How to find a branch's IFSC code
Four places carry the code, in order of reliability.
1. Cheque book or passbook
The IFSC code is printed on the first page of every cheque book and on the inside cover of most passbooks, next to the account number and MICR code. This is the authoritative source because the bank printed it for that specific branch.
2. Account statement or net banking
Download any statement as PDF: the branch code appears in the header. In net banking, open the account details screen — the IFSC is usually listed beside the account number, and the beneficiary screen will pre-fill it for your own accounts.
3. The bank's branch locator
Every large bank publishes a branch locator. Search by city and branch name; the result lists the IFSC, MICR, address and often the branch phone number. Bank locators are updated when branches merge or are renamed, which matters for older codes.
4. A branch directory like this one
Search by code, branch name, city or district. The advantage over a single bank's locator is that you can compare branches, see which transfer rails a branch supports, and find the neighbouring branch when a code turns out to be obsolete after a merger.
Verifying before a transfer
Cross-check two independent sources — typically the payee's cheque book plus the bank locator. If the code's bank prefix does not match the bank you are paying, stop: a wrong prefix sends the money to a different institution and the refund can take days.
Frequently asked questions
Can I find an IFSC code from an account number?
No. The account number does not encode the branch in a way customers can read; the IFSC must be obtained from the bank or a directory.
Is the IFSC code the same as the MICR code?
No. IFSC is eleven characters used for electronic transfers; MICR is a nine-digit code printed in magnetic ink for cheque clearing. Both identify the branch.
Do branches change IFSC codes?
Yes, when banks merge or branches are renumbered. Old codes usually keep working for a transition period, then stop.