestic payments. When you transfer within your own country, the bank reads the BBAN. When you transfer internationally, the IBAN is used. Understanding your BBAN helps you know which parts of your account number matter for different types of payments.
Find Your BBAN
Your BBAN is simply your IBAN with the country code and check digits removed. For example, if your IBAN is GB29 NWBK 6016 1331 9268 19, your BBAN is NWBK 6016 1331 9268 19.