A MICR code is the 9-digit number printed at the bottom of every cheque. MICR stands for Magnetic Ink Character Recognition — a technology that lets machines read cheque details quickly and accurately, even if the cheque is folded or stamped. It is how banks sort and clear millions of cheques every day.
What the 9 digits mean
A MICR code such as 400240015 has three parts:
- First 3 digits (400): the city code, matching the city’s PIN code prefix.
- Middle 3 digits (240): the bank code.
- Last 3 digits (015): the branch code.
Where to find your MICR code
Look at the white band along the bottom of a cheque — the MICR code is printed there in a distinctive magnetic font, right after the cheque number. It is also shown on the first page of your passbook and inside most bank apps under branch details.
MICR vs IFSC — what’s the difference?
They identify the same branch but serve different systems. The IFSC code (11 characters) is used for online transfers like NEFT, RTGS and IMPS. The MICR code (9 digits) is used for cheque clearing. You will sometimes be asked for the MICR code when setting up auto-debit (ECS) mandates. See our full IFSC vs MICR vs SWIFT comparison.
Why magnetic ink?
The characters are printed with iron-oxide ink that can be magnetised, so reader machines recognise them reliably and they are very hard to forge — an early and still-effective anti-fraud measure.
Frequently asked questions
How many digits is a MICR code?
A MICR code is 9 digits: 3 for the city, 3 for the bank and 3 for the branch.
Where is the MICR code on a cheque?
In the white MICR band along the bottom edge of the cheque, printed just after the cheque number in a special magnetic font.
Is the MICR code the same as the IFSC code?
No. MICR is a 9-digit code for cheque clearing; IFSC is an 11-character code for online transfers. Both point to the same branch.
Do I need the MICR code for NEFT?
No. NEFT, RTGS and IMPS use the IFSC code. MICR is mainly used for cheques and some ECS auto-debit mandates.
Limits, charges and procedures are set by the RBI, NPCI and individual banks and can change. Always confirm current details in your own bank’s app before a transfer. Last updated June 2026.