Introduction to Single and Duplicate Checks
A check can be in single or duplicate form, and refers to a written order to a bank to pay a certain quantity from the drawer’s account. The distinctions between these two are discussed in this article.
A single check is one of the several types of checks that come in single pages and are usually duplicate-free. As a result, if the check is destroyed or misplaced, a transaction involving this check cannot be executed.
A carbon copy of the original check is included with a duplicate check. As a result, a copy is available for record-keeping purposes, which may come in handy when balancing the check book at a later date.
What are the distinctions between a Single Check and Duplicate Checks?
| Single Check | Duplicate check |
| Does not require the use of a carbon paper | Requires the use of a carbon paper |
| Writer does not need to press hard against the paper | Writer has to press hard against the top check to enable duplication |
| No evidence left behind in case of loss of a check | In case of loss of a check, there is evidence left behind on the duplicate copy |
| Its check book is less bulky | Its check book is bulky as a result of the doubled number of pages. |
What are the Pros and Cons between a single check and a duplicate check?
A duplicate check book will obviously be heavy because each page is divided into twos, however a single check book will always be lighter and easier to carry around. This is most likely why mobile businessmen prefer to use single check books.
While a transaction using a duplicate check is believed to be considerably safer, one involving a single check is not as secure, because in the event of a disagreement or the loss of the written check, a complaint may not be able to show proof in a court of law when needed.
Another Pro and Con emerges during the check-writing procedure for these two checks. If whatever is being written on the top check is going to be replicated on the check underneath, the writer must apply a little force to the top check when writing a duplicate check. In contrast, a single check does not necessitate the use of force because whatever appears on the writing surface is the most significant.
When creating a duplicate check, one must utilize carbon paper, which is a type of paper that allows for the reproduction of written text. A single check, on the other hand, does not necessitate the use of carbon paper because there is no duplication.
