Activate and verify a payment method
Before the first payment to a new account, SiFi checks the account details. This protects you from fraud, wrong-account payments and failed transfers.
What SiFi checks
| Transfer type | What's checked | How long |
|---|---|---|
| Local IBAN | IBAN format; the account holder name is fetched from the Saudi bank | Instant |
| SWIFT | SWIFT/BIC code and the account number format for the country | Can take longer |
| Internal (SiFi) | The SiFi account exists | Instant |
What you see
When you add a local IBAN, SiFi shows the account holder name held by the bank.
- Name matches: the method is ready to use.
- Name doesn't match: a mismatch flag appears. Check with your partner that the IBAN is right before you pay. The flag is for information only and doesn't stop the payment.
Payment method statuses
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pending activation | Added and being checked. |
| Active | Checked and ready to use. |
| Failed | The details are invalid (e.g. wrong IBAN format or unknown SWIFT code). Correct them and save. |
Local and internal methods go straight to Active or Failed. SWIFT methods can stay in Pending activation for longer.
If the check fails
| Reason | What to do |
|---|---|
| Invalid IBAN | Saudi IBANs start with SA and are 24 characters. |
| Invalid SWIFT/BIC | Check the code with your partner (8 or 11 characters). |
| Account not found | Confirm the account number with your partner. |
A method also fails if the account holder name doesn't match the bank's record or the IBAN can't be verified. You can't send a transfer until the method is Active.
Correct the details and save; the check runs again automatically. See "Edit a partner's details".
Activate a payment method that is pending
- Open the partner from Payments → Partner Hub and go to the Payment Methods tab.
- Click ⋮ on the method marked Pending activation and select Activate payment method.
- Answer the automated verification call from SiFi (920031030) and follow the prompts. The window shows how much time is left.
- When the call is completed, the method changes to Active.
Need help? support@sifi.sa