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Understanding salary payments in germany with iban changes

Germany's New IBAN Sparks Debate | Salary Payments Shuffle

By

Sophia Patel

Jan 26, 2026, 05:46 AM

Edited By

Clara Smith

2 minutes to read

A close-up of a bank statement showing salary payments with IBAN details in Germany.
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A wave of discussion emerges around the recent implementation of the German IBAN for salary payments. With many expressing mixed feelings about the transition from LT to DE, users share their experiences regarding the shift and the impact on payment processes.

Mixed Responses to the IBAN Shift

Some users report success with the new German IBAN, declaring, "No issues at all. DE IBAN works great. It’s now my main bank account." This indicates satisfaction after the change.

However, not everyone is on board. A user raised concerns about the legality of employers refusing payments to Lithuanian IBANs, highlighting potential discrimination within the SEPA network, stating, "FYI that’s illegal. Lithuania is in SEPA, so refusing to issue payment to a LT IBAN is IBAN discrimination." This issue brings serious implications for employee rights and compliance.

Dominant Themes in Discussions

The conversations revolve around three key themes:

  • User Experience: Positive feedback on the German IBAN's functionality.

  • Legal Compliance: Concerns about employer practices regarding IBAN discrimination.

  • Payment Options: Discussions on using Revolut and other non-traditional banking methods for salary payments.

Insights from the Community

"It’s illegal to favor one IBAN over another under SEPA."

This comment echoes a growing demand for accountability among employers and highlights the broader implications of operating within European regulations.

Key Insights

  • βœ“ Positive Experience: Many find the new IBAN effective for salary payment.

  • ⚠️ Legal Concerns: Users warn against employment practices that ignore SEPA rules.

  • πŸ”„ Alternative Banking: Users are exploring options like Revolut for salary accounts.

The rising concerns about legal compliance, especially regarding salary payment systems, may challenge employers to reassess their practices. Will these discussions lead to significant changes in how salary payments are processed in Germany? Only time will tell.

Shifting Payment Landscapes Ahead

There's a strong chance that the issues surrounding IBAN payments will lead to a reassessment of salary payment processes across Germany. Experts estimate that within the next 12 months, many employers may adapt to ensure compliance with SEPA rules, potentially integrating new technologies to streamline their payment systems. As people become increasingly aware of their rights and financial regulations, compliance will likely shift from being a mere formality to a priority for employers. Companies that fail to adapt may not only face legal repercussions but also risk a negative impact on their workforce morale and reputation in the market.

A Historical Lens on Change

The current shake-up with IBANs can be likened to the transition from physical paychecks to direct deposit in the early 2000s. At that time, many workers were hesitant, fearing loss of control over their finances. As digital banking grew, those same doubts morphed into widespread acceptance, transforming how people view their income. This parallel suggests that while today’s discussions on IBANs may seem contentious, they may one day be seen as a necessary evolution toward more efficient and transparent financial practices.