First, check that you have entered your IBAN correctly. Your IBAN consists of your country code (DE), a two-digit check number, an eight-digit bank code and a ten-digit account number. For example: DE XX 11010101 37XXXXXX.

There is no legal basis on which merchants or employers may reject your IBAN. However, if this has happened to you, you can file a public complaint. For more information, visit the website of the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin)