What is an LEI? Code Structure Anatomy
An LEI (Legal Entity Identifier) is a 20-digit code designed according to the ISO 17442 standard.
ISO 17442 Structure Breakdown Asset
1234
LOU (4)
00
Res (2)
ABC123XYZ789
Entity Code (12)
89
Checksum (2)
The first 4 characters identify the Local Operating Unit (LOU) that issued the code. Characters 5-6 are reserved (always 00). Characters 7-18 are the unique identifier assigned to the legal entity, and the final 2 digits are the checksum values calculated via the ISO 7064 Mod 97-10 algorithm.
Next Steps
- How to Get an LEI — Learn about cost, LOUs, and registration timelines.
- Verify an LEI — Check if a 20-digit string is structurally valid.