ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

New Zealand bank account prefix

Alright, kiddo! In New Zealand, bank accounts have a special code called a "prefix" at the beginning of their account number. Think of it like a secret code that helps the bank know which type of account it is and which bank it belongs to.

The prefix usually has two or three letters and some numbers, and it's assigned by a group called the Bank for International Settlements (BIS). The group's job is to make sure banks all over the world use consistent codes and standards so that money can be easily transferred from one country to another.

Each prefix represents a different type of account, like a savings account, a checking account, or a business account. It also helps the bank figure out which branch of the bank the account belongs to and which customer it belongs to. So, the prefix is like a really important piece of information that helps the bank manage everyone's money correctly.

When you open a bank account in New Zealand, the bank will give you an account number with a prefix that matches the kind of account you have. So, if you have a savings account, your prefix will be different than someone who has a checking account. And that's basically what the New Zealand bank account prefix is all about!