Printing checks at home can give you more control, save money, and prevent those frustrating moments when you run out unexpectedly. But it’s not as simple as hitting “Print” on a regular piece of paper. Banks use specific technology and security features to process checks safely.
Before you decide to print your own checks, it’s important to understand the tools, supplies, and setup involved and whether it makes sense for your situation.
Why Some People Print Their Own Checks
Printing your own checks can be useful if you:
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Run a small business and write checks regularly
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Want to avoid paying high fees for bank-ordered checks
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Need checks immediately and don’t want to wait for shipping
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Want customized designs with your logo or personal style
Example:
A freelance designer who pays vendors monthly might save money by printing checks at home instead of ordering new checkbooks several times a year.
However, if you only write one or two checks a year, the setup cost and effort probably aren’t worth it.
What You Need to Print Checks at Home
To print checks properly, you’ll need a few key components.
1. Check Printing Software
You can’t use just any word processor. Check printing requires special formatting so banks can read the information correctly.
Check printing software helps you:
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Format checks properly
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Insert your bank routing number and account number
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Track payments automatically
Some popular financial software already includes check printing features, such as:
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Quicken Inc. (Quicken software)
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Intuit (maker of QuickBooks)
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Xero Limited (cloud accounting platform)
These programs also record your transactions automatically, which makes budgeting and bookkeeping much easier.
Example:
If you print a rent payment check using accounting software, the system logs the payment instantly so you don’t forget later.
2. Check Stock Paper
Check stock is specially designed paper with built-in security features. This helps prevent fraud or tampering.
Common security features include:
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Watermarks
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Microprinting (tiny text difficult to copy)
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Security warnings
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Pre-perforated edges for easy separation
This paper costs more than regular printer paper, but it protects you from check fraud.
You can buy check stock online or from office supply stores.
3. A Compatible Printer
Most home printers will work, including:
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Inkjet printers
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Laser printers
You don’t need an expensive printer. The key requirement is compatibility with check printing software and proper alignment.
Example:
A standard home laser printer is usually sufficient for printing personal checks.
4. MICR Line and Font
At the bottom of every check, you’ll see a string of numbers. This is called the MICR line, and it includes:
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Your routing number
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Your account number
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Check number
Banks use this line to process your check quickly and accurately.
The special font allows machines and humans to read the information easily.
5. Magnetic Ink (Sometimes Optional)
Magnetic ink was traditionally required so bank machines could read checks automatically.
Today, it’s less critical because banks often use:
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Optical scanners
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Mobile check deposits using smartphone photos
Some people still use magnetic ink for extra compatibility, but many modern systems work fine without it.
An Easier Alternative: Pre-Printed MICR Checks
If magnetic ink or MICR setup feels complicated, there’s a simpler option.
You can order checks with the MICR line already printed. Then you use your home printer to fill in:
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Payee name
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Amount
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Date
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Memo
This saves time and avoids dealing with specialized ink.
When Printing Your Own Checks Makes Sense
Printing your own checks is usually worth it if you:
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Write checks frequently
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Run a business
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Want customization
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Want long-term cost savings
It may not be worth it if you:
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Rarely use checks
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Only need occasional payments
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Prefer convenience over setup effort
Example comparison:
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Someone writing 100 checks per month → Printing makes sense
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Someone writing 3 checks per year → Buying checks is easier
Quick Solution: Counter Checks From Your Bank
If you only need one or two checks, ask your bank for counter checks.
These are temporary checks printed with your account information.
Common uses include:
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Setting up direct deposit
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Paying a one-time expense
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Providing proof of bank details
Banks usually charge a small fee, but it’s much easier than setting up home printing.
Pros and Cons of Printing Your Own Checks
Advantages:
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Saves money over time
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Prevents running out of checks
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Allows customization
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Convenient for businesses
Disadvantages:
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Initial setup cost
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Requires special supplies
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Takes time to learn and configure
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Printing your own checks can be a smart solution if you use checks regularly especially for business or frequent payments. The upfront setup may take some effort, but it can save money and give you full control.
However, if you only use checks occasionally, ordering them from your bank or using counter checks is usually the simpler option.
A good rule of thumb:
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Frequent check users → Print your own
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Occasional users → Buy or request checks from your bank
