What is MICR Code? Meaning, 9-Digit Format & Where to Find

What is a MICR Code?

MICR stands for Magnetic Ink Character Recognition — a technology used to print machine-readable characters on cheques using special magnetic ink. The 9-digit MICR code at the bottom of every cheque enables automated, high-speed sorting and processing in bank clearing systems, dramatically reducing manual errors and processing time.

In India, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) mandates MICR coding for all cheques processed through the Electronic Clearing System (ECS) and Cheque Truncation System (CTS).

Structure of a MICR Code

A MICR code is exactly 9 digits, divided into three parts:

City Code (1–3)	Bank Code (4–6)	Branch Code (7–9)
400	002	009
Mumbai	State Bank of India	Fort Branch

Digits 1–3 — City Code: Identifies the city where the bank branch is located (e.g. 400 = Mumbai, 110 = Delhi, 500 = Hyderabad)
Digits 4–6 — Bank Code: Unique 3-digit code identifying the specific bank
Digits 7–9 — Branch Code: Identifies the exact branch of the bank within that city

MICR vs IFSC — Key Differences

MICR: 9 digits — used for physical cheque processing via ECS/CTS; printed in magnetic ink
IFSC: 11 characters — used for electronic fund transfers (NEFT, RTGS, IMPS); no physical media needed
Both appear on your cheque leaf; both identify your bank branch — but for completely different transaction types
MICR is read by magnetic scanning machines; IFSC is entered digitally by the sender

Where to Find Your MICR Code

Printed at the bottom of every cheque leaf in the distinctive E-13B magnetic ink font
On the first page of your bank passbook (some banks include it)
On your bank's official website — branch locator pages often list MICR codes
In your net banking or mobile app under branch/account details
By contacting your bank branch directly

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a MICR code?▼

MICR stands for Magnetic Ink Character Recognition. It is a 9-digit code printed on cheques using magnetic ink that enables automated, high-speed processing and sorting of cheques in the banking clearing system.

How many digits does a MICR code have?▼

A MICR code has exactly 9 digits, divided into three groups of 3: city code (first 3), bank code (middle 3), and branch code (last 3).

Where is the MICR code printed on a cheque?▼

The MICR code is printed at the bottom of every cheque leaf, in a special magnetic ink font (E-13B or CMC-7). It appears between the cheque number and account number at the bottom strip of the cheque.

What is the difference between MICR and IFSC?▼

MICR codes are used for processing physical cheques through the Electronic Clearing System (ECS). IFSC codes are used for electronic fund transfers (NEFT, RTGS, IMPS). Both identify a bank branch, but serve different transaction types.

Is MICR code still relevant today?▼

Yes. Despite the growth of digital payments, cheque-based transactions remain significant in India — especially for business payments, government disbursements and large-value settlements. MICR is still mandatory for cheque processing.

How can I find the MICR code for my bank branch?▼

Check the bottom of any cheque leaf from your account. Alternatively, your bank passbook or the bank's official website usually lists the MICR code for each branch.