By: Jacob Maslow

Grow your business in a more organized manner by using business checks to make and track your purchases. Consider the amount you travel for business, your branding needs, and frequent purchases when choosing checks. There are several options to choose from that will help you write checks quickly, provide receipts, and keep reliable records.

Review Your Accounting and Purchasing Methods

Many people use software to manage their books or work with a professional accountant who can cut authorized checks. Look for check suppliers with compatible options for printing at home or through a third party. Some business checks fit easily in your wallet or portfolio and will typically contain less information. One page of printed specialty checks may contain three larger checks with or without a stub. Business owners often like to provide a side-tear stub for people who want a receipt for a business transaction. Smaller checks and larger checks may come with side-tear stubs or with two to three copies per check.

Branding Matters

Make sure your business checks make the right impression and support all the effort you put toward growing your business. Shop vendors who can print your logo and business information properly with the right type of quality in the quantity you need. Some vendors only print large runs of fancy checks at more normal prices for certain types of checks. Consult with a reliable sales representative regarding your long-term needs and the types of purchases you make. Some checks may require a certain amount of design and may not always be easy to use with other types. Your representative should have a solid knowledge of your industry, accounting requirements, security issues, and purchasing preferences. Keep in mind the amount of checks you use and what will happen when you need to order or change a design.

Consider Your Security Needs

Some checks are made for general purchasing and will have security additions that will prevent fraud, check copying, and banking delays. You can also order checks made for specific uses or industries that enable better verification and safer deposits. Your checks may come with watermarks, UV designs, magnetic ink, and treatment that makes them readable when dirty or smudged.

Ask about paper and ink combinations that are difficult to copy, secure printing techniques, specialty fonts, foils, and more. Some manufacturers provide checks that will withstand a significant amount of water and are made to pass certain security standards. Your vendor may be able to cooperate with other professionals in your network regarding current check issues with the right authorization.

You can purchase checks that are sized and printed for use in three-ring binders. This format is preferred by some offices for accounting and filing purposes and is helpful during audits and tax season. Plan ahead with help from people who understand your security and purchasing concerns, and ask people about their business needs. Certain vendors or contacts may be able to cash some types of checks easier and will appreciate the time you save them. 

Published by: Martin De Juan