The Absa branch code is usually required when you want to make an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to an Absa account holder.
In fact, you will not be able to process an EFT without a branch code. However, if you don’t have a branch code, this does not mean the end of the world, as you can use the Absa universal branch code which is easier to remember.
Although Absa has different branch codes for its branches, the most commonly used branch code is its universal branch code 632005.
In this article, we will help you to understand the difference between a branch code and a universal branch code. Also, we will discuss when its most appropriate to use them.
What is an Absa Branch Code?
This is a unique identifier for different Absa branches within South Africa.
As you know, Absa is a large financial institution with several branches across the country. But how do you separate one branch from another? This is when a branch code comes in handy.
The branch code of a bank branch helps in distinguishing one branch from another. For this reason, each branch will have a different code from the others.
In addition, the branch code basically tells the area in which a branch is located.
Next, lets take a look at some of the questions usually asked in relation to the use of a branch code.
Do I need to know the branch code if I am depositing cash at a branch? No, you don’t need to know the account holder’s branch code if you make a deposit at a branch. The same is true if you make a cash deposit at an ATM.
What will happen if I get the branch code wrong? In most cases, you will find that your EFT payment will not go through.
How can I find an Absa branch code? One way to find a specific Absa branch code is going onto the Absa website and using their branch locator. For Absa clients, one easy way to find your branch code is to look on your monthly bank statements.
In addition, you can call Absa general enquiries on 08600 08600 and ask for the branch code you need.
You can also visit the IBAN website which took the liberty to list some Absa branch codes and addresses.
Absa Universal Branch Code
The Absa universal branch code is 632005. This code is valid for all Absa branches in South Africa irrespective of their location.
A universal branch code makes life much easier as you don’t have to memorize branch codes for several branches.
However, when you are making an EFT payment always make sure that the account details of the person you are paying are correct. This is because if you use the wrong account details most banks will not be able to reverse the transaction.
Which one should you use?
It all depends with the details available to you. Sometimes, the person you are paying might give you his correct branch code and, in that case, you can use the given code.
However, if you don’t have the branch code, use the Absa universal branch code and your payment will still go through.
If you are an Absa client and are the one expecting an EFT payment and can’t allocate you branch code you can give the person paying you the universal branch code 632005.
What is the Absa SWIFT Code?
A Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) code is used to identify a specific bank during an international transaction.
The Absa SWIFT code for international payments is ABSAZAJJ.
This code is only useful if you are expecting an international payment. In fact, anyone paying you from outside South Africa will not be able to do so without the Absa SWIFT code if you are an Absa account holder.
For local payments, there is no need to have this code with you.
Conclusion
When you are making EFT payments, don’t waste time trying to look for a branch code. Make use of the easier to remember code 632005.
Whether you use a branch code or universal branch code, your payment will still go through.