What Is A Counter Check?
Counter checks are temporary checks that your bank branch will provide in the following situations:
- When you first create a checking account and,
- When you run out of preprinted checks and need a personal check right away.
These are, in essence, generic checks that allow you to access your account to make payments to third parties. Counter checks are presumably familiar to everyone who has ever established a new checking account.
Because a supply of customized checks takes a few weeks to arrive, the bank will provide you with a modest supply of counter checks to make payments until they come.
Counter checks are legal mechanisms that can be negotiated. You can read third party check also if not know about that.
In today’s age of rapid access, checks do not suit well! So, when you run out of checks, you will need to order them several weeks ahead of time so that they come printed with your information.
If you are in a hurry and have run out of checks before your fresh ones come, your bank can usually provide you with several fast counter checks to cover your interim needs.
Read More:
6 Simple steps to write checks in correct way.
A Teller Or Bank Personnel Can Print Counter Checks
Before your official checks arrive, you will most likely be handed many counter checks when you initially open an account at a bank.
They will be pre-loaded with your account information and will work in the same way as normal checks.
Your ABA routing number and account number appear at the bottom of each check in that familiar computerized MICR font.
Some banks include your name and address as well, but counter checks are typically pretty simple, and shopkeepers can usually tell when you’re using one.
How Can You Get Counter Checks?
- Visit a branch of your bank or credit union to obtain a counter check.
- Before visiting the branch, call ahead to ensure that counter checks are available.
- Learn about the procedure and whether you will need to employ a specific branch. Of course, because there is no branch to visit, you will not be able to get counter checks if you use an online-only bank.
- When you arrive at the branch, request that the teller or personal banker print the checks, verify your identification, and perform any other procedures that the bank requires.
- You should have your checks in your hands in a matter of minutes!
How To Fill Counter Checks?
A counter check can be written in the same way as any other check:
- In the upper-right corner, write the date.
- Put your payee’s name next to “Pay to the order of.”
- In the box on the right, write the check’s amount in numeric form.
- On the line beneath the payee line, write the amount in words.
- If you wish, you also can provide a memo or any other reference material.
- Near the bottom-right corner of the cheque, sign it.
Your personal information may also need to be written on the check, usually in the upper-left corner. Some banks will print details for you.
If not the bank, the person to whom you are writing the check will most likely want to know how to contact you if there are any issues. They may, for example, request that you submit your name and phone number as a bare minimum. Retailers frequently want your address as well as your driver’s license number.
Counter checks Are Not The Same As Cashier’s Checks
Counter checks are distinct from cashier’s checks, which are also checks printed on demand by your bank. Payee information is printed on cashier’s checks, which are for “cleared” or guaranteed monies. Counter checks do not ensure payment, and the payee information must be completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of a counter-check?
Fees for counter checks vary, but you may expect to pay a few bucks. Chase bank, for example, charges $2 for each page of three checks.
What is the quickest method for receiving checks?
Counter checks may be the most expedient way to receive checks. If you have the correct printer and paper, you might be able to print these at home.
If you don’t live near a bank, local printing companies may be able to assist you.
How to use fewer checks?
If you’re running out of checks and you’re in this situation frequently, try using fewer checks.
Take advantage of technology to use fewer checks :
- For recurring monthly payments like energy bills and insurance premiums, set up automatic payments using ACH.
- Use the online bill payment service provided by your bank. You won’t have to do anything because your bank will pay electronically or by mail.
- Instead of writing checks to merchants, use your debit card. To create good credit, utilize a credit card and pay it off every month.
- Reward your buddies with online money-transfer services and applications like Venmo.
TIP – Counter checks are helpful; however, going to the bank is time-consuming, and printing checks is likely less expensive.
If you have any queries or need guidance, connect with us in the comment section below. We will check you right!
