Choosing and Buying Business Checks

Facilitate bill-paying and record-keeping with the right checks
By John Fuller When you open a business checking account, it's customary to order your first set of checks through the bank. However, on subsequent orders, your bank may not be the best bet for checks. Independent check printers generally offer a wider selection at a lower cost. They usually offer faster service, too.

Although business checks are relatively inexpensive, they serve a number of functions. Choose business checks that:

1. Look professional
2. Reflect the image of your business
3. Include security measures to avoid fraud
4. Fit properly with your software, printer and mailing envelopes

 

Manual three-up checks

Manual business checks are typically arranged three-up on a page with a stub for reference. With this method, you fill in the check and then record the information a second time on the stub.
Try: Choose from several three-up designs at CheckCrafters.com or CheckWorks.com.

Manual one-write checks

One-write checks have a carbon strip on the back that captures the information you write for future reference. With this method, you don't need to re-enter information for recordkeeping.
Try: One-write checks are just some of the many business checking products available from NEBS.

Computer-generated checks

With an accounting software program and a laser or dot-matrix printer, you can print your own checks. Computer-generated checks can be pre-printed or blank. Blank check stock costs less than pre-printed checks and allows you to update information, such as your address, without having to order new checks.
Try: At DeluxeForms.com and ChecksUnlimited.com, you can select your accounting program to view compatible pre-printed laser checks and blank laser check stock. Find checks for continuous printing on dot-matrix printers at BusinessChecksUSA.com.

Select custom check designs

Many check printers can put your logo on your check, but if you want a unique graphic design, you'll have to find a printer who offers customization.
Try: CheckCrafters.com offers custom photo checks, and DMI Business Printing at ChecksForms.com provides services to help you design your own custom checks.

Starter kits

Many check printers offer starter kits that include everything you need for check writing, including the checks, a register, deposit slips, endorsement stamp and more.
Try: Choose from several starter kits from EiPrinting at ChecksForLess.com or try one from CheckAdvantage.com.

Avoid check fraud

Choose checks that use proven security measures to minimize your risk, such as background patterns that are difficult to duplicate and chemically sensitive paper that changes color when chemically altered.
Try: View some of the security features commonly used to reduce the chances of check fraud at ChecksInTheMail.com.

Invest in a check register

Sorting through check stubs is inefficient and time-consuming. With a bound check register, you can track transactions as you go and maintain a record by date.
Try: Order ring books or desk books from EiPrinting.com at ChecksForLess.com.

• Verify the bank routing code on your checks before ordering a new set.
• Checks designed for laser printers are usually arranged with one or three checks per page — choose one per page if you only write a few checks at a time.
• Most check printers offer discounts when you order large quantities, say 5,000 checks. However, if you think you may change locations in the near future, hold off on ordering large numbers of pre-printed checks.
• Choose a company that keeps track of previous orders so you don't have to waste time providing specs every time you reorder.
• Ask the check vendor for a fraud insurance policy in case someone hacks into your account to order checks in your name or steals your checks.