Banks use the IFSC (Indian Financial System Code) to route online payments through NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS. When an IFSC shows “Not Found”, “Invalid”, or “Does Not Exist”, it can stop salary credits, refunds, UPI linking, and online transfers.

This guide breaks down every reason this error appears, how to verify the correct code, where to find the updated/merged IFSC, and how to fix payment failures caused by outdated or incorrect IFSC entries.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Confirm the bank and branch name. IFSC is fully branch-specific, so one wrong branch leads to the wrong code.
2. Use your bank’s official IFSC finder. Every major bank lists updated branch IFSC codes — especially after mergers.
3. Check RBI’s official IFSC directory. RBI publishes authoritative, updated IFSC data for all branches.
4. Verify using the 11-character format. IFSC must follow the pattern: 4 letters (bank) + 0 + 6-digit branch code.
5. If your branch recently merged, check the new IFSC. Many IFSC codes changed due to bank mergers like SBI, PNB, Bank of Baroda, etc.

Required Documents

• Bank passbook with printed IFSC
• Cheque book (first page usually displays IFSC)
• Account statement (PDF statements show the updated IFSC)
• SMS/email from bank during branch merger or IFSC change
• Internet banking login (profile section shows correct IFSC)

Fees (If Applicable)

Checking the IFSC code is 100% free. Banks do not charge anything for verifying or updating IFSC in your account or UPI apps.

Status Meaning Explained

• IFSC Not Found: Code does not exist in official directories — usually a typo or outdated code.
• Invalid IFSC: Format incorrect or branch has shifted to a new IFSC after merger.
• IFSC Deactivated: RBI has discontinued old codes and replaced them after mergers.
• Bank Server Not Responding: Temporary downtime while validating IFSC during transfer.
• Does Not Match Profile: UPI or bank app cannot verify IFSC against registered branch.

Common Reasons for Delays

• Branch merged and IFSC changed, but user still using the old code
• Incorrect bank name → wrong IFSC lookup
• Using IFSC from unverified third-party sites
• Payment app using cached IFSC data
• RBI deactivated multiple IFSCs during consolidation
• Migration delays during major bank merger rollouts

Solutions for Each Problem

• Check RBI’s official IFSC directory. This is the most reliable source for active IFSC codes.
• Use the bank’s official site/app. They always list the final updated IFSC after mergers.
• Check your passbook or recent statement. Banks update passbook IFSC after system migration.
• Replace old cheque book with a new one. New cheque leaves display the final branch IFSC.
• Reset/refresh UPI app data. Clear cached bank data from Google Pay/PhonePe/Paytm.
• Ask your bank to send you the new IFSC via SMS/email. This is instant and avoids mistakes.

Offline Alternatives

If online verification fails or your bank website is down, visit the nearest branch. Ask the staff to print or write down your correct IFSC. Also request:

• Updated passbook entry
• Branch migration letter (after mergers)
• IFSC confirmation slip
• Updated cheque book if required

Offline verification is the most reliable when dealing with merged banks like SBI, PNB, Indian Bank, Bank of Baroda, etc.

How to Escalate Complaints

• Bank Toll-Free Number: Contact your bank’s helpline and request IFSC verification.
• Email branch manager: Ask for the new IFSC in writing for documentation.
• Raise complaint via bank’s grievance portal: Useful if salary/fund transfer is delayed due to IFSC error.
• RBI CMS Portal: If bank gives conflicting IFSC information causing payment failures, escalate to RBI.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know if my branch IFSC has changed?
   Check SMS/email updates from your bank or verify via RBI’s IFSC directory.
2. Can I use old IFSC codes after merger?
   No. Old codes become invalid once RBI updates them.
3. Why is my UPI app not accepting my IFSC?
   Your app may have cached old IFSC data — refresh or remove the bank account and re-add.
4. Is it safe to check IFSC on third-party websites?
   Many are outdated. Always cross-check with bank or RBI.
5. Does IFSC affect UPI payments?
   Yes — UPI uses IFSC behind the scenes for certain bank routing checks.
6. Where can I find my IFSC offline?
   Passbook, cheque book, or printed account statement.
7. I have two IFSC codes on Google. Which one is correct?
   Pick the one listed on the bank’s official branch page.
8. Can IFSC errors delay salary or refunds?
   Absolutely — incorrect or outdated IFSC prevents crediting.
9. What happens if I enter the wrong IFSC in a transfer?
   Your transaction will fail or get reversed automatically; money won’t reach the wrong account.
10. Can I update IFSC in UPI without visiting bank?
    Yes — most UPI apps update automatically when you re-add your account.