In the world of personal finance and banking, the United Kingdom has a unique institution known as a building society. While similar to banks in many ways, building societies operate under a different structure and often focus more on mortgages and savings.
What is a Building Society?
A building society is a financial institution owned by its members, meaning the customers are essentially part-owners. These institutions typically provide services such as:
- Mortgage lending
- Savings accounts
- Personal loans
- Current accounts (though not always)
How Building Societies Differ from Banks
Unlike traditional banks which are shareholder-driven, building societies prioritize their members. They don’t aim to generate profits for external investors but instead reinvest earnings to improve services, offer better interest rates, and lower fees.
This customer-first model is one of the reasons why roll numbers came into existence—to help uniquely identify accounts within the internal systems of these societies.
Understanding the Building Society Roll Number
Definition of a Building Society Roll Number
A building society roll number is a unique identifier assigned to your individual account within the building society. It’s used alongside your sort code and account number when processing payments.
Purpose and Function of the Roll Number
Roll numbers help building societies manage internal account structures that may not follow standard banking formats. They’re especially useful for:
- Routing payments correctly
- Identifying the correct branch or account holder
- Reducing the risk of errors in internal systems
Think of it as an extra address line when sending a letter—it ensures it reaches the exact recipient.
Why Do You Need a Roll Number for Payments?
If you’re transferring money to someone with an account at a building society, you’ll likely need their roll number to complete the transaction. This is especially true for certain types of accounts or societies that use an internal ledger system.
Role of Roll Numbers in Sending Money
When using services like Remit Choice to send money, especially from abroad to a UK building society, the roll number ensures the funds are deposited into the right account.
Ensuring Payment Accuracy
Omitting the roll number or entering it incorrectly can lead to:
- Payment delays
- Transfers being returned
- Money being deposited into the wrong account
So it’s not just an optional detail—it’s essential for accuracy.
Structure of a Roll Number
Typical Format of a Building Society Roll Number
Roll numbers can vary in length and format depending on the building society. Some common characteristics include:
- Alphanumeric format (letters and numbers)
- Typically 8–18 characters long
- Sometimes includes slashes or hyphens
Examples of Roll Number Usage
Here’s a simplified example:
- Sort Code: 12-34-56
- Account Number: 12345678
- Roll Number: ABC1234567/89
The roll number provides that extra layer of specificity for routing within the building society.
Roll Number vs Bank Account Number
Key Differences
| Feature | Roll Number | Bank Account Number |
| Usage | Internal building society reference | Used in banks and some societies |
| Format | Alphanumeric and varies | Numeric, usually 8 digits |
| Required For | Certain payments to societies | All standard bank transfers |
When Each is Required
If you’re sending money to a bank, just the sort code and account number will do. But for a building society, the roll number is mandatory in most cases.
Common Situations Where Roll Numbers Are Needed
You might need a roll number when:
- Setting up direct debits
- Making online transfers from your remittance provider
- Receiving international payments
- Paying into mortgage or savings accounts held with a building society
How to Find Your Building Society Roll Number
Account Documents and Statements
Most roll numbers are found on:
- Paper bank statements
- Online banking profiles
- Account welcome letters
Contacting Your Building Society
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to reach out directly to your building society. They can confirm whether your account has a roll number and what it is.
Mistakes to Avoid with Roll Numbers
Common Errors and Their Consequences
- Incorrect digits or characters → Payment fails
- Leaving it blank when it’s required → Transaction delayed
- Confusing it with account number → Payment misrouted
Tips to Prevent Transfer Failures
- Double-check the roll number with the recipient
- Use official account documentation
- Contact your building society or payment provider if unsure
How Remit Choice Handles Building Society Roll Numbers
At Remit Choice, we understand the complexities of sending money to over 70 countries—including the UK’s unique financial system.
Our Remittance Process
When you send money to a UK building society:
- We prompt you for the roll number
- Validate details to reduce errors
- Notify you if any required fields are missing
Supporting UK and International Transfers
We’re fully equipped to handle both local and international transfers, making sure funds arrive quickly and safely.
How We Ensure Accurate Transfers
Using advanced verification systems and trained support staff, Remit Choice ensures your roll number and account details are spot-on every time.
Sending Money to a Building Society Account
Step-by-Step Guide Using Remit Choice
- Log in to your Remit Choice account
- Enter recipient details including:
- Full name
- Building society name
- Sort code
- Account number
- Roll number
- Full name
- Confirm the transfer amount and review fees
- Submit and track your transfer in real-time
Required Details for Secure Transfer
| Field | Required? |
| Recipient Name | ✅ |
| Account Number | ✅ |
| Sort Code | ✅ |
| Roll Number | ✅ (if applicable) |
FAQs about Building Society Roll Numbers
Q1: Do all building societies use roll numbers?
No, some now offer standard bank account numbers. But many still require a roll number for internal routing.
Q2: Can I use a bank account number instead?
Not always. If a roll number is provided, it must be used.
Q3: What if I forget my roll number?
Check your account documents or contact your building society immediately.
Q4: Are roll numbers confidential?
Yes, treat them like any other banking detail and only share when necessary.
Q5: Is it safe to share my roll number?
Yes, but only through trusted platforms like Remit Choice or with verified individuals.
Q6: How do roll numbers affect international transfers?
They ensure your money reaches the correct building society account without delay.
External Resources and Further Reading
Conclusion
A building society roll number might seem like a small detail, but it plays a huge role in ensuring accurate and secure payments within the UK’s unique banking system. At Remit Choice, we make it easy for you to send money safely—no matter where you are in the world. Whether you’re transferring to a friend, paying a mortgage, or supporting loved ones, we handle the details so you don’t have to.
