Can I Use Regular Paper to Print Cheques?

While it is perfectly legal in the United States to print your own checks, you should avoid using plain paper to do so. It’s best to purchase check stock paper that is designed specifically for printing checks, and typically comes with features such as microprinting, watermarks, erasure protection, anti-photocopying background and more. These types of paper are usually a little more expensive than plain paper, but they can provide you with peace of mind and help prevent fraud by making it difficult for unauthorized users to alter your checks.

You can find check stock paper at most office supply stores and online. If you work with a bank that processes payroll, they may also offer this type of paper for free or at a discounted price.

When it comes to printing your own checks, the most important thing is to follow banking standards and use MICR fonts. These are special numbers that appear on the bottom of your checks and other financial documents, and they must be printed with magnetic ink so that bank machines can read them.

The other main requirements to keep in mind when creating your own checks are the payee details and the amount you’re paying. You’ll want to make sure that your name and address are clearly visible in the upper-left corner of the check, and you should include a reference to your bank account number (either your routing number or your account number) somewhere on the check. You’ll also need to add the date, and your bank’s fractional number if they have one.