In this article, we’re sharing everything you need to know about a cheque transit number.
This will include an explanation about what a cheque transit number is, a comparison to other numbers found on your cheque, and answers to common questions we receive.
This article is part of our free series on how to send and receive money, including bank checks, bank transfers, and more, which you can access by clicking here right now.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to the sections most relevant to you.
Table of Contents
- Cheque Transit Number
- Transit Number vs Cheque Number
- Routing Number vs Institution Number
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Do You Want Help Opening Bank Accounts?
Cheque Transit Number
Cheque transit number refers to a five-digit numerical code that identifies the specific branch where an account is held. The cheque transit number is the second number, following the cheque number, which is listed at the bottom of a cheque. After the transit number, the institution number and the issuing account number are presented.
Transit Numbers vs Cheque Numbers
The main difference between transit numbers and cheque numbers is that the transit number refers to the specific branch where an account is held while the cheque number refers to the specific cheque being issued.
Both transit numbers and cheque numbers are located on the bottom of a physical cheque. The cheque number appears first and is three or four digits while the transit number immediately follows the cheque number and is five digits. The institution number and account number then follow the transit number in the sequence of numbers listed.
Where Can I Find My Cheque Number?
You can find your cheque number on the bottom of a cheque at the front of the sequence of numbers. The cheque number is either three or four digits and is in the first location, before the transit number, institution number, and account number.
Where Can I Find My Account Number?
You can find your account number at the bottom of a cheque tied to your account, on your account statement, in your online bank account, and through a mobile banking app. Importantly, if you are locating your account number on a physical cheque, it is the final grouping of numbers listed, following the cheque number, transit number, and institution number.
Routing Number vs Institution Number
The main difference between a routing number and an institution number is that the routing number is a combination of the transit number and the institution number, and the institution number is just the number indicating the financial institution where the account is held.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Below are three of the most common questions we receive from people looking into what a cheque transit number is. If you have further questions you would like to ask our team, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Is a Transit Number the Same as a Branch Number?
Yes, a transit number is the same as a branch number in Canada. This number is immediately after the cheque number at the bottom of cheques in Canada. It is a five-digit number that indicates the specific branch of the account. Importantly, the three numbers following the transit number are separate, and form the financial institution number, which is then followed by the account number.
Is a Transit Number the Same as a Routing Number in Canada?
No, a transit number is not the same as a routing number in Canada. Instead, the transit number only indicates the specific branch of the account while a routing number indicates the branch and the specific bank. In other words, routing numbers include both the transit number and the financial institution number.
Can You Find Transit Numbers Online?
Yes, you can find transit numbers online. In fact, you can login to your online bank account and find the transit number within your account information. Of course, it is also possible to search the internet for your specific bank, branch, and transit number. However, it is always best to verify the transit number through your online banking as this ensures the number you have is accurate.
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