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Photo checks are bank checks that allow you to put an image on them. You might want a picture of your smiling face, or you can use a photo that expresses your identity. You can either order photo checks from a printer, or you can print them yourself. Find out how to get your own photo checks.

How to Get Photo Checks

There are 2 ways to get photo checks:

• Order them
• Print them yourself

The easiest way for most people is to order photo checks. Prices online are reasonable, and you don’t have to mess with special ink and paper. You can order photo checks from services like Unique Products.

Photo Checks With Your Face

Some people want to customize checks with a photo. If you’re in a sales profession, photo checks can help establish your brand so that others remember you.

You might think that the checks are more secure. Wouldn’t it be harder to write a check against your account if the thief looks nothing like you? With a small head shot next to your name and address, it would be harder to get away with at the checkout counter.

Just remember that somebody can get plain checks printed (that don’t have your photo) as long as they have your account information. Now, if you lose your book of photo checks, you are correct that it’ll be harder for a thief to use the checks. Then again, they may mail checks in and it won't matter anyway.

Expressive Photo Checks

Some people like photo checks because they’re fun. You can put a picture of your dog, your favorite sports activity, or a special place on your checks. The image can fill the entire background of your check.

Artists and creative types enjoy putting their creations on photo checks as well. It’s a way to share your work, and it may lead to new customers if somebody likes what they see on your check.

A good checking account is important. You’ll send thousands of dollars through your checking account, and you need to make sure it’s the right one for you. The wrong checking account will leave you with less money, and mistakes can cause headaches. Learn the basics and where you should open a checking account.

Why Use a Checking Account?

A checking account is a payment account. You have easy access to cash via checks, debit card, or online bill pay. Your checking account should only hold money that you intend to spend quickly - so look for a checking account that best meets that need and ignore any other fluff.

Where to Open a Checking Account

Almost any bank or credit union offers a checking account. Check with your existing bank to see what they offer.

Investigate an online bank checking account if you’re web-savvy and want to earn a little interest:

• ING Direct Electric Orange Checking Account
• Online Checking Account at HSBC
• Online Banking 101

If you want to earn more on balances in your checking account (and you’re willing to jump through some hoops), look for a "reward" checking account in your area.

Using Your Checking Account

If you need to go back to basics, make sure you know how to use your checking account. Mistakes can be costly and time-consuming.

Fund a Checking Account

How do you get money into a checking account? The easiest way is to have it show up electronically with direct deposit. You can also deposit checks to your checking account so you always have money to cover payments you make.

Too Little Money

You may run out of money in your checking account, and you should know about the alternatives and consequences. Ideally you'll balance your checking account so the problem never arises. However, you might use overdraft protection in your checking account just as a safety net.