MICR line decoder for checks and cheques
Paste or type the numbers printed along the bottom of a check. The decoder splits out the routing number, account number and check number, and validates US routing numbers with the ABA checksum.
Type T for ⑆ (transit), U for ⑈ (on-us), $ for ⑇ (amount) and D for ⑉ (dash). Decoded in your browser; nothing is sent anywhere.
- Country format
- United States
- Routing (ABA) number
- 011000015 (checksum valid)
- Account number
- 9876543210
- Check number
- 004512
How to read the bottom of a check
A US check usually reads, left to right: an optional check number between on-us symbols (business checks), the 9-digit routing number between transit symbols, then the account number followed by an on-us symbol and, on personal checks, the check number. Canadian cheques use the same layout, but the routing field is a 5-digit branch transit number and a 3-digit institution number separated by a dash symbol.
Frequently asked questions
What is a MICR line?
The line of magnetic-ink characters printed along the bottom of a check. It holds the routing number, the account number and usually the check number, separated by special E-13B symbols.
What do the MICR symbols mean?
The transit symbol (⑆) surrounds the routing number, the on-us symbol (⑈) ends the account number field, the amount symbol (⑇) surrounds an amount encoded by the bank, and the dash symbol (⑉) separates parts of a number, such as the Canadian transit and institution numbers.
How is a routing number validated?
US routing numbers carry a check digit. Multiply the digits by 3, 7, 1, 3, 7, 1, 3, 7, 1 and add them up; a valid routing number gives a total divisible by 10.
Is my check data sent anywhere?
No. The decoder runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you type is uploaded or stored.
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