Checking accounts are a popular type of bank account that allows you to deposit money that is available for withdrawal at any time. Usually, you can withdraw money by visiting the bank, using a debit card or by writing checks. In this age of technology, many people choose to use debit cards most of the time. Some may not even own checks, but there are times when checks come in handy, such as when you need to write a check for your rent, for a down payment or for a utility company without web bill-pay options. Fortunately, it is very easy to order checks to use with your checking account.
Ordering Checks: Merchant Options
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Begin by asking your bank if they have free checks available to customers. For instance, Capital One offers free checks to customers who open a 360 Checking Account. If you have never had checks for your checking account before, many banks will cut you a deal and give you your first set of checks for free. Not all banks do this, but it is worth asking.
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You might also look online for places to order checks from if your bank does not offer them free of charge. You can often find checks for a better price online than through your bank. Compare prices and decide who has the best deal.
Ordering Checks: Design Options
It can be fun to decide what design you want on your checks. Some people prefer a plain blue or green check, while others like personalized designs with cartoon characters, religious symbols or even family photographs. You will also need to decide if you want single layer checks or duplicate layer checks with a carbon layer that will help you to keep track of your spending.
Ordering Checks: Basic Required Information
Most companies offer similar online check order forms. You will need to provide the company with your routing number which is nine digits long and starts with 0, 1, 2, or 3. You will also need to provide the company with your bank account number. If you do not have this information, your bank should be able to provide it to you. You can also see if the information is available on bank statements you have gotten in the mail from your financial institution.
The order form will also ask you to pick a starting check number. It is interesting to note that you do not have to start with the number one. Sometimes, a vendor automatically starts at 1,000 or 2,000, but you can enter any starting number you'd like.
Shipping and Quality Considerations
It is important to consider what kind of shipping to purchase and whether or not to put a rush on your order. If you need your checks quickly, you may be able to pay more to have the company print your checks sooner and also pay more for priority or overnight shipping.
If you are not in a rush, the standard handling and shipping charges should be just fine. According to Plain Finances, some vendors even offer free shipping options, which could save you some additional money.
Make sure that you review your checks when they arrive in the mail to make sure that your banking information, name and address are all correct. If they are not, the check printing company should replace your checks for free. Providing everything is correct on your checks, you are now ready to use them wherever they are accepted.