Check Formats Explained

Personal checks come in several different formats to meet the needs of different personalities and lifestyles.

The format of your checks are strictly a personal matter if you are purchasing checks for yourself. If you are purchasing personal computer checks, you need to make sure the check format you are ordering is compatible with your accounting software.

1. Top Tear – The most common type of check. These checks are in a wallet style and are perforated at the top for easy tearing out of the binding.
2. Side Tear – Checks that are perforated with a side binding. Less time to tear out and for those with larger hands, allows more area for the hand to fit comfortably while writing.
3. Single Checks – Wallet style checks without any type of copy. Can be top tear or side tear. A bit less expensive and a great choice if you never forget to write the information down. Better choice for a neat freak.
4. Duplicate Checks – Wallet style checks with a carbon type paper between each check. This type of check is convenient in case you often forget to write the transaction in your check register. Can be top tear or side tear. The copies are flimsy paper that can get ratty looking over time and also hard to read. You need something between the copy and your next check so that your writing does not go thru to the next copy.
5. Personal Computer Checks – If you use an accounting software like Quickbooks® or Microsoft Money®, you’ll want computer checks. They are 8-1/2″ x 11″ sheets of paper with three checks to a page. They can be used with inkjet or laser printers. Very convenient for paying many bills in the same sitting.
6. Desk Sets – Not the most popular format of checks, they are three on a page and can be contained in a small binder. A great choice if you do not use computer software AND do not like to carry your checkbook around with you.