MT940 files

An MT940 file (where MT stands for Message Type) or (SWIFT) MT940 is an international standard format for exporting financial bank transactions. This type of file is also known as the Customer Statement Message and follows a specific, structured format.

Nmbrs Accounting uses this structured file format to import bank transactions in bulk.

Although there is a global international standard for the structure of an MT940 file, the exact implementation and detailed specifications may vary by bank.

Why is MT940 used?

Most banks offer the option to export transaction history via online banking as an MT940 file. By uploading this file to Nmbrs Accounting:

• all deposits and withdrawals are automatically imported in a single step.
• you avoid typos and missing transactions.
• outstanding items, invoice numbers, and accounts receivable/payable are identified and matched more quickly.

Format and structure of MT940

Technically speaking, an MT940 file is a plain text file (.txt) composed of multiple lines of text. Together, these lines form the various transaction records.

The following fixed rules apply when constructing an MT940 file:

• Fixed tags: each record (such as the opening balance, transaction, or description) begins with a tag in the format :XX: or :XXa: (for example, :60F: or :61:)
• One account per message: each message block within the file always refers to exactly one IBAN or account number.
• Multiple messages per export: an export file can contain consecutive records (for example, multiple statements or periods)..
• Transaction lines: a transaction line (:61:) is immediately followed by the corresponding description (:86:).

Overview of most important MT940 tags

Below is the structure of the most common tags (records) within an MT940 message: