Empfängerkontonummer

Empfängerkontonummer (EKR) is a German term that translates to "recipient account number." It is a unique identifier assigned to a bank account in Germany. The EKR is a 10-digit number that is used to facilitate direct debits and other automated payments. It is part of the German banking system's identification structure and is managed by the Bundesbank, the central bank of Germany.

The EKR is used by companies and individuals to receive payments electronically. It ensures that payments are correctly credited to the intended recipient's bank account. The EKR is a crucial component of the SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) system, which allows for the seamless transfer of funds across European countries.

To use the EKR, a recipient must provide it to the payer, who then enters it into the payment instruction. The EKR is typically accompanied by the bank's identification code (BLZ), which is a unique identifier for the bank itself. Together, the EKR and BLZ allow for the precise identification of a bank account within the German banking system.

The use of the EKR has become increasingly important with the rise of digital payments and the need for efficient and secure financial transactions. It helps to reduce errors in payment processing and ensures that funds are correctly allocated. The EKR is a key element of Germany's financial infrastructure, facilitating billions of euros in transactions each year.