Can I transfer money using an IBAN only?

So, can you just use an IBAN to send money? I wondered that myself, actually, a few months ago when I was trying to get paid for that freelance writing gig in Italy. It was a bit stressful! Turns out, yes, you totally can.

You just give the person your IBAN – that’s your International Bank Account Number, it’s like your bank’s address for international transfers. Think of it like a super specific postal code, but for money! It’s way more secure than just giving out your account number, which is good, because I’m kinda paranoid about that stuff.

To find your IBAN? Easy peasy. I found mine on my online banking, you probably can too. It should be right there. Otherwise, check a bank statement – those things are usually a treasure trove of slightly confusing numbers, but the IBAN should be pretty clear. Or, you know, call your bank. I’ve had to do that before, and sometimes they’re actually really helpful! (Shocking, I know.) It’s not always the most fun thing to do, but hey, at least you’ll get your money eventually.