Check Anatomy...
Locating the Correct Routing and Account Numbers
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There are Routing/Transit Numbers and Transit Symbols on all checks. The technical name for it is the MICR line which stands for Magnetic Ink Character Recognition. The MICR line is what the financial institution reads electronically for record keeping and security purposes. These special numbers and symbols on the MICR Line identify your financial institution and your bank account so that funds can be tracked and transferred correctly.
Your financial institution scans all of these numbers and symbols electronically in order for it to appear on your monthly statement. Look at any check and you will be able to locate all this information at the bottom of it.
Below is a simple graphic to help you determine how to find the correct routing and account numbers on your checks.
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Routing/Transit Number - Routing/Transit numbers are normally 9-digits. This is the number that identifies the financial institution (Bank, Credit Union, etc.) where your account is located. |
Account Number - |
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Check Number - |
Tips for error free ordering!
- Checking and savings accounts do have different numbers. Be sure you double check the numbers on the actual check you are looking at before submitting your order. (Some people have made the mistake of taking the numbers from a deposit slip - which in turn will create checks that pull from your savings account!)
- If you do not have an old check you can look at -- you can get your account number directly from your bank statement.
- Be sure to provide all the numbers in a particular group (routing and/or account number). Zeros are just as important before a string of numbers as they are appearing after a string of numbers. Use the graphic to help you determine the correct number sequence.
- The online check order form will refer to the "Next Starting Number". This means they want to know the actual check number you want printed on the first check in your order. Typically when you are "reordering checks" in order to keep your bookkeeping records straight you want to make sure you stay in sequence. Go to your very last check and then order starting at the next numeral. For example, if the last check you have is number 2999 you would ask for the "Next Starting Number" of 3000.
- There is no rule that says you have to ask for the exact "Next Starting Number" if you are ordering checks for the first time from an online merchant. If you wish - you can start your new order with any number. We recommend starting with a fairly high number -- say for example 2000. Some merchants are more comfortable accepting a check with a higher number on it than for instance a check that says 32 or even 132.
- When in doubt - ask! Most financial institutions will be more than happy to give you the correct routing number over the phone if you are unsure.
