Everyone has used a check at least once for transactions. It is mainly used in the accounting world, checks are widely used for payments or orders. Can you ask your bank to start your check number of your choice? The starting check number is a special identifier printed on the check that helps you track your records. Generally, it is typically a 6-digit code that starts from zero.
Here in this article, you will get to know about the starting check number, its features, and uses
What is the Starting Check Number?
The starting check number is the first number that is printed on your checkbook. If you are starting with a checking account, you will be asked to decide the starting check number of your checking account. Although it is not necessary to start with a specific check number, the check number just gives you the benefit of keeping a record of the orders and preventing duplication. You can normally start your check with any number you like. Starting with a check number in sequence is just for having the records sequentially, so your bank can easily detect the transaction by the check number.
How to Change the Check Number in QuickBooks?
You can change the check numbers in QuickBooks. Depending on which QuickBooks you are using, we have provided the steps for both to change the check number. You can read it:
QuickBooks Desktop
The check number is used to get records of your finances. You can easily change the check number in QuickBooks by following the steps given below:
- Log in to your QuickBooks desktop on your system.
- Now search for the banking menu section that is present in the top menu bar.
- After that, you will see the use register button.
- Click on the use register button.
- Now you have to choose the account where the check was written.
- Once you have selected the bank account, locate the check that you want to change.
- You have to click on that check twice to open it.
- Now, find the check number field and add the check number you want.
- You have completed the process of the check number change.
Following these steps, you can easily change your check number in QuickBooks Desktop. All you need is to open a particular check and make the changes to it.
QuickBooks Online
Change the check number in QuickBooks Online using these steps:
- Log in to your QuickBooks Online account.
- Now, click on the plus icon given in the dashboard.
- Find the check button and click on it.
- Once you find the check of which you want to edit the number, click on it to open it.
- You will find the check no. field on the top of the selected check.
- After that, you can change the check number in the selected check.
- After completing the writing of the check number, click on the save and close button.
- After that, search for the check option to recheck the number.
- If it is changed, then you have successfully changed the check number.
Is it necessary that Checks Start at 101?
The starting check number 101 means the first check in the new checkbook begins with the number 101, but it is not necessary to start it from 101 only. Most people start it from 101 so that they can have the records of the orders or the payments. But you can start it from any number you want to start from.
Benefits of Changing the Starting Check Number
- Avoid Confusion: Suppose you have already used a check before from zero, now you are making a new check from zero, which will cause confusion between the checks. Starting from a new number helps you keep track and avoid mixing old and new checks.
- Better Record Keeping: It becomes easier to match checks with your bank records when the numbers are in logical order. You know the sequence of the check numbers you have made.
- Prevention of Fraud: If someone gets your old check number, you can modify or change it so that it makes it harder for them to write fake checks.
- Professional Appearance: Businesses like to start with a higher number, which is not started with zero, because it looks established and well-organized.
- Restarting After a System Change: If you want to switch to a new accounting software then it becomes complex to start with the same check number, so starting with a different number helps you to separate old records from new ones.
Conclusion
You can find your starter check numbers on the top of your check, which helps in tracking finances. As seen in this blog, it is not compulsory to have sequential check numbers; the check number can be of your choice. Bank account number start with zero because of the sequence, so that you can track your payments. But users change it according to their choices.