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Replacement Checks
When you've used up all your checks, you
have two options:
- Reorder checks through your bank. You'll
probably be able to select from a limited
number of designs. Maybe they offer only
one design.
- Order new checks from a third party. If you
want another outlet for self-expression,
you might select a non-traditional check
design. Literally hundreds are available
and from numerous vendors. Some accept orders
by mail, some online, and some either way.
When shopping for new checks,
there are a
few basic considerations:
- Cost - Most banks charge for additional checks.
Usually, the price reflects the fact that
they knew people reorder from them because
of the simplicity and safety of doing so.
However, banks don't print the checks themselves,
so you can save a considerable amount (as
many people do) by ordering directly from
a check printer.
- Security - To order checks from a third party, you
must supply your bank's routing number and
your own checking account number, which are
printed across the bottom of the check. This
information, while seeming to be personal,
really isn't because anyone to whom you give
a check sees these numbers. In addition,
most printers will require that your address
be printed on the checks and that the new
checks be mailed to that address. And, of
course, they will need the same information
any merchant needs for processing a sale
(credit card number, expiration date, etc.).
However, no legitimate printer needs to
know your account passwords, PINs, balances,
etc.
- Bank policy -In general, your bank should have no problem
with your using a third party printer, since
the routing number account number and check
number should appear across the bottom of
your new checks in a standard format used
by all banks. Still, if you are concerned
that there might be a problem, check with
your bank before ordering.
- Bank logo - Checks ordered directly from your bank
will be imprinted with the bank's name and
logo, as well as your name and address. Determine
from the third-party printer how the bank's
name and logo will appear on your new checks.
If they are missing, or if they appear in
a nonstandard format, that may affect the
acceptance of your checks.
Ordering replacement checks online or by
mail has become a simple way to save money.
In dealing with the major check printers,
the two biggest reasons for choosing one
over the other is cost and check appearance,
both of which can be found online. |
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