Are Pre-Printed or Blank Check Stock Better?
When ordering business checks, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to use pre-printed checks or blank check stock. Both options are widely used by businesses, but the best choice depends on your accounting process, security requirements, and how often your business information changes.
Understanding the advantages of each option can help you choose the right solution for your company.
What Are Pre-Printed Checks?
Pre-printed business checks come with your company name, address, bank account information, routing number, check numbers, and often your logo already printed on the check. Your accounting software simply prints the payee, date, amount, and other transaction details.
For many businesses, this is the traditional and most common option.
Benefits of Pre-Printed Checks
Professional Appearance
Pre-printed checks create a polished, consistent look that reinforces your company's brand. Adding your logo also helps increase recognition and presents a more professional image to vendors and customers.
Improved Security
High-security pre-printed checks include features such as microprinting, artificial watermarks, security screens, chemical sensitivity, and heat-reactive ink. These features help reduce the risk of fraud and check alteration.
Easy to Use
Since the banking information is already printed, there is less chance of accidental printing errors or alignment issues when processing payroll or accounts payable.
What Is Blank Check Stock?
Blank check stock is secure paper that contains built-in security features but does not have company or bank information pre-printed. Instead, your accounting software prints all information—including the company name, bank account details, MICR line, and payee—at the time each check is issued.
This option offers greater flexibility but requires compatible accounting software, a MICR toner cartridge, and proper printer configuration.
Benefits of Blank Check Stock
Maximum Flexibility
Businesses that manage multiple bank accounts or frequently update banking information can print different account information using the same blank check stock.
Lower Inventory Requirements
Rather than stocking separate checks for each account, one supply of blank stock can often be used across multiple accounts or business entities.
Reduced Waste
If your company changes its logo, address, or banking information, you won't have unused pre-printed checks that must be discarded.
Which Option Is Better?
For most small and medium-sized businesses, pre-printed business checks remain the preferred choice. They are easy to use, highly secure, compatible with most accounting software, and present a professional appearance with minimal setup.
Blank check stock is an excellent solution for larger organizations or businesses with complex accounting environments that need greater flexibility and centralized check printing.
Summit Printing Can Help
At Summit Printing, we offer both pre-printed business checks and high-security blank check stock designed to work with today's leading accounting software. Whether you need QuickBooks-compatible checks, custom logo checks, or advanced fraud protection, our team can help you choose the solution that best fits your business.
If you're unsure which option is right for your company, contact Summit Printing today. We'll help you compare your options and ensure you receive secure, professional checks that meet your operational needs.
