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Charles Dervarics

Guide to Getting the Most from Check Writing Software

How to put specialized check software to the best use

By Charles Dervarics, Writer/Editor

It can save time and money. Check-printing software gives your business the flexibility to print quality bank checks immediately in a secure environment. An added benefit: You're never left with stacks of unused preprinted checks when your bank changes names or you move to a new address.

To get the most out of check-writing software, you need a three-part strategy:

  1. Assess your needs based on your accounting system and the number of checks you write.
  2. Find a secure solution with maximum flexibility.
  3. Purchase a laser printer that can handle required coding quickly and easily.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done


Find compatible programs

Check-writing software must be flexible to enough to deal with multiple bank accounts and different types of accounting software.
I recommend: Contact CheckMaster, which works with any accounting software and will use your own scanned signatures.

Seek other cost savings

Some vendors also may include ancillary products or services that can increase the efficiency of your check disbursement system.
I recommend: Contact ChequeScribe, which also has equipment for finishing and mailing, or Check Writing Partner, which can help balance your checkbook.

Keep it simple

Use Quicken or QuickBooks in a very small business? Look for software that prints checks directly from these systems.
I recommend: Consider CheckMagic, which prints off these programs with a custom logo and signature.

Take one step at a time

Some software solutions allow you to move gradually from preprinted checks to a blank check system, one office or division at a time.
I recommend: Check out PayPilot, which touts its versatility and provides detailed audit trails for accountability.

Consult a specialist

Check-writing software has many advantages, but you may need an integrator who can make it part of a broader accounting and document management system.
I recommend: Contact Xtension Technologies, which designs customized solutions to meet check-writing and other document management needs.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

  • Make sure your software produces a magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) line at the bottom of your checks. Banks and clearinghouses use this line to clear checks through their systems.
  • Your software program must follow American Bankers Association and ANSI X9B standards.
  • Use standard MICR toner cartridges in a laser printer to ensure proper check coding, and buy toner cartridges in bulk.
  • Check-writing software should reduce theft. Unlike preprinted bank checks with your business and bank information, blank checks used by these programs are customized only as needed.

The official source of Getting the Most from Check Writing Software is
the Check Writing Software page at Business.com

Business Checks & Deposit Slips
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Checks
Online seller of checks, deposit slips and envelopes. Compatible with Quicken/QuickBooks/Peachtree and all types of software.
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Check Writing Software Resources
Find check writing software. Search listings and reviews of retailers, specialists and services in your local area now.
JustClickLocal.com
Related Resources

Recommended Solution Providers

Greatland
Check Launch software prints checks from Quicken, QuickBooks or Microsoft Money on blank paper.

G7 Productivity Systems
VersaCheck software works alone or with Quicken, QuickBooks, Money and other programs to print checks.

CheckMagic
Print checks directly from Quicken or QuickBooks on blank check paper.

Academy Systems
Print checks with a stand-alone system or one compatible with Quicken, QuickBooks and Peachtree.

Trans-Micro
Check Factory software works inside your accounting software to print checks on blank paper.

Capella Technologies
Check printing software produces customized MICR checks on standard printers.



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