[moneytalks] Check printing background and plans

Thanks for the question about check printing.
Here is our plan at this point. We welcome everyone's input.
First, here are some basics about check printing in general.

There are two basic ways that people print checks: they use pre-printed
checks and they fill in only the amount, date, payee, memo, and dollar
fields on the computer; second, they use blank check paper stock, a
laser printer with magnetic ink, and print the complete check (routing
numbers, bank info), and also the info in the check fields. We plan to
support the first method, not the second, for several reasons. to print
the complete check on blank check stock, one needs not only a laser
printer but also a cartridge with extra-strength magnetic ink. Although
some check-writing programs claim that you don't need a laser printer
and a special cartridge, their fine print contains a warning that
regular ink may not register on bank's magnetic ink readers. I spent a
good bit of time researching this method and decided that it was too
cartridge-and-printer dependent and also complex in terms of supporting
the printing of every check detail.

I have experimented with filling in the fields of checkbook checks of
various sizes and the one-to-a-page Quicken Type checks. Some printers
do fine with the small wallet-sized checks that are in regular
checkbooks. On the other hand, some printers can not handle media this
small. Most printers can handle business-sized checks that are in
checkbooks and also the large-print, raised-line checks.  We have
experimented with check templates to hold smaller checks as they go
through printers and have had poor results. If your printer  can hold 3"
X 5" cards, it will probably handle wallet-sized checks. If not, you may
need to order the larger sized ones (business or raised line) from your
bank.

We plan to offer a print check screen where you fill in the information
for the check fields. You will then  print a trial check. You will need
sighted assistance to adjust where the fields are printed on the trial
check. After adjustments are made, you will be able to print checks
simply by tearing them out of your checkbook and putting them in the
printer. If you use the Quicken-type one-to-a-page checks, you will also
be able to print them.

We want your thoughts and ideas on the check-printing process. Please
let us know what you think of the above and give us any other thoughts
that you may have. Personally, I can't wait for the check-printing
feature to be finished; I lost the ability to write my own checks after
my type writer that worked with the optacon broke beyond repair We
really want the check-writing feature to meet your needs, so please keep
your good ideas coming.
Best regards,
Terrie



Mary T. (Terrie) Terlau, Ph.D.
Adult Life Project Leader
Department of Educational and Technical Research
American Printing House for the Blind
1839 Frankfort Ave.
Louisville, KY 40206
Phone:  (502) 899-2381
Toll-free: (800) 223-1839 ext. 381
Fax: (502) 899-2269
Email: tterlau@xxxxxxx

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