Modern technology is supposed to make your life easier. However it has also created a new breed of criminal. As technology rapidly expands to include new ways to protect your money, criminals find new ways around these security measures. The incidences of check fraud continue to increase each year despite the security features offered by technology.



Small businesses are constantly looking for ways to cut costs and increase efficiency. One way to achieve this is by printing your own checks. Purchasing the equipment and software needed to print your own checks can be a pricey investment but it can make check printing more secure and overall less costly than having your checks pre-printed. Not only will you save money, the security that comes with printing your own checks can be viewed as an investment in the safety of your company's finances if you follow a few basic steps.

Printing checks requires the use of MICR Technology. MICR or Magnetic Ink Character Recognition when used properly involves the use a computer, a laser printer, MICR toner, check printing software with micr fonts, and blank check stock with security features. It is important to understand how and why each of these items is used for check printing.

1. Blank check stock is cheaper and more secure than pre-printed check stock. Blank check stock is more secure than regular checks as the all important banking account information is only printed when the check is printed. Businesses can print their checks using their own fonts and logos when using blank check stock. Pre-printed check stock can be stolen by criminals who need only to fill in the blanks to use the checks.

2. The Computer - Your typical desktop computer will work. The computer currently on your desk is probably capable of printing MICR check printing. You will use it to print the checks and to store information about checks and finances.

3. MICR-compatible software will be used to print the special characters, or MICR fonts and signatures used on the checks. Not all accounting software can be used to print MICR lines on checks so make sure that you have the correct tools. You may be able to use your regular accounting software, however, several companies offer software specifically for check printing.

4. Laser printers provide the fastest and most reliable MICR printing. Make sure to do your research and buy a printer that can be used with MICR toner cartridges. Most HP and Lexmark mono-chrome, or black only laser printers have MICR Toner Cartridges available for use in check printing. MICR Toners are usually not developed for color laser printers.

5. MICR toner is a special toner that contains iron oxide that gives the toner magnetic properties. The magnetic check line can be read by reader-sorter machines in banks. This allows checks to be processed quickly and accurately.

When printing your own checks, make sure that you limit the number of people who have access to your check printing utilities. Also keep the check printing equipment locked in a secure area. With the right equipment and proper safety measures, printing your own checks can be a wise investment.