digit that is appended to a number so that an accountant can assure the number's correctness following a computation. As the number is utilized in processing, the identical calculation is performed to see if the new check digit is the same as the original one. If so, the number has been read or written accurately. A variation between the check digits indicates an error possibly due to an omission or transposition.
final character in the nine-digit bank transit/routing number ( ABA transit number plus check routing symbol) printed on checks. The check digit, derived by computer from the other digits in the number, is used to validate a bank's transit and routing numbers in check processing. Some banks also use check digits to verify the accuracy of account numbers.
digit that is appended to a number so that an accountant can assure the number's correctness following a computation. As the number is utilized in processing, the identical calculation is performed to see if the new check digit is the same as the original one. If so, the number has been read or written accurately. A variation between the check digits indicates an error possibly due to an omission or transposition.
character added to a string of characters and based on a formula applied against the original group of characters. Check digits are used to verify the accuracy of data entry by comparing the check digit calculated after entry with the check digit actually entered. For example, a key code such as OA34 might have a check digit of 8. The key entry clerk will enter OA348. The computer will then follow the appropriate formula to calculate a check digit and determine whether the resultant check digit matches the character in the fifth position of the key code. If not, one of the four key code characters was presumably entered incorrectly. In an on-line system, the computer will prompt the clerk to reenter the information. In a batch system, the entry transaction will be rejected during update.
