Check fraud happens more than we think. It’s one of the easiest ways fraudsters can steal from your business when proper security features aren’t used on your checks.
But using the best business check paper can prevent this devastation from happening to you.
We’ve put together this quick guide to help you choose the best business check paper, so you can protect your company against fraud.
What is business check paper?
Simply put, business check paper is the paper used for printing checks. There are many types of business check paper and even more ways to categorize them. The paper you need will depend on different factors—the amount of security you want to have in place, the software you use to issue checks, and pre-printed vs blank sheets.
The easiest way to determine which check paper works with your software is to look at where the check is positioned on the paper—is it at the top, middle, or bottom of the page?
Top-positioned checks are the most popular because of their compatibility with many accounting applications.
There’s also an option called 3-to-a-page checks which is the style most preferred for handwritten checks or Quickbooks users.
Each style of business check paper will have stubs or portions that can be kept for tracking purposes.
How to choose the best business check stock
Your payroll and bookkeeping software will determine which style of business check paper you need, but there are still some decisions to make for your wants—pre-printed or blank paper? And how much security?
In the not so distant past, you’d have to purchase your business checks from banks with very limited options. But in this digital era, there are some trusted online sources that have all kinds of options with different levels of security features to suit your needs.
Pre-printed vs blank check paper
Pre-printed paper makes it easy for an employee to steal from you. The bank routing numbers and account numbers are already on the check so all it takes is a bit of craftiness—like forging signatures—to commit the crime.
Tack on the added time to log and keep track of check inventory and the protocols necessary to keep your employees accountable. Not to mention the hassle of voiding misprinted checks.
Using
blank check paper with security features is a more efficient and secure way to go since the routing and account numbers don’t get added until printing is done. No more wasted time logging inventory, voiding misprinted checks, or worrying about employees taking advantage of a situation.
Some security features that are used on pre-printed and blank checks are:
- A watermark on the back of the check
- Serial numbers for tracking
- Fluorescent fibers that are detected only under UV light
What type of paper is used for checks?
Any type of paper can be used for printing checks, but most accounting programs require check stock paper. We highly recommend using a textured check stock paper for added security. The toner can’t be scraped off without an obvious smooth area appearing, foiling the attempt at reusing the check.
Reduce fraud with the best business check paper
Reducing the possibility of check fraud is worth investing in. We’ve given you a bit of insight you can use when choosing the best
business check paper. There are options that’ll interface with your existing software systems, and you can choose between low security pre-printed check paper, to high security blank check paper.
At Printerm, we’re always available to share the knowledge acquired through our many years of experience with our clients. We know the importance of reducing costs associated with issuing checks, and are committed to partnering with you to make your business more efficient.
Have questions or need information about choosing the best check paper for your business? Want to learn how you can prevent check fraud?
Contact us to set up a consultation.
