How could I be out of checks when I don't ever use them?
Written: Sep 27 '09 (Updated Sep 27 '09)
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I knew I was running low on checks, but never had an urgency to reorder. On the first week of school I blew through my last pad of checks because each child needed a unique check for each class. Suddenly, I was totally out of checks.
I had ordered from Deluxe before and knew they were a tad bit more expensive, so I shopped around. I started to purchase from an online check store like I had done many times in the past, but I suddenly realized the risk of cheap checks may not be worth the risk. I wanted to have complete peace of mind.
I decided to go with Deluxe because it was the company that my bank recommended and their security features were better than the cheap check store. My checks came with the padlock icon which means micro-print line, chemically sensitive paper, and a security screen. My bank's logo is also on the check rather than the name just typed. I also saved time ordering by not having to have my account verified by another company. The checks were also mailed to me with added security features.
Typing the routing and checking number is the first thing that is required on the website. This is a big step for someone who is hesitant about Internet safety. I rationalized that the bank wants me to order checks this way, so it should be a safe option. Deluxe also take orders by phone (automated only), or checks can be ordered from the cashier inside the bank if the bank uses Deluxe.
Deluxe will only sell to individuals who have banks in their relationship network. I use Fifth Third Bank. Basically, my bank outsources the production of the checks to Deluxe and then Deluxe mails the checks directly to me.
This means that I never have to send a canceled check, deposit slip, and payment check in the mail (which is great news because I didn't have any checks left!). I ordered my first set through the Teller at the bank. Now that it's time to reorder, I pulled up the Deluxe website and entered my account number, routing number, and the next check starting number.
I just get the regular standard issue checks because I have a hard time reading handwriting on colorful printed checks. Plus, I have no idea how much they are, but I'm sure they are more than the standard checks. They have a very limited selection of decorative checks in comparison to other companies. There is a catalog link on the top of the reorder page to see the different designs. The up side is you won't burn too much time looking at the different styles of checks. Sometimes less options simplify things.
The biggest frustration that I had was not knowing how much the checks costs. There is a telephone number on the site which I called for clarification but it was also an automated line. It was frustrating not being able to talk to a human. It was also frustrating placing an order not knowing how much it would cost. The bank automatically deducts the price from my checking account so I don't worry with paying them.
I now realize that the prices probably vary by bank which is why prices are not listed on the website or on the reorder catalog. I will have to call my bank to see how much the checks are next time. It wasn't clear to me when I was ordering, I felt like I was clicking in the dark.
Anyone who has ordered anything last minute knows there's an extra fee for fast service. Deluxe was happy to ship any method, but I chose the standard delivery because I'm cheap like that.
I placed my order on Thursday with standard turtle shipping. I didn't receive a confirmation so I was really concerned that my order didn't get placed. I checked my bank account and became more concerned because it hadn't been charged to my account either and I really needed those checks.
On Monday I received my checks. For security purposes I will not describe what the packaging looked like, but I was extremely impressed. I was also amazed how quickly I received them. I'm back to writing checks now to the school and I didn't even have to make the “checks are in the mail” excuse to anyone.
It was at least a week before my order posted to my bank account. I cried a little when I saw how much was deducted from my bank account. They were $15 more than I probably would have paid at the cheapo site. However, I only buy checks once a year and I think I will stay with Deluxe because it's a small price for the added security features.
Pros: security features, fast shipping, bank recommended
Cons: expensive, can't talk to a human, unsure of prices
Recommended:
Yes
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xyzwyatt
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Location: Nashville, TN
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