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Why Safe Online Ordering Matters
Ordering personal checks online is convenient, cost-effective, and offers access to hundreds of designs that your bank may not carry. However, checks contain sensitive financial information — your name, address, bank routing number, and account number — so it's essential to follow a safe, methodical ordering process. This guide walks you through every step, from verifying the retailer to completing a secure checkout, so you can order with complete confidence.
Ordering checks online is safe when you follow the right steps.
Step 1: Verify the Website Is Legitimate
Before entering any personal or financial information, confirm that you're on a legitimate, secure website. Here are the key indicators to check:
- HTTPS encryption: The URL should begin with
https://and display a padlock icon in the browser address bar. This means the connection between your browser and the website is encrypted. - Trust seals: Look for recognized security badges such as Norton Secured, McAfee Secure, or BBB Accredited Business seals. These indicate the site has been vetted by a third-party security service.
- Clear contact information: A legitimate retailer will display a physical address, phone number, and customer service email prominently on the website.
- Professional design: Phishing sites often have broken links, poor grammar, and low-quality images. A well-maintained, professional website is a strong signal of legitimacy.
Step 2: Gather Your Banking Information
You'll need the following details from a current check or your bank's records. Having everything ready before you start the ordering process will save time and reduce the risk of errors.
| Information | Where to Find It |
|---|---|
| Full name(s) on account | Your bank records or existing checks |
| Address on file | Your bank statement or online banking portal |
| Bank name | Printed at the top of your current checks |
| Routing number (9 digits) | Bottom-left corner of your checks |
| Account number | Bottom-center of your checks |
| Starting check number | Continue from your last used check |
Step 3: Choose the Right Check Type
Checks Unlimited offers several check formats. Understanding the differences will help you select the right one for your needs:
Single Checks
The most common and affordable option. Each check is a single sheet with no copy. Best for customers who don't need a record of each transaction (or who track transactions digitally).
Duplicate Checks
Each check comes with a self-copying backing sheet that automatically creates a record of every transaction. Ideal for customers who want a physical paper trail without writing each transaction in a register.
Side-Tear Checks
Checks that tear off from the side rather than the top, making them easier to remove from a checkbook. Popular with customers who write checks frequently.
Step 4: Select a Design and Personalize
With over 240 designs available, choosing a design is one of the most enjoyable parts of the ordering process. Consider these factors:
- Rotation sets: Some designs come in sets of four, so each check in the box features a different image. This adds variety without changing your check's functionality.
- Matching accessories: Many designs have matching checkbook covers, address labels, and self-inking stamps. Ordering a matching set gives your checkbook a coordinated, professional look.
- Font selection: Most check retailers offer multiple font choices for your personalization text. Choose a clear, legible font — decorative fonts can be harder for banks to process.
- Monograms and icons: Some designs allow you to add a monogram or decorative icon next to your name for a personal touch.
Step 5: Review Security Features
Modern personal checks include multiple built-in security features designed to deter fraud and tampering. When ordering, look for products that include the following:
- Microprinting: Extremely small text embedded in the check border or signature line. It appears as a solid line to the naked eye but becomes readable under magnification. Photocopiers cannot reproduce it accurately.
- Chemical-wash protection: The paper is treated so that any attempt to chemically remove ink will visibly stain or discolor the check, making tampering obvious.
- Watermark: A faint image embedded in the paper itself, visible when held to light. It cannot be photocopied or scanned.
- Erasable ink protection: A special coating prevents ink from being physically scraped or lifted off the paper surface.
- Toner anchoring: On laser-printed checks, the toner is chemically fused to the paper fibers so text cannot be scraped off with tape or blades.
According to the American Bankers Association, checks with multiple security features are significantly less likely to be successfully altered or counterfeited. Always choose checks with at least three built-in security features.
Step 6: Complete a Secure Checkout
Once you've personalized your checks and reviewed the security features, it's time to complete your purchase. Follow these guidelines for a safe checkout:
- Verify the URL: Confirm the checkout page URL still begins with
https://and shows the padlock icon. - Review your order summary: Double-check the check type, quantity, design, and personalization details before proceeding to payment.
- Apply coupon codes: Enter any applicable promo codes before finalizing payment. See our Coupons & Deals page for verified codes.
- Choose a payment method: Use a credit card rather than a debit card when possible — credit cards offer stronger fraud protection under federal law.
- Save your confirmation: After completing the order, save the confirmation email and order number. You'll need these if you need to track the shipment or request a reprint.
Additional Safety Tips
- Order from a private network: Avoid placing orders over public Wi-Fi. Use your home network or a mobile hotspot instead.
- Use strong passwords: If you create an account on the retailer's site, use a unique, strong password that you don't reuse elsewhere.
- Monitor your bank account: After placing an order, monitor your account for any unauthorized charges. Report suspicious activity to your bank immediately.
- Store checks securely: When your checks arrive, store them in a secure location — not in an unattended car or an unlocked desk drawer.
- Shred old checks: When you switch to a new design or a new account, shred your old checks rather than throwing them away.
Conclusion
Ordering personal checks online is a safe and straightforward process when you follow the right steps. By verifying the website, gathering accurate banking information, choosing the right check type, reviewing security features, and completing a secure checkout, you can protect your financial data while enjoying the convenience and design variety that online retailers like Checks Unlimited provide. For more guides, reviews, and savings tips, explore the rest of our site — and don't forget to check our Coupons & Deals page before placing your order.