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Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code

By: Jaivinder Bhandari
Review By: Ankur Koul

Updated on: February 3, 2026

What is Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code?

The basic statistical return 7 digit code is a unique identification string launched by the Reserve Bank of India in late 1972. This specific BSR code contains two distinct segments of banking data. You will find that the first three numbers identify your specific bank. The subsequent four digits pinpoint the exact branch location where you hold your account.

Consequently, every registered bank office has its own basic statistical return code. This system allows the Income Tax Department to track your digital tax payments and filings with high precision. It is the most reliable tool for stopping fraudulent activity when you file TDS or TCS returns.

Where is Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code used?

This BSR code helps the Income Tax Department monitor the TDS & TCS returns you file. You can also utilize this specific sequence to double-check any digital payments you made during your tax submission process. You will generally spot this basic statistical return code on several official financial documents:

The Online Tax Accounting System (OLTAS) Receipt.

Your Unique Challan Identification Number (CIN).

Various TDS Certificates.

Classification of Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code

There are seven distinct types of basic statistical returns, and each serves a very specific purpose. Here are the precise details regarding these basic statistical returns RBI classifications -

Classification	Purpose & Application
BSR 1	You use this for advances from every bank branch on the last Friday of June and December. It is split into two sections—Part I handles accounts with balances exceeding ₹10,000, while Part II handles those with balances under ₹10,000.
BSR 2	This relates to your half-yearly return deposits submitted to banks. It specifically tracks the data recorded on the final Friday of both June and December.
BSR 3	This applies to the monthly return advances your Head Office makes toward the Security of Selected Sensitive Commodities. It focuses on records from the final Friday of each month.
BSR 4	You will find this applies once every two years. It records the Return on Ownership of bank deposits across all branches on the final Friday of March.
BSR 5	This specifically covers the yearly bank investment return from your Head Office. The records are finalised on the very last day of March each year.
BSR 6	This classification is for the Quinquennial Survey (done every five years). It monitors debits made to various deposit accounts during March and April.
BSR 7	This quarterly code monitors the Survey of Aggregate Deposits and Gross Bank Credit. Your Head Office tracks this on the last Friday of June, September, and December, plus March 31.

Purpose of Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code

The BSR code is a seven-digit identifier issued by the RBI to every bank branch across the nation. Now you know what BSR code is, but why is it important?

Recognises Bank Branches: It ensures the government can see exactly which specific branch handled your transaction.

Tax Reporting: Your bank uses this basic statistical return code to report tax payments, such as advance tax, to the authorities.

Ensures Banking Data is in Order: The RBI uses these codes to manage and sort data on national borrowing and deposits.

Monitors Tax Payments: It makes sure your payments match your personal records so you get the tax credit you deserve.

It keeps your tax as well as banking data organised & transparent.

Why is Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code Required?

You need a BSR code when you are filing your Tax Collected at Source (TCS) and Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) returns. It makes maintaining digital records of your tax-related payments much simpler (and far more accurate).

These specific records grant the Income Tax Department instant access to your payment history through the banking system. If you ever need an instant personal loan, keeping your tax records clean with the right BSR code is always a smart move for your financial profile.

Benefits of Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code

The basic statistical returns meaning goes beyond just numbers; it offers several practical advantages for you:

Streamlines Audits: It speeds up the auditing process by showing exactly where you sent your tax funds.

Ensures Accurate Reporting: You can be sure your deposits are recorded correctly because they link to a specific branch.

Better Reconciliation: It helps you match your bank records with tax payments to quickly fix errors.

Simplified Tax Filing: This unique code streamlines the way you submit TDS and TCS returns.

Helps with Tax Management: It helps the government track collections across thousands of different branches.

Lessens Errors: You face fewer mistakes in your financial reports by linking every transaction to a verified branch.

How to Find Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code?

To locate the BSR code for any specific bank:

Look at your Form 16 or TDS certificate; you will often see the BSR code printed directly on the document.

Use a digital search tool by providing your bank name, state, and branch location.

Check the official CPAO directory if you are looking for government or pension-related branches.

Talk to your bank branch directly- they keep their basic statistical return 7 digit code in their internal branch records.

Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Codes of Banks

The following table shows the first 3 digits of the BSR code for different popular banks in India.

Bank Name	BSR Code
State Bank of India	000, 002, 006, 010
Punjab National Bank	030
Canara Bank	024
Bank of Baroda	020
ICICI Bank	639
Axis Bank	636
HDFC Bank	051
Kotak Mahindra Bank	018

Difference Between BSR Code and IFSC Code

Both the IFSC and the BSR code are vital to our banking system (but they do very different things). Here is how you can tell them apart -

Basic Structural Return (BSR) Code	Indian Financial System Code (IFSC)
A BSR code uses exactly 7 digits.	This code uses a total of eleven characters.
The RBI assigns this to help the tax department track your payments.	The RBI assigns this to identify bank branches for transfers.
The first 3 digits are the bank and the last 4 are the branch.	The first 4 are the bank, the 5th is zero, and the rest is the branch.
You use this to create your unique challan identification number.	You use this for online transfers like NEFT or RTGS.

What is the Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code for Self-Assessment Tax?

You calculate self-assessment tax on your own by looking at your total income and the tax rates that apply to you. After you subtract your tax credits (like TDS), you deposit the remaining amount with the government. To do this correctly, you must download the payment challan and secure the correct BSR code and challan number. This ensures your payment reaches the right department and settles your tax liability for the year.

Where to Fill Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code in ITR?

You are not just responsible for paying tax in India. You also have to give details of your self-assessment tax in Schedule IT of your ITR. Once you pay, you get a copy of the challan. You must find the BSR code on that receipt and enter it into your ITR form. Ensuring this number is correct prevents the tax department from sending you a notice for unpaid taxes.

The Basic Statistical Return helps monitor banking operations in India. It helps find TCS or TDS returns. Besides, it is needed for retired individuals to get pensions more quickly.

Difference Between BSR Code and CIN

The BSR code means a lot for tax tracking, but it is often confused with the CIN. Here is the breakdown -

Feature	BSR Code	Challan Identification Number (CIN)
Length	Maximum of 8 characters	Usually 20 characters (including the BSR)
Components	Bank and branch identifier.	BSR code, date of deposit, and challan serial number.
Primary Use	Identifies the branch for tax reporting.	Acts as a unique proof of your specific tax payment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code

When you handle your taxes, precision is everything. Here are some slips you should watch out for:

Typing the wrong BSR code into your official ITR forms.

Mistaking your BSR code for your IFSC or MICR numbers (they look similar but have different jobs).

Using old challan forms that might have an outdated code listed.

Leaving the BSR code field empty when you file online- this will definitely cause delays in your tax processing.

Basic Statistical Return (BSR) Code in International Transactions

While you will mostly use the BSR code within India, it still matters for international dealings:

It helps with cross-border tax reporting when Indian banks manage foreign funds.

It assists in verifying inward remittances to ensure you are tax-compliant.

It helps transfer tax-related money through Indian branches for your international clients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q.1. What is a BSR Code?

A BSR code is a seven-digit number that the Reserve Bank of India gives to every bank branch. You use it primarily for tax-related tasks. It helps the government track your TDS and TCS payments (ensuring you get credit for the taxes you have already paid).

Q.2. What is the full form of BSR?

The BSR code full form stands for Basic Statistical Return. It is part of a system created by the RBI to collect data from banks. While it helps with statistics, you will most likely encounter it when you are filing your income tax returns or checking challans.

Q.3. Is the BSR code the same as the IFSC code?

No, they are different. You use an IFSC for sending money via NEFT or RTGS. You use a BSR code for tax purposes and reporting to the RBI. An IFSC has eleven characters (letters and numbers), whereas a BSR code only contains seven digits.

Q.4. How does a BSR code differ from a bank's branch code?

A branch code is often an internal number used by a bank for its own records. However, a BSR code is a regulated seven-digit number assigned by the RBI. It is specifically designed for national tax tracking and statistical reporting across all Indian banks.

Q.5. Is the BSR code the same across all branches of a bank?

No, it is not. Every branch has a unique BSR code. The first three digits identify the bank (e.g., SBI or HDFC), while the last four digits are unique to that branch. You must use the code for the exact branch you paid with.

Q.6. How can I verify if a BSR code is correct?

You can verify it by checking your physical tax challan or your Form 16. If you are still unsure, you can use the official NSDL website or your bank's online portal to search for the specific BSR code assigned to your branch by the RBI.

By: Jaivinder Bhandari

Jaivinder Bhandari is a Senior SEO Manager at lendingplate with a passion for writing on a wide range of financial topics, including personal loans, credit and debit cards, investments, money management, and practical financial tips to help people improve their financial well-being. Linkedin Profile