Single vs. Duplicate Checks: there are various checks, which are written orders used to pay a stated sum from the bank’s drawer. Single and duplicate checks are two types of these checks. The main difference between single and duplicate checks is that a single check is a single-page check which does not need a carbon copy, while a duplicate check is a multipage check which has a carbon copy underneath the original check.
Let’s take a closer look at Duplicate checks vs. Single
| Carbon Paper | Only duplicate checks require carbon paper |
| Force Application | Force is applied only when writing duplicate checks |
| Bulkiness | A Checkbook of a duplicate check is bulkier than single checks |
| Price | Single checks have low price than duplicate ones |
Table of Contents
What Are Single Checks?
If we look at the single meanings, it is a type of check that comes in single pages and doesn’t have any duplicates. If this kind of check is lost or torn, then the check cannot be used for exchanging money. The checkbook of the single check only has exclusive paper checks, which are given to the next individual. But there is a drawback to the checks; once you compose this check, there is no other physical record except for that check given to someone. Single checks are also planned to be used with a check register because every time you compose a check, the installment’s measure must be recorded. The checkbook of the single check is less bulky because it has less number of pages as compared to the duplicate check. Moreover, it also has a lower price as compared to duplicate checks.
What Are Duplicate Checks?
If we look at the duplicate checks meaning, it is the type of check which has a carbon copy underneath the original check. These types of a check are more secure because they keep the record of who you paid, how much and when you paid, without requesting duplicate data from the bank or on the register. But to make a duplicate on the carbon paper, one must press hard against the top check while writing. It will provide a duplicate of each check. When the writing is finished, the data is easily exchanged for the duplicate structure beneath. The duplicate checkbook is bulkier than the single one because there are a double number of pages. But there are always fewer numbers in a box than single checks due to the thicker checkbooks of duplicate checks. These are also more expensive than single checks.
6 Key Differences Between Single Checks and Duplicate Checks
| Components | Single Checks | Duplicate Checks |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | It is a type of check that comes in the form of single pages and has no duplicates. | It is the type of check which has a carbon copy underneath the original check. |
| Duplicate Copy | There is no evidence or copy of the single check. If this kind of check is lost or torn, then the check cannot be used for exchanging money. | There is always a carbon copy available of the duplicate checks. These types of checks are more secure because they keep a record of who you pay. |
| Writing Method | In the writing method of the single check, the writer does not have to press hard against the paper while writing. | While writing the duplicate check, the person must press hard against the paper to create a carbon duplicate. |
| Check Book | The checkbook with the single check is always lighter because it has fewer pages. | The checkbook of the duplicate check is heavier because it has double the number of pages. |
| Number of Checks | There is a large number of checks present within a box | There are fewer checks in a box due to thicker check |
| Evidence | There is no evidence left behind of the single check if the check is torn or lost. | There is always evidence present in the form of carbon duplicate |
Single vs. Duplicate Checks Similarities
- Whether it is a Single check or a duplicate check, both are the written form of the payment a person wants to give or receive.
- Both checks are used for exchanging money.
Single vs. Duplicate Checks Pros and Cons
Single Checks Pros and Cons
Pros of Single Checks
- Single checks are lightweight due to fewer pages. That’s why most mobile businessmen prefer single checkbooks.
- Single checks and checkbooks are less expensive as compared to duplicate checks.
Cons of Single Checks
- Single checks do not have any carbon copy, so the transaction cannot be possible if the check is torn or lost.
- In order to disagree with the written check, the complaint is not able to show proof in court.
Duplicate Checks Pros and Cons
Pros of Duplicate Checks
- The transaction through the duplicate check is more secure, as it has proof in the form of a carbon copy.
- If the duplicate check is torn or misplaced, the carbon copy can be used for the transaction purpose.
Cons of Duplicate Checks
- It is not easy to carry around a duplicate checkbook because it is heavier as compared to a single check.
- In order to write the duplicate check, one has to put some extra force on the top check so a proper carbon copy can be created.
Comparison Chart
Comparison Video
Conclusion
Whenever you open a checking bank account, you have to choose from a variety of checks. You can choose different colors, designs and fonts. Moreover, you have to choose whether you want a single or duplicate check. Both of these checks serve the same purpose: transaction from the bank account. But if we talk about single Vs. Duplicate checks differences, the single check does not have any duplicate copy, while the duplicate check has a carbon copy. Moreover, there is no evidence or copy of the single check. If this kind of check is lost or torn, then the check cannot be used for exchanging money. But there is always a carbon copy available of the Duplicate checks. These types of checks are more secure because they keep a record of who you pay. If we compare Single versus duplicate checks prices, the duplicate checks are more expensive.
