Should I switch to balancing my checkbook online? Do people even write checks anymore?
It doesn’t really matter whether you balance your checkbook online or in your check registry. The important thing is that you do balance it. Balancing your checkbook helps you to keep track of your money so you don’t overdraw your account and it lets you catch any mistakes.
Of course doing things online is more eco-conscious—the less paper you use the better for the environment.
If you do want to balance your checkbook online there are a variety of programs available. Most banks that allow online bill pay have online registries for you to balance your account. In addition there is My Checkbook, Clear Checkbook, Smart Checkbook, and Checkbook Register Online. When choosing an online check registry you should choose one that is free and secure (most are).
Some things to remember when you balance your checkbook:
Some checks and transactions take a few days before they show up in your account, even online. You should keep your receipts just in case.
Be aware of “pending” transactions. These haven’t gone through yet, but you can’t ignore them.
The bottom line: It doesn’t matter if you balance your checkbook online or in your paper registry, as long as you do it!
And, yes, people still write checks! Some people don’t trust online banking or they simply feel more comfortable sending a paper check. It’s just a matter of preference.