MT700 Field 39B: Field Contradicts Other Fields

Introduction

Field 39B of the SWIFT MT700 records the Maximum Credit Amount using format 13x (up to thirteen characters). The field is optional and typically states an upper ceiling such as "MAXIMUM" or a specific cap. Because 39B bounds the total drawable amount, a conflict between 39B and 32B, 39A, or the tolerance structure is a frequent source of credit discrepancies.

This guide covers how 39B contradicts other MT700 fields, why those contradictions occur, and how to resolve them.

Failure Modes

1. 39B below the 32B amount. When the stated maximum is lower than the credit amount in 32B, the credit allows no compliant drawing at the stated amount.
2. 39B inconsistent with 39A upper bound. The 32B amount plus the 39A positive tolerance may exceed 39B, contradicting the ceiling.
3. 39B present but 32B missing. Without 32B, the maximum has no reference amount to cap.
4. Malformed 39B value. The 13x rule limits the field to thirteen characters; an over-length or mis-structured entry breaches the format.
5. 39B currency mismatch. Where 39B implies a currency, it must match the 32B ISO 4217 code; a mismatch contradicts the single-currency assumption.

Resolution

1. Confirm 32B is present and correct before setting any 39B ceiling.
2. Verify that 39B is at least equal to the 32B amount so a compliant drawing is possible.
3. Compute 32B × (1 + 39A positive tolerance%) and confirm the result does not exceed 39B.
4. Apply the 13x format — keep the maximum expression within thirteen characters.
5. Ensure 39B currency (where expressed) matches the 32B ISO 4217 code to clear the T52 consistency expectation.
6. Where 39B and 39A conflict, issue an MT707 amendment reconciling the ceiling and the tolerance.
7. Return contradictory instructions to the applicant for a reconciled maximum and base amount.
8. Record the Article 30 basis in the credit file so the ceiling is auditable on renewals.

Conclusion

Field 39B caps the drawable amount. Its contradictions with 32B and 39A are preventable by confirming the maximum is at least the base amount and that the tolerance-extended draw stays within it. Article 30 supplies the rule that makes the ceiling enforceable.

FAQ

1. Is 39B mandatory? No. It is Optional.
2. What format does 39B use? 13x — up to thirteen characters for the maximum credit amount.
3. Can 39B be lower than 32B? No. A maximum below the credit amount makes the credit defective.
4. Which UCP article governs 39B? Article 30 (Tolerance in credit amount, quantity, unit prices), the maximum / "not exceeding" provision.
5. How does 39A relate to 39B? 39A's upper bound, added to 32B, must not exceed the 39B ceiling.

Source Notes

Context only. SWIFT MT700 field 39B specification (SWIFT SR2018 Category 7): format 13x, Optional, definition (Maximum Credit Amount), MT700 Usage Rules (MT 701) and network rules C2/C3/C4. UCP 600 relationship: Article 30 (Maximum / not exceeding tolerance). UCP 600 text in provided dossier; citations only, no long passages reproduced.