CrossCheck Blog

Returned checks have been a domestic problem ever since checks were introduced in the U.S. by Boston businessmen circa 1681. Solutions vary, including pitches for “free online check verification” or “how to verify funds on a check before it bounces.” The bottom line, however, is that free check verification is as much of a myth as the proverbial free lunch or snake-oil elixirs. The cure, of course, is to contract a check verification and guarantee service provider. Acknowledging this fact, there are four general types of merchants who have or need check processing services: Merchants with check verification or guarantee. Merchants who don’t have check processing services. Merchants who want to accept check payments. Merchants with a returned check problem. Each of their stories is compelling, and each category has valid reasons for functioning with or without check processing services. The variables and outcomes are explored here.

Paper checks and check guarantee services are like everyday things that keep running and running: the iconic rabbit from the battery commercials, the backup fridge in the garage, the commuter car from way back when, and the guy in the movie named after a bunch of trees. Despite Fintechs saying they are "old and in the way," traditional checks keep millions of American businesses running and running. Furthermore, a few financial prognosticators also predicted checks were going to be obsolete decades ago. Nevertheless, paper checks continue to prevail. As a famous author once said, “The rumors of my demise are greatly exaggerated.” Why do checks keep running and running, and what role do check guarantee services play in their success?

Since checks are still a popular form of consumer payment, refusing them all together may be cutting out a slice of the proverbial pie ― a slice of profits that is. Additionally, checks are more cost-effective for merchants with low-profit margins when compared to the high cost of card processing fees. By accepting checks, however, merchants run the risk of having checks returned which equates to money lost. Every bit of revenue counts when running a business, so returned checks are not anyone’s cup of tea. This is where check guarantee companies come into play.