Printing Your Own Checks

Quick answer

• You can print your own checks from home if you have compatible software, a printer, and blank check stock.
• Ensure your printed checks meet banking standards for readability and security features.
• Verify MICR ink requirements for the magnetic ink character recognition line at the bottom of the check.
• Use secure check printing software that can prevent fraud and manage your checkbook digitally.
• Always confirm with your bank before printing your own checks to ensure compliance.
• Keep your check stock and printing supplies secure to prevent unauthorized use.

Who this is for

• Small business owners looking to streamline bill payments and reduce costs.
• Individuals who need a convenient and cost-effective way to manage personal finances.
• Anyone seeking more control over their checkbook and a digital record of transactions.

What to check first (before you act)

Your Bank’s Requirements

Before you even think about printing, reach out to your bank. They have specific requirements for checks, including layout, security features, and the type of ink used. Failure to comply can result in your checks being rejected, causing payment delays and potential fees. Ask about:

• MICR ink specifications (especially for the routing and account numbers).
• Required security features (like microprinting or watermarks).
• Any specific formatting guidelines.

Check Printing Software

There are various software options available, from dedicated check printing programs to accounting software with check printing capabilities. Consider:

• Features: Does it handle recurring payments, track balances, and offer security features?
• Compatibility: Does it work with your operating system and accounting needs?
• Cost: Are there one-time fees or subscriptions?

Blank Check Stock

You’ll need to purchase blank check stock. This paper is designed for check printing and often includes security features. Look for:

• Stock that is compatible with your printer (size and weight).
• Stock with built-in security features, such as microprinting, watermarks, or security screens.
• Ensure it’s designed for laser or inkjet printers, depending on what you own.

Your Printer

Not all printers are suitable for check printing. You’ll need a printer that can:

• Print with sufficient precision for the MICR line.
• Handle the weight and type of blank check stock.
• A laser printer is often recommended for its crisp print quality and ability to handle MICR ink effectively.

Your Goal and Timeline

Why do you want to print your own checks? Is it to save money, gain convenience, or manage business expenses more efficiently? Understanding your primary goal will help you choose the right software and stock. Your timeline also matters; if you need to start printing immediately, ensure you have all necessary supplies and bank approval first.

Step-by-step (how to print a check)

1. Confirm Bank Approval:

• What to do: Contact your bank and ask for their specific requirements for customer-printed checks. Get this confirmation in writing if possible.
• What “good” looks like: You have a clear understanding of all bank specifications and they have given you the go-ahead.
• Common mistake: Assuming your bank will accept any check you print.
• How to avoid it: Don’t skip this crucial step. It’s better to get it right the first time.

2. Choose Check Printing Software:

• What to do: Research and select software that meets your needs and budget. Look for features like MICR ink compatibility, security options, and ease of use.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve found software that is reputable, compatible with your system, and offers the features you require.
• Common mistake: Choosing the cheapest or most basic software without considering essential features like MICR support.
• How to avoid it: Read reviews, compare features, and ensure the software explicitly states MICR compatibility.

3. Purchase Blank Check Stock:

• What to do: Buy blank check stock that is compatible with your chosen software and printer. Ensure it has the necessary security features.
• What “good” looks like: You have high-quality, secure blank check stock that fits your printer and meets bank requirements.
• Common mistake: Buying generic paper or stock without security features.
• How to avoid it: Purchase check stock specifically designed for printing checks from reputable vendors.

4. Install and Configure Software:

• What to do: Install your chosen software on your computer and follow the setup instructions. This often involves entering your bank’s routing number and your account number.
• What “good” looks like: The software is installed correctly, and all your banking information is accurately entered.
• Common mistake: Typos in routing or account numbers, which will render the check unusable.
• How to avoid it: Double-check every digit when entering your bank information.

5. Set Up MICR Ink:

• What to do: Ensure your printer is loaded with MICR ink or a compatible cartridge if required by your bank and software.
• What “good” looks like: You have the correct ink installed and your software is configured to use it for the MICR line.
• Common mistake: Using standard black ink for the MICR line, which won’t be readable by bank machines.
• How to avoid it: Verify with your bank and software provider whether special MICR ink is mandatory and purchase it accordingly.

6. Design and Preview Your Check:

• What to do: Use the software to lay out your check, including payee, amount, date, and memo. Preview the check carefully to ensure everything aligns correctly.
• What “good” looks like: The preview shows a perfectly aligned check with all information clear and legible.
• Common mistake: Not previewing or proofreading, leading to misaligned text or incorrect payee information.
• How to avoid it: Always use the software’s preview function and print a test page on plain paper first.

7. Print a Test Check:

• What to do: Print a single check on plain paper or a blank check stock sheet to verify alignment and print quality.
• What “good” looks like: The test print is perfectly aligned, and all text is crisp and readable.
• Common mistake: Printing directly onto valuable check stock without testing.
• How to avoid it: Print on scrap paper or plain paper first. Adjust settings as needed before using your actual check stock.

8. Print Your Actual Checks:

• What to do: Load your blank check stock into the printer and print the required checks using the software.
• What “good” looks like: Your checks are printed accurately, with clear text and correctly formatted MICR line.
• Common mistake: Printer jams or smudged ink during printing.
• How to avoid it: Ensure your printer is clean and functioning correctly. Use appropriate paper settings in your software.

9. Verify Printed Checks:

• What to do: Inspect each printed check for any errors, smudges, or alignment issues.
• What “good” looks like: Every printed check is flawless and ready to be used.
• Common mistake: Sending out a check with a visible error.
• How to avoid it: Take a moment to visually inspect each check before signing and sending it.

10. Secure Your Supplies:

• What to do: Store your blank check stock, MICR ink cartridges, and software securely to prevent unauthorized access or printing.
• What “good” looks like: Your check printing materials are in a locked drawer or safe.
• Common mistake: Leaving check stock or printer access open, risking fraud.
• How to avoid it: Treat your blank check stock like cash.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Not checking bank requirements	Rejected checks, payment delays, potential fees, inability to use printed checks.	Contact your bank first and get their specific requirements for MICR ink, security features, and formatting.
Using standard ink for MICR line	Checks will not be processed by automated banking systems, leading to returns.	Purchase and use MICR ink cartridges or toner as specified by your bank and software provider.
Incorrect routing or account numbers	Checks will be rejected by the bank, funds will not be transferred correctly.	Double- and triple-check all numbers when entering them into the software. Print a test page to verify MICR line readability.
Poor print quality or alignment	Unreadable checks, potential for fraud, rejection by the bank.	Use a reliable printer, preferably a laser printer. Utilize software preview features and print test pages on plain paper before using actual check stock.
Using unsecured blank check stock	Increased risk of check fraud and counterfeiting.	Purchase blank check stock with built-in security features (watermarks, microprinting, security screens) from reputable vendors.
Not using security features	Higher susceptibility to counterfeiting and alterations, leading to financial loss.	Ensure your software and check stock support security features like microprinting, void pantographs, or security threads.
Improper storage of supplies	Unauthorized printing of checks, leading to fraud and financial losses.	Store blank check stock and MICR ink cartridges in a secure location, such as a locked cabinet or safe. Limit access to authorized individuals.
Not proofreading before printing	Errors in payee name, amount, or date, leading to payment issues or disputes.	Always use the software’s preview function and carefully proofread every detail before printing. Print a test check to confirm all elements are correctly placed.
Overlooking software security features	Vulnerability to digital fraud, unauthorized access to financial data.	Choose check printing software with robust security features, such as password protection, encryption, and audit trails. Keep your software updated.
Not verifying the MICR line readability	Checks bounce or are returned, causing inconvenience and potential fees.	After printing, use a MICR reader if available, or visually inspect the MICR line for clarity and correct character formation. Some banks offer tools to verify this.
Printing too many checks at once	Wasted stock if an error occurs mid-print run, or if details need to be changed.	Print checks in smaller batches, especially when first starting or when printing for new payees. This minimizes waste if a problem arises.
Ignoring software updates	Security vulnerabilities, compatibility issues, or missing new features.	Regularly check for and install software updates. These often include security patches and performance improvements.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If your bank requires specific MICR ink, then you must purchase and use MICR ink cartridges because standard ink won’t be read by automated systems.
• If you are printing checks for a business, then you should use accounting software with check printing capabilities because it helps track expenses and manage cash flow.
• If your check stock doesn’t have security features, then consider using software that can print void pantographs or other deterrents because it adds a layer of protection against counterfeiting.
• If you are printing a high volume of checks, then a laser printer is generally recommended because it provides sharper print quality and better MICR ink adherence than most inkjet printers.
• If you are unsure about alignment, then print a test check on plain paper multiple times, adjusting settings each time, because wasted check stock can be costly.
• If you are printing checks for the first time, then start with a small batch to ensure everything is correct before printing a larger quantity because errors on many checks are difficult to correct.
• If your bank rejects your printed checks, then review their specific requirements again and compare them to your printing setup because you likely missed a crucial detail.
• If you need to track payments digitally, then choose check printing software that integrates with accounting software or offers its own tracking features because it simplifies record-keeping.
• If you are printing checks for personal use and only occasionally, then a simpler, less expensive software might suffice, but ensure it still meets bank requirements because cost shouldn’t compromise functionality.
• If you encounter frequent printer jams with check stock, then check your printer’s manual for paper handling guidelines and ensure you are using the correct paper weight and type because some printers are more sensitive than others.
• If you want to prevent unauthorized use of your printed checks, then secure your blank check stock and MICR ink cartridges in a locked location because they are valuable assets.
• If your software allows for check signing automation, then understand the security implications and use it cautiously because it can be a convenience but also a risk if not properly secured.

FAQ

Can I really print my own checks at home?

Yes, you can print your own checks from home using specialized software and blank check stock. This can be a cost-effective solution for individuals and small businesses.

What is MICR ink, and why is it important?

MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) ink is a special type of ink used to print the routing and account numbers at the bottom of checks. It’s magnetic and allows bank sorting machines to read the numbers accurately.

Will my bank accept checks I print myself?

Most banks will accept customer-printed checks, but you must ensure they meet specific formatting, security, and MICR ink requirements. Always check with your bank first.

What kind of printer do I need?

A laser printer is generally recommended for printing checks due to its ability to produce crisp, clear text and handle MICR ink effectively. However, some inkjet printers may also work, depending on the model and ink used.

Is it cheaper to print my own checks?

For individuals writing a few checks a month, it might not be significantly cheaper than ordering from a bank or online vendor, especially when factoring in software and specialized paper costs. For businesses with higher check volumes, it can offer substantial savings.

What security features should I look for?

Look for blank check stock with features like microprinting, watermarks, security screens, and void pantographs. These make it harder for counterfeiters to replicate your checks.

What happens if my printed check is rejected?

If a check is rejected, it’s usually due to formatting errors, unreadable MICR ink, or missing security features. You’ll need to correct the issue and reprint the check, which can cause payment delays and potential fees.

Can I use regular printer paper?

No, you should not use regular printer paper. You need specialized blank check stock designed for printing checks, which often includes security features and the correct weight and texture.

How do I get my bank’s routing and account numbers onto the check?

Your check printing software will prompt you to enter your bank’s routing number and your account number. The software then formats these numbers correctly for the MICR line at the bottom of the check.

What if I make a mistake on a printed check?

If you make a mistake before signing, you can void the check and reprint it. If the mistake is after signing, you’ll need to issue a stop payment order with your bank and then reprint the check.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Detailed comparisons of specific check printing software (research software based on your needs).
• Legal requirements for business checks in specific states (consult a legal professional for business-specific advice).
• Advanced fraud prevention techniques beyond standard security features (explore cybersecurity resources).
• Specific tax implications of business expenses related to check printing (consult a tax advisor).
• How to order checks from a bank or online vendor if you decide against printing your own (check your bank’s website or search for online check vendors).