Definition of MICR Line

MICR stands for Magnetic Ink Character Recognition, a special type of printing. The term "MICR line" refers to the series of numbers that appear along the bottom of a check and that are printed using MICR.

Identification

The MICR line on the check contains the account number that the check is to be drawn from and the nine-digit American Bankers Association-assigned routing number that identifies the bank. Most checks also include the check number within the MICR line.

Function

The MICR line of a check is able to be scanned by specialized machinery and is used by banks to automatically deduct money. Checks are returned to the bank on which they were originally drawn.

Features

The ink used on the MICR line has a special magnetic quality that is difficult to reproduce. This deters check fraud. Each character in the MICR line may take up only one-eighth of an inch.

Development

The look and placement of the MICR line on checks was developed by the American National Standards Institute, which periodically reviews standards for printing and makes changes when necessary.

Geography

The MICR line on checks is used throughout North America as well as in some other parts of the world.

Considerations

Because the MICR line on the check is necessary for proper processing, most banks will not accept checks where the line is damaged, blurred or torn off.

References

• Elfring Fonts: What is MICR?

Resources

• American National Standards Institute