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Check format
A US check format places the payer at the top, the date and check number on the right, payee and amount in the middle, memo and signature near the bottom, and the MICR line along the lower edge for bank machines.
Parts of the check
Business name and address identify the account holder. Pay to the order of names the payee. The numeric amount box and the amount in words must match. The signature authorises payment. The MICR line encodes routing, account and check number.
Printing on blank stock
Blank check stock already has security patterns. Software fills the fields and, on paid tools, the MICR line. Confirm the size (usually 8.5 by 3.5 inches) and your bank's rules before you print real checks.
Try a SAMPLE layout
Practice payee, amount in words, and print — no bank numbers, marked not negotiable.
Questions
Is check format the same in every bank?
The basic layout is standard in the US, but MICR and paper rules can differ. Ask your bank.
Can I practice the layout first?
Yes. Use a free sample check maker that prints a SAMPLE mark and omits bank numbers.