MICR line
The row of stylized characters printed along the bottom of a check in magnetic ink, MICR standing for Magnetic Ink Character Recognition. It encodes the routing number, the account number, and the check number so machines can read them reliably. Reading the MICR line is how you find the routing and account numbers to set up a direct deposit or ACH payment.
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What is a voided check?
A voided check is a check with the word VOID written across the front so it can never be filled in or cashed. It still shows your bank's routing number and your account number, which lets an employer or biller set up direct deposit or automatic payments without you authorizing any money to move.
Getting a voided check with no checkbook
If you bank with Chime, Varo, Cash App, Ally, or SoFi, you have no paper checks to void — but you do not need one. Most online banks generate a pre-filled direct deposit form in-app, and that form, your routing and account numbers, or a bank verification letter give an employer the same proof.