Some MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) check printers are capable of handling other printing jobs.  These MICR printers that can do this double-duty are easier to justify the high cost of the initial purchase.

Some MICR check printers offer toner cartridges and software that enable an all-purpose laser printer to print checks.  Most MICR printers are laser printers because of the high quality that can be obtained by using laser printing methods and in many cases, are cheaper to replace the toner cartridges for than other types of toner systems.  If you are looking at a laser printer for printing checks, then you will want to ensure that it is duplex capable, meaning it can print either single or double sided.  The duplex capability is essential for printing endorsement lines and other security features on the back of checks.

MICR check printers use special toner cartridges that work the same as a regular laser cartridge; however they are much more costly.  Some MICR check printers use cartridges that are less expensive or can be refilled. Check on the price of the cartridges before purchasing a MICR printer.  However, the high cost of the MICR cartridges emphasizes the magnitude of quality when you are printing checks.  If checks are poorly printed they will not be read at the financial institutions, and many poorly printed checks could lead to penalty charges that will make your investment in a MICR check printer a bad one.

Protect both your company and your investment in a MICR laser check printer by thoroughly researching the printer before you buy it.  It is also a good idea to check with other businesses that use that particular type of check printer to see how their quality is maintaining itself.

How Do I Know Which Check Printer to Purchase? When you are looking at purchasing a check printer, one of the best things to do is research that particular printer.  One of the best ways is to find other companies that use that particular brand of check printer and find out about their quality with the check printer.

You should look for a MICR printer to print your checks. MICR, or Magnetic Ink Character Recognition check printers use a special type of toner that is recognized in electronic process systems that are commonly used by banks and other financial institutions. The ink imbeds the information of the check in the MICR ink, which can not be altered or changed in any way and helps to prevent check fraud.

When you are looking at MICR check printers, you should purchase one that meets the standards that are set out by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Bankers Association (ABA). The standards outlined by ANSI and the ABA lay out particulars about MICR printing signal strength, font quality and permanence. Again, it would be helpful to find other companies that use the printer to find out about their success rates with checks clearing the banks that were printed with their MICR check printer and if they have had any incidences of check fraud.

You will also want your check printer to be duplex capable, meaning that it can print either single or double sided.  If you are printing checks, it is imperative that you can print double sided for the endorsement line on the back of the check, as well as other security features.