Checks Issued Manually

Every organization has the need, from time to time, to issue a manual check that will later be entered into the computer system. Manual checks are often typed on a self-correcting typewriter, which is the primary kind of typewriter found in an American business office today. Self-correcting typewriters use ribbons that are black and shiny. This black shiny ribbon is polymer, a form of plastic. It is plastic, not ink, that is typed onto a check. The white self-correcting tape is a very durable form of coated transparent tape. This tape lifts the type off the check when errors occur, allowing correct or new information to be inserted.

Forgers, including disgruntled or terminated employees, know what self-correcting type looks like and can identify and alter these manually issued checks with ordinary transparent tape. They simply lay the tape over the letters to be removed, rub the tape lightly with a pen or pencil, and lift off the tape. The typed letters are on the tape, not on the check. A person with only moderate finger dexterity can clean off a check completely in about 90 seconds. He or she then types in a pseudo payee name or new dollar amount and negotiates the check, with the original signature.

Some companies issue manual checks by hand, literally. A ballpoint pen is the tool of choice, with information handwritten on the check. This is a dangerous practice because ink from a pen, including so-called permanent ink, can easily be dissolved with acetone without destroying the check.

When issuing manual checks, use a typewriter with a fabric ribbon, not a polymer ribbon. Fabric ribbons are available for almost every make of typewriter through the catalog department at major office supply stores. They cost about $5. Fabric ribbons are often labeled as single-strike or multi-strike ribbons. I strongly recommend a single-strike ribbon, because it ensures that the maximum amount of ink is driven into the wood fibers of the paper. Ink cannot be lifted off with tape. The only way to remove it is with chemicals, and even that is difficult. When using multichemical-sensitive check paper, those alteration attempts may become evident.