Do You Still Need Magnetic Ink To Print Checks?
However, the magnetic ink has always been legally required on the check as a payment instrument and that requirement still exists today. According to the Federal Reserve and the Accredited Standards Committee X9 (for financial industry standards), in order for a check to be treated as a cash item, it must contain MICR.
Can I print a check without MICR ink?
Yes, an eCheck will still work without MICR ink. Even though the codeline is printed in regular printer toner, your bank is still able to capture an image of the check and send it to the automated clearing house to request funds from the issuing account.
Will this eCheck work without magnetic ink (aka MICR ink)?
Do I need to use magnetic ink or toner when printing checks?
Magnetic ink for checks is designed to work in tandem with requirements set by the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve and all banks require that checks be printed with MICR ink or toner for ease of check processing.
What Is MICR Ink vs. Toner | Source Technologies
Does a check have to be printed with magnetic ink?
Only the MICR line of a check must be printed in magnetic ink. The rest of the information on the check, such as the date, the payee name, and the amount, can be printed in regular, non-magnetic ink.
Frequently Asked Questions about Check 21 - Federal Reserve Board