Check Requirements

• For the checks you print to be considered legal, they must contain magnetic ink character recognition (MICR). This is the string of numbers and symbols in the lower left-hand corner of the check. It has to follow a certain format and includes the account number, the routing number and the check number. It has to be printed using magnetic toner, or the check will not be considered valid and there is a specific font for it. Check writing software that includes this font is important. The option of using different MICR codes will allow you to work from different accounts.
  
  

Designing Checks

• The variety of available programs allow for differing levels of customizations. The MICR Line is probably the most important of these, because it establishes the validity of your check. However, some programs also allow you to add your business logo to your checks and to write checks using data from other programs you use to store payment information. Some offer a printable signature, although you may not want such an option if you're concerned about the security of your computer. Other programs offer password protection, which may allay some of your concerns.
  
  

Accounting Software

• Software comes with different kinds of accounting features. Some are extensive, offering options not only for personal checking, but for small business as well. However, such an option is unnecessary for a personal checking account and may serve only to take up extra space on your hard drive. Offer accounting software features include the ability to handle multiple accounts and calculate current balances. Some include a checkbook register, even search and find options to locate specific checks. Others will track recurring payments or allow you to store expense reports, income reports and tax information.
  
  

Technical Support

• Most programs offer embedded help centers, email support and FAQs. However, other programs include technical support in the form of user manuals and guides, tutorials and telephone support. In a few cases they even support user forums where you can go to ask your question or discuss given features of the software and its uses. If you're new to financial or check writing software and feel you may need support setting it up or learning to use it, go with software that offers the technical support that suits your needs.
  
  

Pricing

• This varies widely from one program to the next, and price is not the best indication of quality. Some of the higher priced programs offer small business features, but may not allow you to create tax reports or may not contain an embedded calculator. There is also mid-priced software that offers many or all of the features that the high-priced programs include and some that have extras. There are also low cost programs that offer many of the same features. Judge first by what features you need and make price a secondary consideration.