Buying check writing and printing software can be a little tricky. Which features do you need? Which ones don’t you need? Here’s a quick run-down of the questions you should ask when considering check writing and printing software for your small business.

1. Will this software work with both blank and pre-printed checks?
Blank checks are less expensive, but you may already have pre-printed checks you want to use. Or you may find a reason down the road for needing to print on pre-printed checks. Having versatility keeps your options open.

2. Does the software have MICR printing capability?
This is especially important if you are printing on blank checks as you’ll need to adhere to banking regulations that require printing account and routing numbers in MICR format.

3. Will the software be easy to use?
Don’t get stuck with software that requires an accounting degree to use or is confusing and frustrating. Look for screen shots of the software interface. Can you easily identify the functions on the screen? If so, this is probably software that is easy to use.

4. Can the software import data from other applications?
Computer applications should save you time. If you can’t import data from your accounting software or other applications and you have to enter it by hand, you might as well be writing the checks by hand. At an absolute minimum, it should be able to import .csv and .qif file formats.

5. Is it compatible with the accounting software you use?
If you use software like ezTimeSheet, Excel, Quick Books, or Microsoft Money, make sure the product description specifically mentions compatibility with the software you use.

6. Is it affordable?
Don’t over pay for check printing software. Quality check writing and printing software is available online for as little as $24. There’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars.

7. Will the software let me customize my checks?
Your business checks should reflect your brand and personal image. You never know whose hands your check may pass through and notice your business name and logo. Make sure you can customize the look of and information on your checks.

8. Can I try it before I buy it?
Few things are more frustrating than parting with good money for a software program only to find that you don’t like it. Make sure the seller has a risk-free trial opportunity and that you can get all your money back if you don’t like it. Better yet is a trial period that doesn’t require payment until you’re sure it will work for you.

9. Can the software export check data for reports?
This handy feature will make your life easier in many ways. Don’t get stuck compiling check reports by hand.

10. Will the software print logos on my checks?
You can’t fully customize your checks if you can’t put your logo on them. Keep the look of your business checks consistent with other branding efforts and maintain your professional image.

11. Can it print signature graphics on the checks?
If you print more than a few checks at a time, having to sign them all manually can be a tedious chore. The ability to create a signature image and print it on checks automatically will save you a lot of time and help you avoid writer’s cramp.

12. Can I use the software with an MICR printer if necessary?
You may be printing checks on your laser printer now, but if your company grows and you end up printing hundreds or thousands of checks each month, you may find it economical to switch to an MICR printer. But why switch software too? Plan for the future and you can stick with the software you’ve become familiar with.

13. Will the software run on my computer?
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it often gets overlooked. Make sure the software you buy is compatible with the version of Windows or MacOS that you have on your computer. If you aren’t using the most recent version of Windows or MacOS, make sure the check printing software is also compatible with the most recent version so you can upgrade when you’re ready.

One check printing software in particular has all of these features and is affordable for even the smallest businesses. ezCheckPrinting from www.halfpricesoft.com/product_ezCheck.asp costs just $24 per installation. And you can even get it free through online special offers.

Author Bio: About halfpricesoft.com http://www.halfpricesoft.com/product_ezcheck.asp Founded in 2003, Halfpricesoft.com has established itself as a leader in meeting the software needs of small businesses around the world with its payroll software, employee attendance tracking software, check writing/printing software, W2/1009 software and barcode generating software.

Category: Business
Keywords: bank checks, free check software, check printing, check writing software, accounting, payroll, paych