Duplicate Checks come with a carbon copy underneath the original check and those pieces of paper are the “duplicates”. Now the big debate is single vs duplicate checks differences.
Although, duplicate checks are a type of checkbook that makes it easier to keep track of the checks you write. There is a space for all the check details, such as recipient, amounts, and date included on this thin paper.
Duplicate checks make it very easy to see people you paid, when, and how much without requesting a duplicate from the bank, or spreadsheet. If you need a copy of a check, carbon paper is placed beneath the check, the writer has to press hard against the top check to enable duplication.
However, Duplicate checks are always fewer in number in a box than single checks due to thicker checkbooks for duplicate checks. Moreover, they are more expensive than single checks.
If you want to know more about single vs duplicate checks keep on reading this article because it contains a lot of information.
What are Duplicate Checks?
A duplicate check includes a carbon copy underneath the original check that makes it easier to keep tracks/recodes of the checks you write.
Having a duplicate makes it easy to see who you paid, how much you spent, and when the check was written
What are Single Checks?
Single Check is a check that comes on a single page and does not include any copy. These checks don’t have this element, as the checkbook comprises just checks. The client is in charge of recording the payee and the sum in a checkbook register for record keeping.
Also, If this check is lost or ripped, the transaction cannot be completed. Its checkbook only held the paper checks that were to be given to the next person. The disadvantage of this kind of check is that after you’ve written it, you’ll have no further written record in your checkbook of the amount or to whom it was given.
Single checks are planned to be used with a check register. Every time you compose a check, you have to record the measure of the installment. A checkbook for single checks is less bulky and has a number of checks per box, and single checks have a low price.
Single vs Duplicate Checks
Opening a checking account is going to give you access to a variety of checks. If you are looking for a specific design, color, or font in a cheque, these cheques have the features that you can select. One of the major things is choosing between single or duplicate checks.
Single checks are simply a book of checks that can be filled out and used as needed, and they don’t require carbon copy while Duplicate checks, sometimes also known as “cheque duplicate,” pair each paper check with a thin piece of printed carbon paper which makes a copy of the check, keep your records. The carbon copy of the check stays with the checkbook.
Differences Between Single Check vs Duplicate Checks
Since we have given you an explanation of the difference between single and duplicate checks, we are now going to provide you with the tabular form, so as to make it easier identification.
| Basis of comparison | Single Checks | Duplicate Checks |
|---|---|---|
| Copies | It has one piece of paper. | It has two pieces of paper with the same information(one for the receiver and one for the check writer. |
| Carbon Paper | It does not require the use of carbon paper | It requires the use of carbon paper |
| Cost | The cost is typically less | The cost is typically high |
| Size | The checkbook is less bunky | The checkbooks are more bunky and larger |
| Where they are used | It is convenient and more likely to be used for a smaller personal transaction | Security and more likely to be used for larger and more expensive transactions, because they are useful for keeping a record |
| Proof | There is no evidence of transactions left behind, in case of a loss check | There is evidence of transactions left behind on duplicate checks, in case of a lost check |
| How are they written | The writer doesn’t need to press hard against the paper when writing | The writer has to apply more pressure when writing on the top check to enable duplication |
Pros and Cons of a Duplicate Check
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of a Duplicate check, that you need to consider before applying for it.
How do Duplicate Check works?
Duplicate checks come in the same binding as regular checks. This allows them to fit wherever you had been storing your regular checks. Although, with duplicate checks, each check is followed by a thin sheet of paper that serves as a carbon copy.
Whenever you go to the bank or store to cash out a duplicate check, after you write the check, you only tear out the check, leaving the duplicate sheet attached to your checkbook. This way, you always have a copy of your own for easy reference. You’re left with a record of everything you wrote on the check, which includes the payee, amount, date, and any memo you may have included.
Also, the copy has the same check number printed on it, as you are writing the check ensure that you apply pressure on it so that it can also reflect on the duplicate.
Conclusion
A beginner may find it confusing to decide between a single vs duplicate check, but this article will help guide you on which check to choose. However, Checks are used every day for multiple purposes, from paying bills and utilities, also used for purchasing goods and services. Therefore, it is considered a wise option to keep track of each transaction to know the monthly and annual expenditures.
Always, remember that single checks provide one copy, whereas duplicates provide two copies. Whichever check variety you decide to use, we hope all of your transactions are positively swift and secure.
Single vs duplicate checks FAQ
A duplicate check should be kept between 5-7 years.
Duplicate checks cost at least $30-$40 if ordered from the bank.
Yes! if you’re looking for a simple and efficient way to keep a record of your finances, and expenses duplicate checks can be worth it.
A single check is a check that comes on a single page and does not include any copy.
A duplicate check has carbon paper which makes a copy of the check you can keep for your records.
References
- tightfistfinance.com
- moderncatalysts.com
- azbigmedia.com
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