Companies generally have the choice of buying either traditional or computer-generated checks.

Traditional checks are designed to be completed by hand or with a typewriter. They are typically arranged three-up on a page, with a stub for reference. An alternate design, called one-write checks, adds a carbon strip on the back of each check to record relevant information on a ledger. With one-write checks, users can issue checks without having to record the recipient and the amount elsewhere.

Computer-generated checks are designed to be used with a computer-based accounting program and a printer. Single sheet designs are intended for laser printers, while dot matrix printers generally use continuous form designs. For businesses that need multiple receipts, dot matrix printers can also print onto carbonless multi-part checks.