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How to Recognize Important Data on Your Personal Checks

May 12, 2010

In today’s world, the use of personal checks has decreased because of the rise in debit cards and the online banking. But, personal checks are still used for people who like to pay bills, purchase things, and for use in business.

There are a wide selection of checks to choose from from check printing companies.  You can select from literally thousands of personal check designs.  In fact, you may find that you can express your individuality through the check designs that you choose. You never know, you might even get compliments when you use designer personal checks.

To be safe, you should be able to identify important information on your personal checks.  Do you knwo what the numbers on your checks mean?  You may have been asked for the routing number of your bank account, and that number can be found on your check.

There are three sets of numbers on your personal checks that are important for you to know.  Where is the routing number?  It’s in the lower left hand corner.  Okay, so what is the routing number?  It’s a nine digit number, the first four of which identify the United States Federal Reserve’s check processing center.  The next four number are representative of your specific bank that processes your checks.  The last number is a digit used for verification.

You may recognize the next set of numbers.  They are on the lower left side of your check and are your personal account number.  These numbers are the same on all your checks.  Often there is a third set of numbers, which represents the check number. 

The great thing about personal checks is that you can print your name, address and phone number. Some check printing companies allow you to customize them further by including a photo.  This is good for businesses too, as it means you can put your logo on your checks, furthering your marketing plan.

People use debit cards more than personal checks these days, but checks are still being used.  You can find hundreds of styles and designs available from various online retailers – the checks unlimited.  If you frequently use debit cards, make sure to utilize debit card registers and holders to help you keep track of spending, just as you would if you were writing a check.


Posted in: Personal Finance |