MICR Setup

Understand the MICR line

What each part of the bottom line means and how to get it accepted by your bank.

Last updated Aug 3, 20266 min read

The MICR line is the row of characters at the bottom of a check. It is read by high speed sorting equipment, so both the character shapes and their position have to be correct.

What the line contains

Segment	Contents	Notes
Check number	Your sequence number	Position varies by bank
Routing number	Nine digits between transit symbols	Validated by checksum
Account number	Your account, followed by the on us symbol	Format set by your bank

Getting it accepted

Print with MICR toner, or MICR ink if your inkjet supports it, when your bank requires magnetic readability.
Keep the band at the bottom of the check clear of logos, lines, and text.
Verify the position with a MICR test page before printing live checks.
Ask your bank for a specification sheet if a check is ever rejected.