Banks and banking establishments have used checks since at least the 1500s, when Dutch "cashiers" accepted written notes from those who had entrusted them with their money (known then, and now, as "depositers") for some or all of the money that the "cashiers" were holding. That practice is still in use today.

Despite the efforts of some organizations, companies, businesses, and others to move us towards a "paperless" society, many people still prefer to use printed checks to conduct financial transactions. Printed checks remain a very convenient, secure banking practice.

Using printed checks makes it easier to keep up with how much money is being spent, where the money is going, and for what purpose. This is especially true of business owners, who may need to tell at a glance exactly which check was written to whom, and when it was written. Because business checks often come in sheets of three or more, held together in a hole-punch or similar binder, it is very easy to determine this information.
Personal checks are equally as easy to use. Personal checks come with either a register—a place where checks can be recorded by number, date, payee information, and amount—or carbonless duplicates.

Many people prefer checks that use carbonless duplicates as a means of recording each check written, as it is sometimes easy to forget to record a check if a separate register is being used. Having an exact duplicate of the original check allows one to see all of the information, rather than just the little bit that could be written in the space allowed in the register.

This is not to say that one method of check recording is better than the other. It is strictly the preference of the business person or individual using the checks as to which one is best suited for their needs.

Computer technology has made it possible for consumers to design and print their own checks, and indeed, some do, especially their personal checks. However, many people still prefer to order their checks. For this reason, check printing companies such as Carousel Checking offer a wide variety of business checks and personal checks, in many designs and styles to choose from.