What is a MICR toner cartridge?

MICR toner cartridges are specialty toners used by the banking industry for check processing. MICR is an acronym that stands for magnetic ink character recognition. Each MICR cartridge is filled with a special toner powder designed specifically for check printing. MICR toners print the bank routing number, account number and check number on a check (also known as the “MICR line”) offering security to both the consumer and their banking institution. The MICR toner formula works jointly with a specialized MICR font known as E-13B to produce a unique combination of characters on your check, reducing the risk of fraud during the check-processing period.

When should I use MICR toner?

MICR toner cartridges are only for printing checks. If you print a check with a regular toner cartridge, it will likely be rejected by the bank when it is processed and you may be charged a fee by your financial institution.

Which printers use a MICR toner cartridge?

There are many standard laser printers that are compatible with MICR toner cartridges. You can also buy a special MICR printer that only does MICR printing. LD Products® sells remanufactured MICR toner cartridges that are compatible with a variety of standard laser printers. TROY® Security Solutions are a solid option for consumers looking for MICR specific printers. If you print checks occasionally, a standard laser printer that uses a compatible MICR toner should be a good fit. Keep in mind you will need to keep two types of toner cartridges on hand, one regular toner cartridge and one MICR toner. MICR printers on the other hand only use MICR toner, so you will need to purchase a second printer to print everyday documents. No matter which route you go, MICR toner cartridges are a convenient and secure check printing solution for your business.