Choosing the right business check format is important because not all checks are laid out the same way. Business checks are commonly available in three main positions: top checks, middle checks, and bottom checks. Each format places the check portion in a different location on the sheet, with voucher or stub areas positioned around it.

The correct format depends on your accounting software, printer setup, recordkeeping needs, and whether you are ordering new checks or reordering from a previous order. At Choice Checks, businesses can shop multiple check formats, including imprinted business checks and blank business checks.

What Are Top Business Checks?

Top checks have the check portion located at the top of the sheet, with voucher or stub sections underneath. This is one of the most popular business check formats and is commonly used by businesses that print checks through accounting software.

Top checks are often preferred because they are easy to use, easy to file, and compatible with many common business workflows. If your software prints the check at the top of the page, this is likely the format you need.

Top checks are commonly used for:

• QuickBooks compatible business checks
• Accounts payable checks
• Payroll checks
• Vendor payments
• General business payments

For many businesses, top position checks are the safest choice when ordering new business checks, especially if you are unsure which format your software uses. You can browse available options in our Imprinted Business Checks and Blank Business Checks collections.

What Are Middle Business Checks?

Middle checks place the check portion in the center of the sheet. A voucher or record section appears above and below the check. This format is useful for businesses that want payment details on both sides of the check portion.

Middle checks are not always as common as top checks, but they remain useful for businesses with accounting systems or internal processes that require a center-position check layout.

Middle checks may be useful for:

• Businesses matching an existing middle-position check format
• Accounting systems designed for middle checks
• Payments requiring voucher information above and below the check
• Companies that want a traditional multi-section business check layout

If you are reordering, the easiest rule is to match your current format. If your existing check is printed in the middle of the sheet, reorder middle checks unless your accounting setup has changed.

What Are Bottom Business Checks?

Bottom checks have the check portion located at the bottom of the sheet, with voucher or stub sections above. This format can be useful when businesses need more space for payment details before the check portion.

Bottom checks are often selected by businesses that want detailed voucher information for internal records, approvals, or accounting documentation.

Bottom checks are commonly used when:

• You need additional voucher space above the check
• Your accounting software is set up for bottom-position checks
• You are matching a previous bottom-check order
• Your business wants more detailed remittance records

Bottom checks can be a strong option for businesses that rely heavily on detailed payment documentation. However, before switching to bottom checks, verify that your software and printer settings support the format.

Which Check Format Works With QuickBooks?

Many businesses using QuickBooks look for checks that match their software setup. In many cases, top position checks are the most common format used for QuickBooks compatible business checks. However, businesses should always confirm their software settings and product specifications before ordering.

If your current QuickBooks checks have the check at the top of the sheet, you should reorder top checks. If your current checks are middle or bottom position, match that format unless you are intentionally changing your setup.

Should You Choose Blank or Imprinted Checks?

Once you know the check position you need, the next decision is whether to order blank or imprinted checks.

Blank business checks are designed for businesses that print their own check information using compatible software and printers. These are often used by businesses that want flexibility and fast turnaround.

Imprinted business checks include printed business and banking information. They are a professional option for businesses that want checks ready for use without printing all details in-house.

You can compare options here:

• Blank Business Checks
• Imprinted Business Checks
• Reorder Business Checks

What If You Are Reordering Business Checks?

If you are reordering business checks, the best approach is usually to match your existing format. Look at your current checks and identify where the check is located:

• Check at the top = top checks
• Check in the middle = middle checks
• Check at the bottom = bottom checks

Also confirm your starting check number. In most cases, reorder numbering continues from your previous order unless you request a different starting number. Our Re-Order Center explains how the reorder process works and what information is helpful.

Top vs Middle vs Bottom Checks: Final Recommendation

For most businesses, top checks are the most common and widely used format. They are often a good choice for businesses using popular accounting software and standard business payment workflows.

Middle checks are best when your accounting system or current check layout requires the check in the center of the sheet. Bottom checks are a good option when your business needs more voucher space above the check or is reordering an existing bottom-check layout.

The most important rule is simple: match your software, match your printer setup, and match your current checks if you are reordering.