While direct deposit is the most popular method for paying employees, there are still situations where printing payroll checks is necessary. Whether it's for employees who prefer physical checks, one-time bonuses, or off-cycle payments, payroll check in QuickBooks Online makes the check-printing process simple and efficient.

In this complete tutorial, we’ll walk you through how to print payroll checks in QuickBooks Online, from setup to printing and troubleshooting.

✅ What You Need Before Printing Payroll Checks

Before printing payroll checks, make sure:

• You have a QuickBooks Online Payroll subscription (Core, Premium, or Elite).

• The employee’s payment method is set to “Paper Check”.

• You have pre-printed check stock compatible with QuickBooks (voucher-style is recommended).

• Your printer is correctly set up and functioning.

? Step-by-Step Guide to Printing Payroll Checks

Step 1: Set the Employee to Receive Paper Checks

1. Go to Payroll > Employees.

2. Click on the employee’s name.

3. Select Edit next to the "How do you want to pay this employee?" section.

4. Choose Paper check and click Save.

Step 2: Run Payroll

1. From the left menu, go to Payroll > Employees > Run Payroll.

2. Choose the correct pay schedule.

3. Enter hours, bonuses, or other pay details.

4. Confirm that the pay method for the employee is set to Paper Check.

5. Click Preview Payroll, then Submit Payroll once everything is correct.

Step 3: Print Payroll Checks

After submitting payroll:

1. On the confirmation screen, click Print Checks.

2. QuickBooks will prompt you to enter a starting check number — enter the number that matches your first blank check.

3. Select the checks you want to print.

4. Load your pre-printed check stock into the printer.

5. Click Print.

? Tip: Use the “Print Setup” option beforehand to test alignment.

? Choosing the Right Check Format

QuickBooks Online supports three types of check layouts:

• Voucher Checks (Recommended): One check on top, with two pay stubs below.

• Standard Checks: Three checks per page.

• Wallet Checks: Personal-style checks, not recommended for payroll.

Voucher checks are the most popular and provide employees with a full stub for recordkeeping.

? Troubleshooting Common Printing Issues

Check isn’t aligned properly?

• Use Gear Icon > Payroll Settings > Print Setup to adjust alignment.

• Reprint using the adjusted layout.

Check won’t print?

• Check your printer connection.

• Make sure your browser allows pop-ups.

• Try printing from a different browser (Chrome or Firefox works best).

Duplicate check numbers?

• Enter a new starting number during the print step.

• Keep a log of your check numbers for tracking.

? How to Reprint a Payroll Check

1. Go to Payroll > Employees > Paycheck List.

2. Find the paycheck you want to reprint.

3. Select it, and click Print or Reprint Check Stub.

? Security Tip

Always store printed checks in a locked drawer or cabinet to prevent unauthorized access, and keep a record of all printed and voided checks.

Also Read: QuickBooks Error 17337

? Final Thoughts

Printing payroll checks in QuickBooks Online is straightforward when you follow the right steps and ensure proper setup. Whether you're paying by check temporarily or using it as your primary method, QuickBooks offers the tools to manage payroll efficiently and professionally.