RIB, IBAN…deciphering your bank details
IBAN, RIB, SWIFT… the abbreviations used in the banking world can be confusing. But don’t worry! N26 is here to help you decipher the various elements used to identify your bank account.
What is a RIB?
A RIB (“relevé d'identité bancaire” in French) is a document that has information about a person’s identity and bank details. Your RIB lets you share your bank details with others—for example, so that you can receive transfers or pay bills by direct debit
How do I get a RIB?
Traditionally, you would request a RIB over the counter at your local bank branch or from the dedicated machines in your local branch. However, it’s becoming more common for customers to download an RIB from their bank's website and print it off themselves. If you have an N26 account, you can get your RIB by going to the web app and generating your RIB in PDF format from there.
What is included in my bank details?
Bank Code
The bank code is used to distinguish one banking establishment from another. It consists of five digits—these are the first five numbers of your IBAN.
Branch Code
The branch code is used to identify the various branches operated by a single bank. It also consists of five digits.
Account Number
This is the number that is used to identify your bank account within your bank’s systems. It usually consists of 11 digits.
RIB Key
This is a two-digit number between 01 and 97 that comes after your bank account number. The RIB key is used to validate your account number.
What is the difference between a RIB and an IBAN?
IBAN stands for “International Bank Account Number.” It’s a sequence of letters and numbers that is used to identify a bank account and the bank account holder and it ensures that money can be securely transferred internationally. A RIB (relevé d'identité bancaire) is a document that is used to identify a specific bank account. Nowadays, “RIB” and “IBAN” are often used interchangeably.
Your RIB and IBAN with N26
With N26, you can find your RIB in the web app and you can easily view your IBAN in the My Account tab of the app. You can use your IBAN to receive transfers or your salary, for example, and you can even share it with service providers to set up direct debits for paying your bills!
Find a plan for you
N26 Standard
The free* online bank account
- A virtual debit card
- Free payments worldwide
- Up to 3 free withdraws
- Deposit protection
N26 Smart
The bank account that gives you more control
- Free Virtual Card
- Up to 10 Spaces sub-accounts
- Support Center phone number
- Round-ups
N26 You
The debit card for everyday and travel
- Up to 5 free withdrawals in the Eurozone
- Flight and luggage delay cover
- Medical emergency cover
- Winter activities insurance
N26 Metal
The premium account with a metal card
- An 18-gram metal card
- Up to 8 free withdrawals in the Eurozone
- Purchase protection
- Phone insurance
FAQ
How do I change my RIB?
Your RIB contains both your bank account details and your personal details. Your account number won’t change while your account remains open. If your address changes, you have to let your bank know so that your file can be updated and your most up-to-date details can be entered in your RIB.
Where can I find my RIB?
Depending on your bank, you can get your RIB in a number of ways: over the counter at your local bank branch, from the dedicated machines in your local branch, in your checkbook (if you have one), or online in your bank’s web app.
How do I get a RIB?
The easiest way to get your RIB is to download it from your bank’s web app. It will usually be downloaded in PDF format, so you can share it easily if needed.