What is the SEPA identifier for transfers?

Published on 2026-01-04 · Updated on 2026-05-22

What is the SEPA identifier for transfers?

It’s the code that identifies the originator of a SEPA transfer. Unlike direct debits (where the identifier is the creditor’s), in transfers it identifies the company or person sending the payment.

TL;DR

Usually your VAT number with country code (e.g. ES12345678X).
Appears in the pain.001 XML inside <InitgPty><Id>…</Id></InitgPty>.
Some banks require a suffix (001, 002).
Not mandatory for individuals but recommended for businesses.

Where do I enter it?

In the originator profile in the converter.
Some banks request it when you sign up for file-based payments.

Is it the same as the CID?

No. The CID identifies the creditor of a direct debit. The SEPA originator identifier identifies the sender of a transfer.

Conclusion

For businesses, always keep your SEPA identifier handy when configuring the originator profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a freelancer need it?: Yes if they issue file-based transfers to their bank. As an individual paying ad-hoc from online banking, no.
Can I set any value?: No. It must match what your bank has on the file-payments contract. If it doesn't, the bank rejects the file.
Why do some banks ask for a suffix?: So you can differentiate business lines (branches, brands) within the same VAT.

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