Check basics, writing and records, understood.
Start here if you are ordering checks for the first time, or writing one you are unsure about. The ordering guides list the details a check needs, explain the routing number, the account number and the MICR line, and compare ordering online with ordering from your bank.
The writing guides cover filling in a check with cents, voiding, endorsing, how long a check stays good and mobile deposit rules. Voqado sells wallet, laser and three per page business checks. Bank details go into an encrypted form after you pay, never into the designer. Start with the check printing guide.
Start here: Check printing: a complete guide for small businesses.
All check basics, writing and records guides
START HERECheck basics, writing and records · 6 MIN READ
Check printing: a complete guide for small businesses
Check printing explained for small businesses: formats, the MICR line, bank data, security features, software fit, proofs, costs and when to reorder.
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Check basics, writing and records · 6 MIN READ
Will my bank accept these checks? What banks check
Banks read the MICR line, not the printer name. What they check, what Voqado checks state and do not claim, and what to do if a check is rejected.
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Check basics, writing and records · 6 MIN READ
How to order business checks: a step by step walkthrough
How to order business checks in seven steps: choose a format, confirm bank data, set numbering and submit numbers securely. There is no customer proof stage, so check every digit before you pay.
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Check basics, writing and records · 6 MIN READ
What information do you need to order checks?
The information you need to order checks: account name, address, bank name, routing and account numbers, starting number, format and quantity.
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Check basics, writing and records · 6 MIN READ
Ordering checks online vs from your bank: cost, speed and safety
Where is the cheapest place to order checks? Compare banks, online printers and printing your own on price per check, delivery time and security.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
Check sizes and dimensions: personal, business and voucher
Check size dimensions in inches: personal wallet checks, business desk checks and laser voucher sheets, plus the ANSI size limits and MICR clear band.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
Parts of a check: every line and number explained
The parts of a check explained: payer block, check number, date, payee, amount box, written amount, bank name, memo, signature and the MICR line.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
Routing number vs account number: how to find each on a check
Routing number vs account number: one identifies your bank, the other your account. See where each sits on a check and how to verify both.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
What is MICR? The magnetic line at the bottom of every check
What is MICR? Magnetic ink character recognition: the E-13B line of routing, account and check numbers printed in magnetic ink so bank machines can read it.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
MICR toner: do you need it to print your own checks?
Do you need MICR toner? Yes if you print the bank line on blank check stock; no if the checks arrive with the MICR line preprinted. Costs, risks and setup.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
What number should your checks start at?
What number should checks start at? Continue from your last check plus one. New business accounts often start at 1001 or higher; personal at 101.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
Business checks for an LLC: name, DBA and what to print
Business checks for an LLC: print the legal name exactly as the account is titled, add a DBA line only if the bank allows it, and keep the EIN off the check.
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Check basics, writing and records · 6 MIN READ
Business checks with a logo: file prep and placement
Business checks with a logo: place it top left beside your company block, keep it out of the MICR band, and supply a vector file or 300 ppi image.
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Check basics, writing and records · 6 MIN READ
How to write a check: a step by step guide with examples
How to write a check in six steps: date, payee, amount in numbers, amount in words, memo and signature, with worked examples, common mistakes and a register.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
How to write a check with cents (and amounts under a dollar)
How to write a check with cents: write dollars in words, then cents as a fraction over 100, like 50/100. Examples for round, odd and under a dollar amounts.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
How to void a check for direct deposit or a mistake
To void a check, write VOID in large letters across the front in ink without covering the numbers at the bottom, then record it. Plus direct deposit options.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
How to endorse a check: blank, restrictive and mobile deposit
How to endorse a check: sign the back inside the endorsement area, add For deposit only for safety, and use your bank's wording for mobile deposit.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
How long is a check good for? Stale dates and void after notices
Most personal and business checks are good for six months, after which banks may refuse them. Rules for void after notices, cashier's and Treasury checks.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
How to balance a checkbook and keep a check register
How to balance a checkbook: record every transaction in a register, then match it to your statement, list outstanding items and fix differences.
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Check basics, writing and records · 5 MIN READ
Mobile check deposit: limits, holds and the paper check
How mobile check deposit works: endorsement wording, deposit limits, how long funds can be held, and how long to keep the paper check before shredding it.
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