Your Check Security

With the increasing level of sophistication forgers possess, it takes a very special paper to have criminals bypass your business checks. In fact, if you do not use checks that contain reasonable security features consistent with industry standards, you can be held liable for those checks. When ordering checks for your business or even personal use, be certain  that they meet or exceed the industry standard security features to protect yourself.

When it comes to check security, there are two main issues you must defend against. The first is theft prevention, and the second is check alteration. Both issues can cost you time and money to resolve, unless you take security measures.

The most common solutions to possible theft prevention are locking up your pre-printed check stock or printing your own checks. Most people who lock up their checks either secure them in a locked desk drawer or in the company safe. Wherever you secure them, make sure that it is an area that limits access. Therefore, should someone steal checks you can make sure the list of suspects is short.

The other option is to print your checks on blank check stock. This is an option that is not usually cost effective for customers as compared to pre-printed check stock. When considering this option, you need to purchase MICR ink (special ink for printing checks), a printer that can print with MICR ink, blank check stock, and software that will print checks. Blank check stock becomes cost effective when you have multiple checking accounts or high volume check printing. However, when it comes to check security printing your own checks is the best solution, so the cost of security is a value choice a consumer needs to make for their own situation.

Regarding check alteration, as mentioned above, you need to make sure that the check you use meet industry standards. Industry standards include coloration on the paper, micro-print signature line, proper printing of bank information like fractional routing numbers on the check and proper MICR code in the check code line. Additional security features include fluorescent fibers inside the paper, watermarks, chemical erasure protections, padlock icons, and specific patterning available with custom checks (like embedding your logo into the paper of the check and the vouchers themselves).

Of course, the first step in check security is to order your check stock from a trusted supplier well versed in the industry standards. Whether that is EGP Checks or another source, be sure that you inquire about the security features of your check stock before you buy.