Magnetic Ink Character Recognition, or MICR, is a technology used mainly in banking to verify the legitimacy and authenticity of paper documents, especially checks. MICR devices read special fonts printed with magnetic ink, allowing machines to process information quickly and accurately.
The most common use of MICR is in reading the numbers at the bottom of checks—such as bank codes, account numbers, and check numbers. These characters are printed in a special MICR font and can be read even if the document has markings or damage, thanks to the magnetic properties of the ink.
MICR technology enhances security, speeds up processing, and reduces human error. It’s particularly valuable in high-volume environments where financial transactions need to be verified quickly and reliably.