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Checks Unlimited for First-Time Buyers: Everything You Need to Know

Checks and financial documents on a desk

By Editorial Team · Published: August 2026 · Updated: September 2026 · 9 min read

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1. Welcome to the World of Check Ordering
2. Step 1: Gather Your Information
3. Step 2: Choose a Check Printer
4. Step 3: Choose a Design and Format
5. Step 4: Enter Your Banking Information
6. Step 5: Review Add-Ons and Shipping
7. Step 6: Apply a Promo Code
8. Step 7: Review and Submit
9. Tips for First-Time Buyers
10. Frequently Asked Questions
11. Sources and Verification

A comprehensive guide for first-time check buyers, covering what to prepare, what to expect, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Welcome to the World of Check Ordering

If you've never ordered checks online before, the process can seem overwhelming. There are many check printers to choose from, various formats and designs, security features to understand, and pricing structures to compare. This guide walks first-time buyers through everything you need to know to order checks with confidence.

Step 1: Gather Your Information

Before you start, you need your bank routing number, account number, starting check number, and personal information (name, address). These are found on your existing checks or by contacting your bank. Never guess — always verify against an existing check or your bank's official documentation.

Step 2: Choose a Check Printer

There are several reputable check printers to choose from. Checks Unlimited is one of the largest, with over 200 designs and the backing of Deluxe Corporation. Other options include Bradford Exchange Checks (licensed designs), Checkomatic (no handling fees, faster turnaround), Costco Checks (member pricing), and ZilMoney (digital printing). Compare pricing, design catalogs, shipping times, and fee structures before choosing.

Step 3: Choose a Design and Format

Browse the check printer's design catalog and choose a design that fits your style. Decide between single checks (standard, less expensive) and duplicate checks (include a carbonless copy for automatic record-keeping). Choose top-tear or side-tear format based on your checkbook cover and personal preference.

Step 4: Enter Your Banking Information

Enter your routing number, account number, starting check number, and personal information exactly as they appear on your existing checks. Double-check every digit. The ordering system should display a preview — review it carefully before proceeding.

Step 5: Review Add-Ons and Shipping

The checkout process may include optional add-ons like checkbook covers, deposit slips, fraud protection, and subscription services. Review each carefully and opt out of anything you don't want. Choose a shipping method — standard shipping is often free but slow, while trackable and expedited options cost more but arrive faster.

Step 6: Apply a Promo Code

Check for active promo codes on the check printer's Special Offers page. Checks Unlimited regularly offers up to 35% off multi-box orders. Only one code may be used per order. Verify the code is valid before submitting.

Step 7: Review and Submit

Review your complete order summary — design, banking information, quantity, shipping method, promo code, and total cost. Confirm no unwanted add-ons are included. Submit your order and save your confirmation number.

Tips for First-Time Buyers

Start with a single box to test the process and quality. Take advantage of new-customer promotions. If you're unsure about anything, contact the check printer's customer service before ordering. Once you're satisfied, you can reorder larger quantities for better per-box pricing. Always verify you're on the official website before entering banking information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to order checks for the first time?

You need your bank routing number, account number, starting check number, and personal information. These are found on your existing checks or by contacting your bank.

Is it safe to order checks online for the first time?

Yes, as long as you use a legitimate, established check printing service with HTTPS encryption. Verify the official URL, use a credit card, and avoid public Wi-Fi.

Should I order one box or multiple boxes as a first-time buyer?

Start with a single box to test the process and quality. Once you're satisfied, you can reorder larger quantities for better per-box pricing.

Sources and Verification

This article is based on publicly available information. All pricing, promotions, features, and policies should be verified on the official Checks Unlimited website.

· Official Checks Unlimited website (checksunlimited.com) — homepage, product pages, and special offers page
· Checks Unlimited FAQs page — printing times, shipping options, and order status
· Checks Unlimited Security Pledge and SentryShield fraud protection pages
· Checks Unlimited Terms & Conditions page
· Checks Unlimited Business Products division (business.checksunlimited.com) — privacy policy and FAQs
· Third-party coupon aggregators (RetailMeNot, Savings.com, Groupon, Rakuten) — publicly listed promo codes and offer terms
· Trustpilot consumer reviews for checksunlimited.com — publicly visible customer feedback
· Checkomatic ordering guide — independent comparison of check printing services
· U.S. News 360 Reviews — 'Where to Order Cheap or Free Checks' article
· Top Class Actions — publicly reported litigation regarding Deluxe/Checks Unlimited shipping fees

Last updated: September 2026

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