How does Confirmation of Payee work?

When you send money, we will check with the bank you’re sending money to that the name on the account matches the bank details you’ve provided, and let you know if they don’t.

One of the following results will appear on your screen:

The recipient account name is a match

Means the recipient account name you entered matches the payee’s account name.

The recipient name you gave us is a close match, but not exactly the same as the name held on the account

Means the recipient name you gave us is a close match to the name held on the account but not an exact match. We will show the name on the account you’re paying to help you decide whether it’s the right person. You should also double-check the details and request another CoP check before sending any payment.

The recipient name you gave us is not the same as the name held on the account

Means the recipient name you gave us is different to the name held on the account. You should double-check the details and request another CoP check, otherwise your money could be sent to the wrong account.

It is important to be aware that if you choose to go ahead anyway, and the account does not belong to the intended recipient, we may not be able to get your money back.

The recipient bank account does not exist

Means it may be that the recipient account sort code or account number has been entered incorrectly, or the account may be closed. You will need to check with the recipient if their details are correct before you are able to make a payment. If an account does not exist, the payment can't be made.

Unable to check the name, please try again later

Sometimes we won’t be able to check the name on the account you’re sending money to. That doesn’t mean that anything’s wrong. It could just be that the payee’s bank or building society isn’t using CoP yet.

You can continue with the payment – but always double-check yourself that the account name and details are correct.

We are unable to verify these details with the recipient bank at this time – please check the details before continuing

Sometimes we won’t be able to check the name on the account you’re sending money to. That doesn’t mean that anything’s wrong. It could just be that the payee’s bank or building society isn’t using CoP yet.

You can continue with the payment – but always double-check yourself that the account name and details are correct.

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