Part of our HSBC UK — Complete Guide 2026 hub.
HSBC UK uses branch-specific sort codes — so there is no single sort code that applies to all HSBC accounts. Your sort code was assigned to you based on the branch associated with your account when it was opened. Here’s where to find all your HSBC account details and what each piece of information is used for.
HSBC UK Account Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Sort code | 6 digits, branch-specific — find in app or online banking |
| Account number | 8 digits — unique to your account |
| SWIFT/BIC code | MIDLGB22 |
| IBAN format | GB + 2 check digits + MIDL + sort code + account number |
| Bank name (for transfers) | HSBC UK Bank plc |
How to Find Your HSBC Sort Code and Account Number
Via the HSBC app (fastest method):
- Open the HSBC app and sign in
- Tap on your current account
- Tap Account details or the information icon
- Your 6-digit sort code and 8-digit account number are displayed — tap to copy
Via HSBC online banking:
- Log in at hsbc.co.uk
- Select your account from the account summary
- Click Account details — sort code and account number are shown
Other ways to find your sort code:
- Bank statements — your sort code and account number appear at the top of every HSBC statement (paper or digital)
- Cheque book — if you have a chequebook, sort code is printed on every cheque
- Call HSBC — 03457 404 404 (you’ll need to pass security checks)
What Is a Sort Code Used For?
A sort code is a 6-digit number that identifies the bank and branch associated with your account. Alongside your account number, it’s used for:
- Receiving UK bank transfers — anyone sending you money needs both your sort code and account number
- Setting up direct debits — employers, HMRC, and service providers need these to pay into your account or collect regular payments
- Standing orders from other banks — to receive regular payments from accounts held elsewhere
- HMRC repayments — tax refunds and self-assessment repayments are sent directly to your bank account using your sort code and account number
Sort codes are not confidential — they’re used purely to route payments to the correct bank and branch. Sharing your sort code and account number is safe.
HSBC UK SWIFT/BIC Code
MIDLGB22 is the SWIFT/BIC code for HSBC UK.
You’ll need this when:
- Receiving an international transfer — give the sender your SWIFT/BIC alongside your IBAN
- Making an international payment from HSBC — HSBC’s online banking and app will often request or auto-populate the recipient’s SWIFT/BIC
SWIFT/BIC codes are publicly registered and safe to share with anyone sending you money from overseas.
HSBC UK IBAN
An IBAN (International Bank Account Number) is required when receiving international transfers into a UK bank account. It encodes your bank, branch, and account details in a standardised international format.
HSBC UK IBANs follow this structure:
GB + 2 check digits + MIDL + your 6-digit sort code + your 8-digit account number
Example format: GB15 MIDL 4051 5195 6789 01
Always use the IBAN shown in the HSBC app or online banking — don’t try to construct it manually, as errors in the check digits can cause transfers to fail or be sent to the wrong account.
Sharing Your Details Safely
Your sort code and account number can only be used to send money to you — they cannot be used to take money out of your account. It is completely safe to share them with:
- Your employer (for payroll)
- HMRC (for tax refunds)
- Government or local authority (for benefits or grants)
- Friends, family, or clients sending you a payment
Keep private: your card number, CVV, PIN, online banking password, and one-time passcodes. These are what fraudsters need to access your funds — never share them, even if someone claims to be from HSBC.
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be HSBC and asking for your PIN or full password, hang up and call 03457 404 404 directly using the number from the HSBC website.