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# How to enter your bank account numbers correctly

Entering the right numbers is **a critical step**: a single reversed digit or a missing number can lead to the “account not found” error and block the setup of the withdrawal.

## Where to find your numbers

You have two reliable options:

1. **Your void cheque / direct deposit form** (PDF) available in your online banking — often called **“Void cheque”, “Direct deposit information” or “Pre-authorized debit”**. This document shows exactly the numbers to use. (For example, banks offer a “cheque / direct deposit information” page to print or download.)
2. **A paper cheque** (if you have one): look at **the line of numbers at the bottom** of a **voided** cheque. It contains everything you need to read for the PAD.

## The 3 numbers to enter

On a Canadian cheque, you will always find:

- **Transit (branch) number**: **5 digits** — identifies your branch.
- **Institution number**: **3 digits** — identifies your bank.
- **Account number**: **variable length** (often 7 to 12 digits) — identifies your account.

⚠️ The **first block** (often 3 digits) is the **cheque number**: **do not** enter it in a PAD form.

Example (fictitious) as shown on a void cheque:
`001 12345 999 00123456789`
— `001` = **cheque number** (ignore)
— `12345` = **transit**
— `999` = **institution**
— `00123456789` = **account**

## Special case: the check digit

Some institutions, **such as Desjardins**, add a **check digit** at the end of the account number.
👉 This digit is an integral part of the account number. When your void cheque or direct deposit PDF shows it, you must copy it **in full**, without removing or changing it.

`001 |  30303 | 815 | 123 | 456 | 7`
— `001` = cheque number (ignore)
— `30303` = transit (5 digits)
— `815` = institution (Desjardins code, 3 digits)
— `123 | 456 | 7` = account (7 digits — includes the **check digit**; keep all zeros)

## What the PAD form will ask for

A standard PAD form will ask for **exactly** this information: **institution number (3)**, **transit number (5)**, **account number (complete)**, plus your contact details and the authorization (mandate).

## Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

- **Mixing up transit and institution** → check that the **transit = 5** digits and the **institution = 3** digits.
- **Entering the cheque number** (the very first block) → **do not** copy it.
- **Removing a “check digit”** when your bank displays one → **keep all the digits** of your account number as shown on the void cheque. (Some accounts include a check digit in the account number.)
- **Using the wrong type of account** → make sure the account allows **withdrawals** (most chequing accounts, and often some savings accounts, are compatible). Refer to your bank’s document.
- **Name mismatch** → the **account holder’s name** must match the **paying tenant**. If the cheque or void cheque is in someone else’s name (e.g. a spouse, parent, or company), the bank may refuse the PAD.

## If you don’t have a cheque

Almost all Canadian banks let you **download a “void cheque / direct deposit” PDF** from your online banking. This PDF is the **reference**: print it or copy the numbers **exactly as they appear**.

## Did you know…

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👉 [Access the training](https://www.plexflow.ca/formation)
💡 An excellent way to save time and use Plexflow to its full potential.