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	<title>std checks</title>
	<link>http://www.artwoo.com</link>
	<description>Returned search results for std checks</description>
	<copyright>Copyright 2008</copyright>
	<pubDate>Sat, 22 Nov 2008 04:43:20 +0000</pubDate>
	<generator>http://www.artwoo.com/rss/std+checks</generator>

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				<title>Buying Cheap Personal Checks Online</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/buying-cheap-personal-checks-online</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/buying-cheap-personal-checks-online#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sat, 22 Dec 2007 11:20:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>cheap personal checks</category><category>shades of color</category><category>drawee bank</category><category>issue money</category><category>personalized check</category><category>smiling face</category><category>thousands of dollars</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/buying-cheap-personal-checks-online</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Well, you have your check. It's pretty much the basic ones with the basic design =96 pretty boring actually. And your colleague takes out his check, and you peer in to look, and you saw his picture smack right at the middle of the check! Now, that isn't boring. That's classic. There's nothing like]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ Well, you have your check. It's pretty much the basic ones with the basic design =96 pretty boring actually. And your colleague takes out his check, and you peer in to look, and you saw his picture smack right at the middle of the check! Now, that isn't boring. That's classic. There's nothing like saying, "I issue this check." There's nothing more personal than having your own picture printed on your own check. <br /><br /> However, it might not necessarily be your picture. If you're not too comfortable with constantly staring at your <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/smiling+face" rel="tag">smiling face</a> as you <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/issue+money" rel="tag">issue money</a> off your bank account, it could be someone else's picture. It wouldn't have to be your wife's picture either despite her nagging that you put it in to remind you that she's checking the books every month. What matters is that it is personal to you. It is extremely satisfying to have your own customized or <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/personalized+check" rel="tag">personalized check</a>. It is even more satisfying if you were able to get it at a much discounted price! <br /><br /> Introduction to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/cheap+personal+checks" rel="tag">Cheap Personal Checks</a> <br /><br /> Cheap personal checks are basically checks that are customized according to the owners' preference. If you are fairly artistic and you like colors, it would be expected that you would like somewhat modern-looking checks with various <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/shades+of+color" rel="tag">shades of color</a> and quite unique prints. <br /><br /> Nowadays, cheap personal checks are fairly common. It is one of the most common means of paying for debts, services or goods. This is not surprising since these allow for a fast and convenient flow of transactions. You don't have to actually carry <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/thousands+of+dollars" rel="tag">thousands of dollars</a> with you. You can enter into transactions and close deals without passing a single actual bill to the other party. This gives a lot of security against theft. Checks can also easily pass off as receipts when the bearer presents the check to the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/drawee+bank" rel="tag">drawee bank</a> with the latter accepting it and eventually returning the check to the drawer. <br /><br /> Order Online Personal Checks <br /><br /> It is quite easy to order cheap personal checks online. These checks basically resemble the usual or basic bank checks that you see. However, what makes a personal check unique is the exclusive pattern, style or design that you would choose to have imprinted on the check. It could be anything else =96 your daughter, your dog, Celine Dion, or even Brad Pitt! You could find a lot of companies online that offer to sell cheap personal checks including top-tear checks and duplicate checks. <br /><br /> The one good thing about these cheap personal checks is that they also come with security features to protect you against fraud, falsification and theft. Typically, security features like micro-print and water-mark seal ensures the safety of the owner of the check. <br /><br /> Get Your Personal Checks Cheap! <br /><br /> You don't have to spend huge amounts of money to have your very own customized or personalized checks. There are a lot of online companies that are willing to produce and sell to you your personal check at a fairly competitive or cheap price. Usually, you'd save a lot of money by going directly to online printers because you do away with the middlemen who are out to profit from your check. You would be able to avoid getting charged at a much higher price that you'd be willing to pay. <br /><br /> However, if you really want to make sure that you'd be able to get your personal check at extremely low prices, the secret is to wait for online promos and offers wherein online companies narrow down their prices for a box of checks. You would also be able to get more discounts as you order for more personal checks. You would typically get your order within a week or so. So, if you're considering having your face printed on your checks, you might as well scour the Internet for discounts.   <bio>Mads Petterson collects personal checks and have a website featuring hundreds of personal check designs. Find your favorites at <a href="http://www.akenaten.com" >http://www.akenaten.com</a>.  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>The Past Revealed: Background Checks</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-past-revealed-background-checks</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-past-revealed-background-checks#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Mon, 03 Jul 2006 08:27:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>background check</category><category>conduct background checks</category><category>fair credit reporting act</category><category>furthermore</category><category>credit reporting act</category><category>incarceration</category><category>employment verification</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-past-revealed-background-checks</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Employers tend to conduct background checks before hiring new people. It is a specific process that involves knowing the information about the individual's past.  In today's society, it is no longer difficult to access information. This is because the advent of new technology allows us to retrieve]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Employers tend to conduct <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/background+check" rel="tag">background check</a>s before hiring new people. It is a specific process that involves knowing the information about the individual's past. <br /><br /> In today's society, it is no longer difficult to access information. This is because the advent of new technology allows us to retrieve a lot of kinds of information. <br /><br /> Contents of the Background Check <br /><br /> Most background checks contain criminal and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/incarceration" rel="tag">incarceration</a> records. Criminal and incarceration records include litigation records, driving and vehicle records. <br /><br /> <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/furthermore" rel="tag">Furthermore</a>, background checks include education verification, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/employment+verification" rel="tag">employment verification</a> and credit card check. Some include detailed drug tests, licensing records and financial information. <br /><br /> These are just basic elements to a background check. Other things can be added to make the background check more specific. <br /><br /> Some even conduct interviews with the written personal references of the employees. They may be their former employers, family members or friends. <br /><br /> Reasons for Conducting Background Checks <br /><br /> There are several reasons why companies <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/conduct+background+checks" rel="tag">conduct background checks</a>. First is to find out if the person has done any criminal activity. This would essential if the position requires customer relations or handling money. <br /><br /> Most companies also conduct credit checks. It serves as a indicator for the persons reliability. <br /><br /> Not only done in companies, in the United States, there exists the Brady Bill where background checks are done for those who want to buy guns, explosives and restricted firearms. <br /><br /> Other reasons for background checks may involve a suspicious neighbor or perhaps when one is hiring a new nanny. It can also be as serious has going into a background of a possible new business partner. <br /><br /> Requirements before conducting a background check <br /><br /> There are many laws and guidelines that should be followed in conducting background check. Some of these laws are as follows: <br /><br /> o <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fair+credit+reporting+act" rel="tag">Fair <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/credit+reporting+act" rel="tag">Credit Reporting Act</a></a>. This law ensures that when credit reporting is done, correct and updated data is used. <br /><br /> o Drivers Privacy Protection Act. This law regulates the release and sharing of information from DMV records. Thus, the release of driver and vehicles records are part of these laws. <br /><br /> o Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. This act is also involved in employment screening. This regulates the information the employer can or cannot access. It stresses keeping the information private. <br /><br /> o Other state laws and guidelines. Depending on which state you are in, there are specific laws and guidelines pertaining to background checks. <br /><br /> Controversies Regarding Background Checks <br /><br /> Not all people are comfortable with background checks. Sometimes, there are tendencies that one unearths information of illegal activity. One must be aware that the information is 100 percent true. Some may perhaps be wrong or irrelevant. <br /><br /> An important factor when looking for sources is to what degree is your source credible. <br /><br /> The Deal with Background Checks <br /><br /> Although not everyone approves of background checks, the fact remains the same, that background checks are useful. It gives an overview of the personality and working habits of the person. <br /><br /> Remember to assess only the relevant information to prevent having information overload about the person. Time is always a factor. Some perceive background checks to be too time consuming. This may only occur when you get too much information about the person. <br /><br /> Background checks are now usually standard protocol not only to most companies but also at home when hiring household help. Thus, background checks are not only for big companies. It is something for the average household.   <bio>Ashton Renderly talks in length about the pro's and con's of background checks at <a href="http://www.ezbackgroundcheck.info">http://www.ezbackgroundcheck.info.</a>. Also checkout <a href="http://www.photogreetingcard.info">http://www.photogreetingcard.info</a> for more great information and resources. </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>How Small Business Can Save Money Printing Their Own Checks</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-small-business-can-save-money-printing-their-own-checks</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-small-business-can-save-money-printing-their-own-checks#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sat, 27 Sep 2008 13:50:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>blank check stock</category><category>magnetic ink character recognition</category><category>check printing software</category><category>printing checks</category><category>check fraud</category><category>printed check</category><category>typical desktop</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-small-business-can-save-money-printing-their-own-checks</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Modern technology is supposed to make your life easier. However it has also created a new breed of criminal. As technology rapidly expands to include new ways to protect your money, criminals find new ways around these security measures. The incidences of check fraud continue to increase each year]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Modern technology is supposed to make your life easier. However it has also created a new breed of criminal. As technology rapidly expands to include new ways to protect your money, criminals find new ways around these security measures. The incidences of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/check+fraud" rel="tag">check fraud</a> continue to increase each year despite the security features offered by technology.<br><br>Small businesses are constantly looking for ways to cut costs and increase efficiency. One way to achieve this is by printing your own checks. Purchasing the equipment and software needed to print your own checks can be a pricey investment but it can make check printing more secure and overall less costly than having your checks pre-printed. Not only will you save money, the security that comes with printing your own checks can be viewed as an investment in the safety of your company's finances if you follow a few basic steps.<br><br><a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/printing+checks" rel="tag">Printing checks</a> requires the use of MICR Technology. MICR or <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/magnetic+ink+character+recognition" rel="tag">Magnetic Ink Character Recognition</a> when used properly involves the use a computer, a laser printer, MICR toner, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/check+printing+software" rel="tag">check printing software</a> with micr fonts, and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/blank+check+stock" rel="tag">blank check stock</a> with security features. It is important to understand how and why each of these items is used for check printing.<br><br>1. Blank check stock is cheaper and more secure than pre-<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/printed+check" rel="tag">printed check</a> stock. Blank check stock is more secure than regular checks as the all important banking account information is only printed when the check is printed. Businesses can print their checks using their own fonts and logos when using blank check stock. Pre-printed check stock can be stolen by criminals who need only to fill in the blanks to use the checks.<br><br>2. The Computer - Your <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/typical+desktop" rel="tag">typical desktop</a> computer will work. The computer currently on your desk is probably capable of printing MICR check printing. You will use it to print the checks and to store information about checks and finances.<br><br>3. MICR-compatible software will be used to print the special characters, or MICR fonts and signatures used on the checks. Not all accounting software can be used to print MICR lines on checks so make sure that you have the correct tools. You may be able to use your regular accounting software, however, several companies offer software specifically for check printing.<br><br>4. Laser printers provide the fastest and most reliable MICR printing. Make sure to do your research and buy a printer that can be used with MICR toner cartridges. Most HP and Lexmark mono-chrome, or black only laser printers have MICR Toner Cartridges available for use in check printing. MICR Toners are usually not developed for color laser printers.<br><br>5. MICR toner is a special toner that contains iron oxide that gives the toner magnetic properties. The magnetic check line can be read by reader-sorter machines in banks. This allows checks to be processed quickly and accurately.<br><br>When printing your own checks, make sure that you limit the number of people who have access to your check printing utilities. Also keep the check printing equipment locked in a secure area. With the right equipment and proper safety measures, printing your own checks can be a wise investment.<bio>Learn More about <a href="http://www.inkcarts.com/troy-systems-micr-toner.html">MICR Toner</a> and check printing with <a href="http://www.inkcarts.com/micr-toner.html">MICR Toner Cartridges</a> by visiting the inkcarts website.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Free Criminal Records And Background Checks --</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-criminal-records-and-background-checks</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-criminal-records-and-background-checks#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Tue, 16 May 2006 12:32:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>background checks</category><category>free criminal records</category><category>negligent hiring</category><category>pre employment screening</category><category>oiled machine</category><category>workplace violence</category><category>companys business</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/free-criminal-records-and-background-checks</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The employee is a vital part of a company's business. In fact, one can even say that the employee makes a company for surely without him, the company can never be. Employees are the workforce that keeps a company going. They serve as the fuel that keeps business operations going like a well-oiled]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[The employee is a vital part of a company's business. In fact, one can even say that the employee makes a company for surely without him, the company can never be. Employees are the workforce that keeps a company going. They serve as the fuel that keeps business operations going like a well-<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/oiled+machine" rel="tag">oiled machine</a>. For this reason, hiring individuals to become prospective employees of a company are serious matters of interest and one that can never be relegated as dismal. <br /><br /> Why Conduct <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/free+criminal+records" rel="tag">Free Criminal Records</a> and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/background+checks" rel="tag">Background Checks</a>? <br /><br /> That is an understandable question to ask. With the prices quoted by public records researchers these days, why indeed. However, if the hiring process is the key to keeping the business intact for a long time, then free criminal records and background checks are what make the hiring process thorough and exhaustive. <br /><br /> Free criminal records and background checks helps a company make better-informed decisions during the pre-employment screening. The information they provide are indispensable as they are the determinants of a person's character. In a way, free criminal records and background checks are steps that a company can take to protect its own interest. There have been too many cases in the past wherein no background checks whatsoever was made on an individual and so when that individual was hired as an employee and then later on committed a crime in the context of his or her job, the company was held liable. <br /><br /> Negligence particularly on issues concerning <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/negligent+hiring" rel="tag">negligent hiring</a>, supervision, security, training, and retention can not only cause loss in productivity but at the extreme end, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/workplace+violence" rel="tag">workplace violence</a> as well that could very well cost the lives of other employees. And thus, it is the responsibility of the company as well as a right to protect its assets and interests, including its employees from incidents that may arise due to the lack of free criminal records and background checks. <br /><br /> State Requirement <br /><br /> Several states in the U.S. have laws requiring free criminal records and background checks during the pre-employment process. States, such as Florida, are especially particular about free criminal records and background checks on certain industries where "care" is provided as a service. Thus, any prospective employee or volunteer of a facility for the elderly, children, and people with disabilities are required by state statute and by federal law to undergo free criminal records and background checks. <br /><br /> Today, 29 states in the United States keep central repositories for the purpose of providing information to those conducting free criminal records and background checks. As of this time, there is no known "national" database of criminal history information and the most you could do to conduct a nationwide search is to visit each state repository individually. Fortunately, the Internet has made it possible for you to do this right on your computer screen.   <bio>Find Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime... Dig Up Dirt on Anybody... Even Uncover Secrets and Closely-Guarded Information... Plus, Do It All Legally and Without Anyone Ever Finding Out! Visit <a href="http://www.onlinedetectiveguru.com">http://www.onlinedetectiveguru.com</a> for more information. You may use this article only if you leave that hyperlink above in place. </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Increasing Security: How To Avoid An Unnecessary Loss Of Money</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/increasing-security-how-to-avoid-an-unnecessary-loss-of-money</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/increasing-security-how-to-avoid-an-unnecessary-loss-of-money#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Tue, 20 Mar 2007 02:48:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>checks and balances</category><category>company checks</category><category>canceled checks</category><category>signed checks</category><category>mail</category><category>business owners</category><category>signs</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/increasing-security-how-to-avoid-an-unnecessary-loss-of-money</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[While a large company can bounce back from losing millions of dollars, this type of mistake for a smaller business could prove too detrimental to recover. One of the best things to do to in regards to protecting the interests of a company is to increase the amount of security pertaining to the]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[While a large company can bounce back from losing millions of dollars, this type of mistake for a smaller business could prove too detrimental to recover. One of the best things to do to in regards to protecting the interests of a company is to increase the amount of security pertaining to the handling of money. For starters, no single worker should have sole control over the financial transactions from start to finish. Duties of the company should be kept separate. For example, the person who writes the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/company+checks" rel="tag">company checks</a> shouldn't be the same person who <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/signs" rel="tag">signs</a> them as well. <br /><br /> The same goes for other responsibilities about the work setting. The employee who opens the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/mail" rel="tag">mail</a> shouldn't have the duty of recording all of the monetary gains and losses. If responsibilities are divided among a pool of workers, the chances of one person stealing from the company is minimized because of an in-house system of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/checks+and+balances" rel="tag">checks and balances</a>. <br /><br /> When an employer gives an individual the chance to embezzle funds and then get rid of any evidence of the act, they have often bestowed upon them too much power and position within the company. Without anyone watching or checking up on their actions, they are given the opportunity to keep unopened bank deposits and sign for undetermined amounts of money with room for covering up their deeds. Employers and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/business+owners" rel="tag">business owners</a> should review all of their unopened bank statements, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/canceled+checks" rel="tag">canceled checks</a>, endorsements, and all <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/signed+checks" rel="tag">signed checks</a>. <br /><br /> Knowing the signs of fraud is also a good way to prevent it from happening or from getting worse. Business owners and executives should get in the habit of checking on suppliers and business ties they are unfamiliar with. They should investigate checks that seem larger than they should be. A keen eye can detect forged signatures, but comparison checking wouldn't hurt every now and then. If checks are missing or check numbers are out of order, a red flag should rise. Checks should also match the name on the register, and when made out to a third party, company endorsers should be examined.<br /><br /><br /><br /> Also, company checks are quite important. They should be closely guarded and access to them should be limited. Checks should also be pre-numbered and kept in a secure location that only a select few can reach. And although it may sound funny (and some forget), a very important rule regarding tightening financial security is to never sign a blank check.   <bio>Get evolis security ID equipment at our evolis website: <a href="http://www.idbadgesupply.com/Dualys.html" >http://www.idbadgesupply.com/Dualys.html</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>MICR Toner - The Development of Checks Created the Demand For MICR Toner</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/micr-toner-the-development-of-checks-created-the-demand-for-micr-toner</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/micr-toner-the-development-of-checks-created-the-demand-for-micr-toner#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 15 Aug 2008 20:22:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>california gold rush</category><category>four hundred years</category><category>american bankers association</category><category>silver coinage</category><category>wells fargo co</category><category>innocent travelers</category><category>federal reserve bank</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/micr-toner-the-development-of-checks-created-the-demand-for-micr-toner</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How the Need for the MICR Toner Came to BeMICR toners have been around for fifty years. Their development sprung from a serious need to revolutionize the banking industry and the way they process checks. Checks themselves have gone through a long period of changes in the last four hundred years,]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[How the Need for the MICR Toner Came to Be<br><br>MICR toners have been around for fifty years. Their development sprung from a serious need to revolutionize the banking industry and the way they process checks. Checks themselves have gone through a long period of changes in the last <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/four+hundred+years" rel="tag">four hundred years</a>, and the use of MICR toners was among the latest updates in its history.<br><br>How did MICR toners come about and what is its role in the development of the way we use checks? The answer lies in the development of the checks themselves.<br><br>The Goldsmiths and the Use of Checks<br><br>Before there was any paper money, much less checks, there was gold and silver. Gold and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/silver+coinage" rel="tag">silver coinage</a> was used as currency, and people carried some along whenever they needed to shop for goods and services. However, carrying coins around could be cumbersome, not to mention dangerous. Highwaymen were only too happy to accost <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/innocent+travelers" rel="tag">innocent travelers</a> and make off with their coins.<br><br>So, in the 1600s, goldsmiths appeared in England and in Europe. These goldsmiths functioned a little like how banks work these days. People deposited gold and silver with them in exchange for notes of credit. Notes of credit were also called goldsmiths' notes, drafts, and bills of exchange. These were the first checks that people came to use.<br><br>The <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/california+gold+rush" rel="tag">California Gold Rush</a><br><br>The California Gold Rush during the mid-1800s also posed the same problems. Trains transporting gold and silver were attacked by robbers. In order to stop this, companies like the Wells Fargo and Co., which operated a coach line that transports gold, established a state bank chartered in California. Through the bank, they issued checks instead of transporting gold.<br><br>Because checks were becoming popular by the 1900s, the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/federal+reserve+bank" rel="tag">Federal Reserve Bank</a> Districts were established to shorten the clearing and processing time of checks. With the time to process checks shortened by this development, the new challenge of handling and sorting checks emerged.<br><br>The Birth of the MICR Toner<br><br>By the 1950s, the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/american+bankers+association" rel="tag">American Bankers Association</a> recognized the fact that it is becoming difficult to process volumes upon volumes of checks through manual handling and sorting. There was a need to automate the process completely. And so, the MICR toners came to be.<br><br>In 1956, as part of the commission to address the automation of check processing, Dr. Kenneth R. Eldredge of the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) made a study on what is now called as Magnetic Ink Character Recognition, or MICR. The use of MICR toners made checks readable by the machine as well as the human eye. Another thing that made MICR toners beautiful is that their formulation was mixed with iron oxide. Iron oxide makes it possible for machines to read the ink of MICR toners still, despite anyone writing over them or making markings or stamps.<br><br>The SRI, General Electric, and the Bank of America were in the front lines of the development of the MICR technology and MICR toners. The U.S. patent for the technology was later given to General Electric.<br><br>The final format of the fonts to be printed using MICR toners was the work of Batelle Memorial Institute, which the American Banking Association asked to administer the trial of the fonts to be made by 50 individual printers. This process gave birth to the E-13B font typically associated with checks and MICR toners.<br><br>By the 1960s, the use of MICR fonts printed with MICR toners for processing checks have become standard all over the world. But because imaging and online banking has created another revolution in the banking industry, it would not be surprising to see further changes in the development of MICR toners and MICR technology in the years to come.<bio>Lyn Askin is the owner of Inkcarts.com. To Learn More about <a href="http://www.inkcarts.com">MICR Toner</a> and <a href="http://www.inkcarts.com/micr-toner.html">MICR Toner Cartridges</a> please visit the Inkcarts Website</bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Chexsystems Problems?  Learn About Different Bank Account Options</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/chexsystems-problems-learn-about-different-bank-account-options</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/chexsystems-problems-learn-about-different-bank-account-options#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:35:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>deposit insurance corporation</category><category>money market accounts</category><category>credit union accounts</category><category>national financial institutions</category><category>federal deposit insurance</category><category>federal deposit insurance corporation</category><category>federal deposit insurance corporation fdic</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/chexsystems-problems-learn-about-different-bank-account-options</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ If you're on the ChexSystems list, it's important to understand the differences between and features of savings and checking accounts. You're probably shopping around for a better bank account, and this guide can be a big help. When it comes to finding a good place to put your money, you have lots]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ If you're on the ChexSystems list, it's important to understand the differences between and features of savings and checking accounts. You're probably shopping around for a better bank account, and this guide can be a big help. When it comes to finding a good place to put your money, you have lots of options. There are checking accounts, savings accounts, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/money+market+accounts" rel="tag">money market accounts</a> and certificate of deposits (CDs). Each one offers different benefits, fits different needs, and has different rules and requirements. When you decide what's right for you, there are a few things to consider. <br /><br /> - Some accounts can only be set up if you have a minimum deposit. If your account goes below that number, you'll be charged extra or won't receive interest. <br /><br /> - On the subject of interest, it's important to pay attention to how much is paid, and how often you'll get it. Compare rates in your local area to those from <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/national+financial+institutions" rel="tag">national financial institutions</a> at <a href="http://www.bankrate.com" >http://www.bankrate.com</a>. <br /><br /> - Find out about limits on withdrawals. Can you take out your money whenever you choose, or is there a penalty? <br /><br /> - Look for deposit insurance. A sign in the bank will tell you that your money is protected by the Federal <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/deposit+insurance+corporation" rel="tag">Deposit Insurance Corporation</a> (FDIC). <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/credit+union+accounts" rel="tag">Credit union accounts</a> also have protection, but from the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). <br /><br /> - How easy is putting money in and taking it out? Can you easily get to a bank or ATM, or would you need to get most service online or via phone? Find out if you can make electronic transfers like direct deposits, too. <br /><br /> - If you're considering getting an account with check writing privileges, you should also think about how many checks you'll get, the maximum number of checks you can write every month, and any penalties for going over that number. Find out if there's a maximum or minimum amount you can write a check for, and if there's a monthly fee for the account. Some banks will also charge you a fee for each checks, or writing more than a certain number every month. <br /><br /> - Look for policies that state there are holds on checks. If you deposit money over a certain amount into your account, there may be a waiting period before you can get to it. There might also be a longer period of waiting if you deposit out of state checks. <br /><br /> - What about overdrafts? If you accidentally write a check for more money than is in your account, you should know what happens. You could link your checking account to a savings account so you'll be protected. Otherwise, you could face high fees from bounced checks, either written to you or coming from you. Since a bounced check can be bad for your credit, being covered is a good idea. <br /><br /> Keep in mind that Check 21 (the new Check Clearing for the 21st Century Act) lets banks clear checks electronically instead of actually exchanging your paper checks. This means that there's no requirement to return your original checks with your monthly statement, or when there's a problem with a check. Instead, substitute checks are created, which are used as legal representations of the originals. However, these aren't the same as ordinary check images, which aren't eligible as substitute checks.<br /><br /><br /><br /> It's always been a good idea to ask for your canceled checks with your statement every month. Now you'll receive substitute checks each month instead. It usually takes a day or two for banks to process checks the old way. Now, however, electronic processing happens almost instantly. This means that there's no float time between writing the check and the time that the money's taken out of your account, increasing the chance that a check will bounce. If you have your employer use direct deposit, putting your paycheck directly into your account, you can deal with the change in float time. In addition to this, the faster clearing time means that it's harder to stop payment.   <bio>Kurt Lehmann is a financial services expert, writing at <a href="http://www.stopchex.com" >http://www.stopchex.com</a> and <a href="http://www.nextdaycheck.com" >http://www.nextdaycheck.com</a> about ChexSystems, payday loan, and debt issues.  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Restaurant Business: Cash, Check Or Charge?</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/restaurant-business-cash-check-or-charge</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/restaurant-business-cash-check-or-charge#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jul 2007 16:30:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>money money</category><category>money in the bank</category><category>tons of money</category><category>spend money</category><category>instant gratification</category><category>us government grants</category><category>cash checks</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/restaurant-business-cash-check-or-charge</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ How Best to Collect the Tons of Money You Will Earn with Your New Restaurant =96 Cash, Check or Charge?  Perhaps the most exciting part when establishing a restaurant, or any business for that matter, is collecting the money. What is business for but to earn? For some the only concern is the]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ How Best to Collect the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/tons+of+money" rel="tag">Tons of Money</a> You Will Earn with Your New Restaurant =96 Cash, Check or Charge? <br /><br /> Perhaps the most exciting part when establishing a restaurant, or any business for that matter, is collecting the money. What is business for but to earn? For some the only concern is the money. Money these days is no longer limited to a single monetary form but different modes as well, which may be called the three big C's =96 cash, check, and card or charge. Which is the best mode to earn? This could be a puzzling question for the aspiring entrepreneur. Hopefully, the following will help clear things up. <br /><br /> Cash: <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/instant+gratification" rel="tag">Instant Gratification</a> <br /><br /> Perhaps the most common form of money is cash. Nothing wets the appetite for business like crisp new bills. It is the monetary form you are most familiar with and thus, the one most connected to profits and earnings. Cash is good, because it is money in its clearest form, tangible and physical, it is finance incarnate. It is immediately disposable and can be used anywhere. <br /><br /> However, more people try to avoid carrying cash nowadays. First, cash can be bulky; carrying a lot entails one to bring wads of paper. Second, since cash is physical money, it is very risky and can be lost. Once it is gone, there's practically now way of retrieving it. It can easily be stolen and can even lure danger by attracting robbers and other bad elements. It can be dangerous to customers as they can easily be held up. It can be dangerous to restaurateurs as well because it can it can be easily be embezzled. While cash can give instant gratification, great security is needed to ensure its preservation. Get up to $200,000 to "move" your existing business. <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/us+government+grants" rel="tag">US Government Grants</a> for USA Citizens. Claim your FREE $79 Gov Grant book! <br /><br /> Check: Symbolic Cash <br /><br /> Checks can be very useful for people who have <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/money+in+the+bank" rel="tag">money in the bank</a>. With checks, you can still <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/spend+money" rel="tag">spend money</a> without having to carry thick bundles of paper around. Checks can be quite secure as the money it represents can only be claimed by the intended recipient, unless of course if the check is written paid to cash. <br /><br /> There are many advantages in using checks, but there are also drawbacks that could inconvenience the recipient. Checks need to be cashed, which takes time and extra effort for the collector. The money collected can't be spent immediately. Checks expire after a few months, usually six. Perhaps the greatest danger that checks may entail are insufficient funds. The customer paying with a check may not have enough money in their account. It takes more time and effort to gain the money being earned.   <bio>Guaranteed USA Government Grant for US Citizens at <a href="http://www.trustedreviews.info/money/usm/index.html" >http://www.trustedreviews.info/money/usm/index.html</a>   </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Why Spend Your Valuable Time Trying To Collect Returned Checks?</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-spend-your-valuable-time-trying-to-collect-returned-checks</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-spend-your-valuable-time-trying-to-collect-returned-checks#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Tue, 09 Oct 2007 02:20:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>check recovery</category><category>recovery service</category><category>reconcile your bank</category><category>returned checks</category><category>never been easier</category><category>electronic checks</category><category>embarrassment</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/why-spend-your-valuable-time-trying-to-collect-returned-checks</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ You can let a bad check recovery service do it for you! When your customer bounces a check, your bank forwards the returned check to the bad check recovery service that you have chosen to represent you. The check is entered into a database and re-submitted electronically via the ACH network. If an]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ You can let a bad <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/check+recovery" rel="tag">check recovery</a> service do it for you! When your customer bounces a check, your bank forwards the returned check to the bad check <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/recovery+service" rel="tag">recovery service</a> that you have chosen to represent you. The check is entered into a database and re-submitted electronically via the ACH network. If an item bounces again, the bad check recovery service then re-presents the check when funds are available. <br /><br /> You can even make a profit from your bad check recovery service. All that is required is that you post a notice stating that your customer acknowledges (by reading the posted notice of your policy for <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/returned+checks" rel="tag">returned checks</a>) that the maximum fee (less, if you prefer) allowed by the state that your business resides will be assessed for all returned checks. Then, when funds are available, you collect the face amount of the check. You then assess a second debit for the allowed state fee. Example: Texas allows a fee of $30.00 for returned checks. Your electronic bad check recovery service can collect the bad check electronically (Let's say the check was made for $150.00). Then, a second debit for $30.00 can also be collected electronically (total collected = $180.00). <br /><br /> Benefits of a bad check recovery service: Your customer does not have to: <br /><br /> =95 bring you a money order or cashier's check.  =95 receive a threatening collection letter.  =95 answer an uncomfortable phone call.  =95 spend their time resolving the problem.  =95 go through the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/embarrassment" rel="tag">embarrassment</a>! <br /><br /> A bad check recovery service is much faster and more convenient than any other method available, and it will work on any bank in the US and its territories. <br /><br /> And now with a bad check recovery service collecting out-of-town checks (or <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/electronic+checks" rel="tag">electronic checks</a> accepted from an Internet web site) has <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/never+been+easier" rel="tag">never been easier</a>! <br /><br /> With a bad check recovery service, you can access your transaction reports via the Internet anytime=9724 hours a day 7 days a week. This online real-time reporting helps you <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/reconcile+your+bank" rel="tag">reconcile your bank</a> account and keep track of the money that your bad check recovery service recovers for you. <br /><br /> Your customers benefit because bouncing a check is an embarrassing thing to deal with in person. A bad check recovery service handles it for them quietly and confidentially. Your bad check recovery service notifies your customer's bank of the transaction and adds it to their statement. <br /><br /> Successful businesses focus on their core business. A bad check recovery service solves their NSF problems so they do just that. They can FINALLY stop chasing down bad checks.   <bio>C. J. and Tuck Consulting, LLC owns and operates <a href="http://www.cashflownow.org" >http://www.cashflownow.org</a>. We specialize in Electronic Payment Processing Services and offer a complete package of electronic payment processing solutions. For more information, contact: Pat A. McDavitt, Author and Sole Manager of C. J. and Tuck Consulting, LLC Telephone: 512-837-1358 Fax: 512-837-0345  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Getting Your Hello Kitty Checks</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/getting-your-hello-kitty-checks</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/getting-your-hello-kitty-checks#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sun, 23 Dec 2007 20:29:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>japanese school girls</category><category>sanrio collection</category><category>deery lou</category><category>hello kitty bags</category><category>diva products</category><category>badtz maru</category><category>fashion diva</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/getting-your-hello-kitty-checks</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Hello Kitty is one of the most favorite cartoons in the Sanrio collection. This cartoon character was basically created along with other characters including her Papa, Mama, her boyfriend Dear Daniel, Cinnamonroll, Mory, Tippy the Bear, Chococat, Deery Lou, Thomas, ChiChai, Mimmy, Monchan, Cathy,]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ Hello Kitty is one of the most favorite cartoons in the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/sanrio+collection" rel="tag">Sanrio collection</a>. This cartoon character was basically created along with other characters including her Papa, Mama, her boyfriend Dear Daniel, Cinnamonroll, Mory, Tippy the Bear, Chococat, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/deery+lou" rel="tag">Deery Lou</a>, Thomas, ChiChai, Mimmy, Monchan, Cathy, Chibimaru, Jodie the Dog, Tim and Tammy, <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/badtz+maru" rel="tag">Badtz Maru</a>, Jody, and a whole lot of other characters. Hello Kitty was first introduced in Japan by Sanrio, a Japan-based company. <br /><br /> Hello Kitty =96 The History <br /><br /> When she was first introduced, however, Hello Kitty was nameless, but she was simply adorable that pretty soon Hello Kitty became popular among <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/japanese+school+girls" rel="tag">Japanese school girls</a>. The character's image began to appear in lunch boxes, coin purses, bags, and a lot of other items. It was only a year later that she was officially given a name. <br /><br /> The rest of the world eventually caught the Hello Kitty fever, and soon, little girls walked around carrying <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/hello+kitty+bags" rel="tag">Hello Kitty bags</a> to school. The cartoon character captured the fancy of girls in countries like the United States and the Great Britain. It was easy because Hello Kitty actually lives in London and is, in fact, a British citizen. <br /><br /> Hello Kitty's Rise to Fame <br /><br /> The popularity of Hello Kitty can also be attributed to the little details about this character which gave her life, like the fact that she likes her Mama's apple pie; or that she likes to travel, read or listen to music; or that she likes making new friends and going out with them; or that she likes to eat cookies and collect stuffs like candies and goldfish. <br /><br /> Hello Kitty's popularity gave way to her starring in several TV series in America and Japan where she played the lead role. There were also remakes of fairly tales where Hello Kitty once again played the lead role. <br /><br /> Nowadays, you could consider this feline as a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/fashion+diva" rel="tag">fashion diva</a>. Products with her images are being sold in more than 40 countries worldwide. She is featured in a wide range of products such as bags, electronic games, cars, vacuum cleaners, breath testers, beddings, camera, toys, purses, clothing =96 in fact, there is an estimated 20,000 products all exhibiting this feline's image. Nowadays, Hello Kitty is featured in personal or customized checks. <br /><br /> If you're a fan of Hello Kitty, you'd find a lot of stores online that offer printing of checks with Hello Kitty images on them. The prices vary from one online store to another, depending on the set and the number of boxes. Getting your own Hello Kitty check would be great way to make people smile. You just have to check with your bank though if they would accept a Hello Kitty check. <br /><br /> If you're pretty manly, you might have second thoughts about getting this kind of checks. Although, Hello Kitty printed checks might be tad uncomfortable for you to take out, it would certainly be surprising and funny. Imagine the receiver's expression once you hand him your Hello Kitty check. That would probably make his day. <br /><br /> For women though, paying your bills would be much cuter with Hello Kitty checks. You can also get variations of the Hello Kitty prints. They're worth looking at every single day of your life. Perhaps, you could even get the Hello Kitty printed credit card after this. <br /><br /> There are a lot of people who have ordered and are using the Hello Kitty checks, and they are having a blast with them. A lot of people would compliment or positively comment on the checks. How could they not? These checks are meant to bring out a smile or two. They even have Hello Kitty checkbook covers to go along with the checks. It would be a wise idea though to keep the checks from your daughter, she might end up playing with them if she's a Hello Kitty fan as well.   <bio>Mads Petterson collects personal checks and have a website featuring hundreds of personal check designs. Find your favorite personal checks with Hello Kitty or something else on <a href="http://www.akenaten.com" >http://www.akenaten.com</a>  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>The Importance Of Nanny Background Checks</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-importance-of-nanny-background-checks</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-importance-of-nanny-background-checks#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 08 Sep 2006 06:27:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>nanny background checks</category><category>ask</category><category>address phone number</category><category>utmost care</category><category>birth education</category><category>dummy</category><category>compulsory</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/the-importance-of-nanny-background-checks</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Remember, your nanny will play the role of a dummy mom in your absence from the house. Thus pay every single attention you can before you select a nanny for your child. Your child requires the best of all things -- best care, best atmosphere and, loads and loads of care, attention and love. Since]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Remember, your nanny will play the role of a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/dummy" rel="tag">dummy</a> mom in your absence from the house. Thus pay every single attention you can before you select a nanny for your child. Your child requires the best of all things -- best care, best atmosphere and, loads and loads of care, attention and love. Since you are unable to provide him the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/utmost+care" rel="tag">utmost care</a> due to some reason, you are hiring a domestic helper to fill up the gap. Hence it is almost <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/compulsory" rel="tag">compulsory</a> that you are fully assured of her honesty and security towards your child and your house. And to do that you need to do <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/nanny+background+checks" rel="tag">nanny background checks</a> on all of the potential hires. <br /><br /> To have a fully satisfactory bio-data of your nanny is not necessary but almost essential. And after being satisfied with it, comes the part of verification. It is most important for you to check accurately to all the details provided by her by doing nanny background checks. Any false information given by her should immediately lead you to drop her. Here are some important tips that you must undergo before appointing a nanny for your baby. <br /><br /> First and most importantly, it is necessary to have at least 3 references given by your nanny. She must be able to provide every little detail that you <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/ask" rel="tag">ask</a> for and you must ask as if you have the right to do so. After going through the interview the references she provided must be checked thoroughly. If necessary go ahead and ask questions to them about her like, when did she join? How long was she there? How was her performance? Etc, etc. This is just the first step to good nanny background checks. <br /><br /> It is essential for you to make your nanny fill up an application form before she starts off. This application form must cover all the details about her including her name, address, phone-number, date of birth, education and experience, and above all, her identity proof. After she pens down all the information it becomes your duty to investigate and do thorough nanny background checks. If she provides you with names of her close relatives or friends, you should verify them. If you find any information any misleading it is advisable to reject the candidate. And if you find her convincing, then you may go ahead and keep her. <br /><br /> It is always best to be straightforward in whatever you do. You should inform the person that you require verification on her background and make her sign an agreement with an authorized statement declaring you will be doing nanny background checks. If she hesitates then it is better to forget about her. If the task of verification becomes difficult for you, there are plenty of online background-check services available today. These agencies are reliable and take up all the responsibilities to find out everything about your nanny. These agencies are quite reasonable and very efficient in their work. Their work includes social security verification, national criminal search, sex abuse registry check, medical review and drug screening. <br /><br /> Last of all and most importantly, you must rely on your own intuition. It your intuition does not support you, meaning you do not feel confident about your child's nanny, never make a mistake of handling over your baby to her. After all, a mother's instinct can judge the best for her child's security. It is just the nanny background checks will help.   <bio>Carl Walker is the publisher of <a href="http://aupairsnanny.com/nanny-background-check.html" >http://aupairsnanny.com/nanny-background-check.html</a> Au Pairs and Nannies which provides helpful advice about nannies including nanny background checks. </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Business Health Checks - Beyond an Optional Subject</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/business-health-checks-beyond-an-optional-subject</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/business-health-checks-beyond-an-optional-subject#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Thu, 11 Sep 2008 15:50:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>business health check</category><category>health checks</category><category>ladder of success</category><category>performance efficiency</category><category>routine job</category><category>businesss</category><category>business activity</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/business-health-checks-beyond-an-optional-subject</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The concept referred to as business health checks has always existed, though perhaps on many occasions it has not been officially termed and realised as a fully fledged business activity. Organisations have internally monitored project flows, checked several accounts for business consistency and]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[The concept referred to as <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/business+health+check" rel="tag">business health check</a>s has always existed, though perhaps on many occasions it has not been officially termed and realised as a fully fledged <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/business+activity" rel="tag">business activity</a>. Organisations have internally monitored project flows, checked several accounts for business consistency and undertook various other checking roles, without realising it formed part of a business health check. But what was missing was the collaborative effort of the whole business.<br><br>What Are Business <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/health+checks" rel="tag">Health Checks</a>?<br><br>Business health checks are an extensive insight into an existent business's functioning pattern. This will analyse the various sub processes aimed at assessing the setup and thereby identifying possibilities, which could help improve upon the overall <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/performance+efficiency" rel="tag">performance efficiency</a> and effectiveness of the business.<br><br>If the definition seems like a sophisticated encapsulation of perhaps a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/routine+job" rel="tag">routine job</a> you've been doing everyday, then honestly ask yourself a simple question. When was the last time that you completely reviewed each and every aspect of your setup? A month maybe ... or actually more than that? Also while phrasing the answer, remember the term 'completely', as it is important. Whenever it was the last time you checked the business, was it an extensive inspection covering all that exists to help you generate or execute business? If in fact you can't remember when the business was looked at closely, don't worry as you are not alone.<br><br>On the whole, with people focusing on the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/ladder+of+success" rel="tag">ladder of success</a>, there are a decreasing amount of hours left for an internal scrutiny of the business. And even if the task is managed, more than often, a few corners are left untouched on account of saying 'later' or 'not important' or 'this a dead file.' Also the checks are subject to an undefined prejudice, which again beats the purpose of undertaking a comprehensive business health check.<br><br>What do Business Health Checks Entail?<br><br>Business health checks are an internal examination procedure, undertaken to bring out possible weaknesses in the business that affects the overall functioning pattern. In line with the objective, the health check begins by finding relevant answers to a predefined questionnaire. This questionnaire includes subjects like the structural pattern, internal communication procedures, project alignment vis-à-vis the overall company objective, deadline orientation, new process research and innovation, technology, competition, employees and more. The list is a detailed one, which appropriately touches upon all the aspects of the business. Based upon the findings generated from the analysis, a typical business health check helps to understand the industry norms and performance yardsticks followed by the creation of a plan to fulfil the growth and to work out the areas that require support.<br><br>Outsourcing Business Health Checks<br><br>Businesses are important and therefore they should be looked after and treated with due respect, because even minor defaults can transform to serious implications. With this in mind, business health checks should be performed on a regular basis. However, a religious commitment towards this duty might not be possible within a business, so outsourcing the health check task to an established company would be the next best course of action.<br><br>Ascertaining the Right Company for Your Business<br><br>There are several companies to choose from when it comes to performing business health checks. As a general guide, ask yourself: do they propose to undertake the diligent task of business health checks on your behalf; are they well experience in Office of Government Commerce's (OGC) Best Practice methodologies; are they suitably equipped to closely analyse the business functioning pattern in line with the industry norms, set objectives and therefore suggest an optimal course for the business; are the business health check services a comprehensive assessment exercise, which includes the relevant check facets? If you've answered 'yes' to all the questions, then you have found the company which will best perform your business health checks.<bio>Brian Kelly wrote the Article 'Business Health Checks - Beyond an Optional Subject' and recommends you visit http://www.afaprojects.com/consultancy_healthchecks.asp for more information on <a href="http://www.afaprojects.com/consultancy_healthchecks.asp">business health checks</a>.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Electronic Check Conversion And How It Works</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/electronic-check-conversion-and-how-it-works</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/electronic-check-conversion-and-how-it-works#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jan 2008 09:30:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>electronic check conversion</category><category>electronic fund transfer</category><category>sales receipt</category><category>two different ways</category><category>check payments</category><category>electronic transaction</category><category>routing number</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/electronic-check-conversion-and-how-it-works</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Electronic check conversion is becoming more popular these days and consumers should know what it is and how it can affect them. The last thing anyone wants is to bounce a check or to have a clerk deny a sale because of a lack of funds in your account.  So what is electronic check conversion?  In]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/electronic+check+conversion" rel="tag">Electronic check conversion</a> is becoming more popular these days and consumers should know what it is and how it can affect them. The last thing anyone wants is to bounce a check or to have a clerk deny a sale because of a lack of funds in your account. <br /><br /> So what is electronic check conversion? <br /><br /> In simple terms, electronic check conversion is a transaction in which your written check is used only as a source of information. The information taken from it includes the check number, your account number, and the number that identifies your financial institution or the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/routing+number" rel="tag">routing number</a>. This information about your check is then used to make a one-time electronic payment from your account. This is also known as an electronic funds transfer. The written check itself is not the method of payment, which is the main difference between what we used to know about <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/check+payments" rel="tag">check payments</a>. <br /><br /> You will know that an electronic check conversion is taking place because, by law, when you provide your check, you must be given notice that information from your check may be used to make an electronic payment from your account. <br /><br /> Consumers should understand that there may be different ways that this information is given to them. For example, a credit card company might put a notice in your monthly bill telling you that if you pay by written check, your check may be used to make an <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/electronic+fund+transfer" rel="tag">electronic fund transfer</a> from your bank account. <br /><br /> For those who use checks at stores that use electronic check conversion, you will receive notice in <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/two+different+ways" rel="tag">two different ways</a>. The first notice is a posted sign, usually located at the register, which states that if you pay by written check you are agreeing to let the store make an electronic fund transfer from your account. The second notification is a copy of the posted notice that you keep for your records. In most cases, this second notice usually appears on your <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/sales+receipt" rel="tag">sales receipt</a>. <br /><br /> It is important for all consumers to understand that an <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/electronic+transaction" rel="tag">electronic transaction</a> may be processed faster than a check. For this reason you want to make sure that you have the money in your account when you make the transaction. <br /><br /> Your bank will not return any checks that are converted, even if you normally receive your original checks or images of those checks with your statement. This is something new to many consumers. In addition, you have different rights with an electronic check conversion transaction than you do with your normal check payments. <br /><br /> With an electronic check conversion, consumers have the legal right to an investigation by bank when an error occurs. Consumers also have the right to receive notice that if they provide a check as payment, information from the check may be used to make an electronic payment from their account. You must also be notified of any fees that the store collects if there is not enough money in your account to cover the transaction. <br /><br /> Consumers should understand that merchants can charge for non-sufficient funds just as they can do with written checks if there is not enough money to cover the purchase. This is the same as with written checks.   <bio>Peter Kenny is a writer for The Thrifty Scot, please visit us at <a href="http://www.loansubmit.co.uk/debt-consolidation-loan/" >http://www.loansubmit.co.uk/debt-consolidation-loan/</a> and <a href="http://www.thriftyscot.co.uk/Mortgages/" >http://www.thriftyscot.co.uk/Mortgages/</a> Visit <a href="http://www.thriftyscot.com" >http://www.thriftyscot.com</a>  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>12 Things You Might Not Know About Background Checks</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/12-things-you-might-not-know-about-background-checks</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/12-things-you-might-not-know-about-background-checks#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Tue, 28 Nov 2006 08:27:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>background checks</category><category>job application</category><category>job candidate</category><category>job applications</category><category>applying for a job</category><category>notre dame football</category><category>radio shack</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/12-things-you-might-not-know-about-background-checks</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you're applying for a job today, the chances are excellent that you will have to pass a background check to get hired. In fact, over 90% of companies now run background checks on all applicants. Before you sit down to fill out that very important job application, here are 12 facts you might not]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[If you're <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/applying+for+a+job" rel="tag">applying for a job</a> today, the chances are excellent that you will have to pass a background check to get hired. In fact, over 90% of companies now run <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/background+checks" rel="tag">background checks</a> on all applicants. Before you sit down to fill out that very important <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/job+application" rel="tag">job application</a>, here are 12 facts you might not know about background checks: <br /><br /> * According to Workforce Management, over 45 million background checks were run during the past year. <br /><br /> * Most companies use a candidate's job application, not resume, when running a background check. <br /><br /> * 86% of businesses say that inaccuracies on a job application can take a <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/job+candidate" rel="tag">job candidate</a> out of consideration. <br /><br /> * Half of all <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/job+applications" rel="tag">job applications</a> contain discrepancies. <br /><br /> * Well-known people who were caught lying on their resumes and job applications: <br /><br /> o Dave Edmondsen -- Chief executive of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/radio+shack" rel="tag">Radio Shack</a>  o George Deutsch -- Bush appointee at NASA  o Alan Seman -- Mayor of Rancho Mirage  o George O'Leary -- <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/notre+dame+football" rel="tag">Notre Dame Football</a> Coach  o Kenneth Lonchar -- CFO at Veritas Software <br /><br /> * Companies generally don't tell applicants what types of information they are going to look at during a background check. <br /><br /> * Although many hiring companies do call references, they don't always call the ones supplied by the applicant. <br /><br /> * Most companies don't give an applicant a chance to correct negative information on a background report. <br /><br /> * The Federal Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is the federal law that deals with background checks. In addition, each state can pass its own laws that cover pre-employment screening. <br /><br /> * Many states have passed laws that allow a former employer to speak candidly about previous employees. <br /><br /> * A recent study showed that over 40% of employers revealed more information about previous employees than what was required by law. <br /><br /> * There is no such thing as a national criminal database. There are databases that contain partial information, but there is no database that contains information on every crime committed in the U.S. <br /><br /> One of the most important things you can do is prepare for your background check. Make sure that your hire and termination dates are right. Explain any gaps in your employment history. Confirm that your records are available. Many people lose job opportunities because prospective employers can't verify their background. <br /><br /> Remember, no matter how qualified you are, you won't get hired if you don't pass the background check.   <bio>Jan Maxwell is the author of "A Job Hunter's Secret Weapon: How to Survive a Background Check and Get the Job You Really Want" <a href="http://www.jobhunterssecretweapon.com" >http://www.jobhunterssecretweapon.com</a> It's the first book that takes job applicants inside a real background check, explains how information gets verified. </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Stress Less Moving:  Part 1:  The Bank</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/stress-less-moving-part-1-the-bank</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/stress-less-moving-part-1-the-bank#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sun, 26 Aug 2007 07:30:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>atm card</category><category>checks</category><category>opening a new account</category><category>open a new account</category><category>giving notice</category><category>renting a truck</category><category>crucial</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/stress-less-moving-part-1-the-bank</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ I moved several times in the past few years, from across town to thousands of miles away. I've learned a lot. The last time I moved a friend of mine said, "Oh my, you are so organized, you should right a book to help people like me who get so stressed from all this." OK, so it's not a book, but I]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ I moved several times in the past few years, from across town to thousands of miles away. I've learned a lot. The last time I moved a friend of mine said, "Oh my, you are so organized, you should right a book to help people like me who get so stressed from all this." OK, so it's not a book, but I hope this series of articles helps you to get to your new address with less stress and more organization. <br /><br /> When preparing for a move there are few things you need to do up front. <br /><br /> If you are moving a short distance, some of these tips will not apply, like <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/giving+notice" rel="tag">giving notice</a> at your job. If you are able to go from your old address to your new one in a short amount of time, something like water or cable service will not be a problem. You will be able to use them at your new address if you run into problems leaving your old one. <br /><br /> Number one is DECIDE ON A DATE. This is <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/crucial" rel="tag">crucial</a>, as this date will trigger dates for many upcoming tasks such as <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/renting+a+truck" rel="tag">renting a truck</a>, opening new bank account, canceling utility accounts and giving notice at your job. <br /><br /> IF YOU ARE MOVING OUT OF THE AREA <br /><br /> BANKING <br /><br /> Check to see if your bank has a local branch in your new community. If it does, don't forget to notify them of your new address. You may want to order new <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/checks" rel="tag">checks</a> with your new address and phone number on them. If not, open an account with a bank in your new locale. When <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/opening+a+new+account" rel="tag">opening a new account</a> the bank will send checks and an <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/atm+card" rel="tag">ATM card</a> to your new address. This usually takes 7-10 business days (check with your new bank for their processing schedule). You do not want to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/open+a+new+account" rel="tag">open a new account</a> if you will not be at your new address when your checks and ATM card arrive. Many banks will let you open an account on-line. Opening an account online will allow you to do so before you leave your old address. Time it right and you will be at your new address to receive your checks and ATM card. Make the minimum deposit required and when you get to your new address, your account will be ready to do business with checks printed with your new address, an ATM card to access your funds at the local bank, deposit funds from your old bank account, and set up direct deposit for your new job. <br /><br /> Look for the rest of the Stress LESS Move series of articles for helpful information on making your move as painless as possible. <br /><br /> Good Luck! See you in The Stress LESS Move, Part 2: The Truck.  Nadine Borrelli   <bio>Nadine Borrelli is a freelance writer who writes articles on a variety of subjects. If you need extra income to help pay for your move, or maybe extra money to pay for your new home, or to get you through while you find employment in your new area, check out her website for great home based business ideas. Ordinary people are making extraordinary money working from home on the internet. <a href="http://www.FreeMeUp.biz" >http://www.FreeMeUp.biz</a>  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>How Many Affiliate Checks Do You Want To Receive?</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-many-affiliate-checks-do-you-want-to-receive</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-many-affiliate-checks-do-you-want-to-receive#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sun, 12 Aug 2007 23:15:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>affiliate marketing</category><category>checks</category><category>return profits</category><category>make money online</category><category>affiliate marketers</category><category>marketer</category><category>use your imagination</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/how-many-affiliate-checks-do-you-want-to-receive</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Affiliate Marketing is by far, one of the easiest ways to make money online. It is a revenue sharing business relationship between the affiliate who agrees to promote the products or services, and the merchant who offers them.  The affiliate advertises the merchant's products and services and gets]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/affiliate+marketing" rel="tag">Affiliate Marketing</a> is by far, one of the easiest ways to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/make+money+online" rel="tag">make money online</a>. It is a revenue sharing business relationship between the affiliate who agrees to promote the products or services, and the merchant who offers them. <br /><br /> The affiliate advertises the merchant's products and services and gets a commission for every successful referral. Every time a customer is referred to the merchant's site, through the affiliate's efforts, and makes a purchase, the affiliate gets a share of the profit. No payment is due to the affiliate until successful results are realized. Compensation is based on either number of visits (Pay-per-click), registrant (Pay-per-lead), or commission for each sale (Pay-per-sale). <br /><br /> <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/affiliate+<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/marketer" rel="tag">marketer</a>s" rel="tag">Affiliate Marketers</a> can earn a few bucks to thousands of dollars with affiliate programs. The opportunity to earn in affiliate marketing can only be limited by the affiliate's determination, creativity and strategy. It is a brilliant way to earn online, and you do not have to produce your own product or service to make a buck. By advertising your merchant's products passionately, you get more in return. Profits in affiliate marketing usually start small but can get larger as the campaign starts to build up steam. <br /><br /> There are many ways that an affiliate marketer can do to maximize their profits. If you ask any affiliate marketer how many affiliate <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/checks" rel="tag">checks</a> they would want to receive, they will most likely want to get as many as possible. Some affiliate checks are small, amounting to nothing more than $25.  While others are large and can easily reach the thousands and even more. Over time, these affiliate checks may build up to a really impressive amount. However, making a fortune in affiliate marketing is not instant. You should put in enough work and effort as well. You have to <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/use+your+imagination" rel="tag">use your imagination</a> to find more ways to attract more web traffic that can convert to sales for the merchant and profit for you as well. <br /><br /> How many affiliate checks do you want to receive? Most affiliate marketers will enthusiastically reply that they want to receive as many affiliate checks as possible. However, is it as easy as it sounds? Does joining many affiliate marketers guarantee more affiliate checks that really amount to something? The answer is No. Most affiliate marketers assume that joining multiple affiliate programs is a wise option. Because, it is very easy to join affiliate programs and there is really nothing to lose, affiliate marketers are tempted to join as many programs they can get their hands on. Thus, they fail to give their affiliate programs enough attention and work that they ought to receive. The maximum potential of the affiliate programs are not realized and the resulting income from these programs will almost certainly be disappointing. <br /><br /> The best way to achieve multiple streams of income is to concentrate on one affiliate program first. Choose a product or service that you can promote passionately. Pick a product in which you have complete trust. The best products and services to promote are those that you use personally. Your prospects will be able to sense your sincerity whenever you promote a product that you have experienced. This will greatly enhance your credibility as well as your product's marketability and will really encourage your prospect to purchase or avail of the product or service. <br /><br /> As soon as your first affiliate program is making a reasonable profit then you can proceed to joining another affiliate program and repeat the process. "Too much, too soon" is a common pitfall in affiliate marketing. Joining too many affiliate programs simultaneously in the hopes of having multiple streams of income simply does not work. <br /><br /> Focus first on one affiliate program and work on it so that it makes a good profit. Then, go find another promising program and give it your best effort. The question should not be how many affiliate checks you want to receive, but how many "high-paying" affiliate checks can you receive. The answer lies in your determination to succeed and determination to maximize your earning potential. With the right tools, the right actions, and perseverance you can definitely make a good profit out of affiliate marketing.   <bio>David M.Disch is the Owner of <a href="http://ddisch77.com" >http://ddisch77.com</a> and City Affiliate Manager for Search Big Daddy <a href="http://www.ddisch77.com" >http://www.ddisch77.com</a>   </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>What Are The Benefits Of A Cash Advance Loan?</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-are-the-benefits-of-a-cash-advance-loan</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-are-the-benefits-of-a-cash-advance-loan#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Sat, 02 Dec 2006 06:27:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>cash advance loans</category><category>payday loans</category><category>need cash fast</category><category>credit checks</category><category>credit cards</category><category>short term loan</category><category>pay day loan</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/what-are-the-benefits-of-a-cash-advance-loan</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Cash advance or payday loans are one of the quickest ways to get hold of money when you are short of funds. They are predominantly used to cover your expenses until your next payday, when you pay back the loan in full. If you find yourself short at the end of the month and need cash fast, then you]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Cash advance or <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/payday+loans" rel="tag">payday loans</a> are one of the quickest ways to get hold of money when you are short of funds. They are predominantly used to cover your expenses until your next payday, when you pay back the loan in full. If you find yourself short at the end of the month and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/need+cash+fast" rel="tag">need cash fast</a>, then you should look at getting a cash advance loan. Here are some tips about the benefits of a cash advance loan. <br /><br /> What is a cash advance loan? <br /><br /> A cash advance loan is a short-term loan that is meant for people who need cash quickly due to a temporary shortage of funds. Usually, you can get hold of a cash advance or <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/pay+day+loan" rel="tag">pay day loan</a> within a few hours of applying. You are simply required to be in regular employment and fill out a few bank details. You can borrow anything up to about £500 depending on your needs and job circumstances. <br /><br /> No <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/credit+checks" rel="tag">credit checks</a> <br /><br /> One of the major advantages of <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/cash+advance+loans" rel="tag">cash advance loans</a> is that no credit checks are required for you to get hold of the loan. All you have to do is provide details of your employer and you can get hold of the loan. This makes the application process extremely fast and helps you to get the money when you need it most. <br /><br /> Great for emergencies <br /><br /> If you have trouble getting hold of other loans or <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/credit+cards" rel="tag">credit cards</a> and have an emergency situation that requires money, there might not be time to find the funds elsewhere. A cash advance loan gives you the opportunity to get hold of the money you need quickly and at a relatively low cost. <br /><br /> Costs of cash advance loans <br /><br /> Although cash advance loans are relatively cheap if you pay back the loan quickly, you are still paying for the convenience of being able to get money quickly with very little checks. This means that you will pay a percentage of the amount you borrow as a fee, usually around 10%. If you pay back the loan when you next get paid at the end of the month, then this will be all you have to pay. However, if you can't pay this back, then you will be charged again and again until you do. This could mean that in just 6 weeks you will have been charged £90 on a loan of just £300. This can lead you to get into a vicious circle where each month you have to get a cash advance loan just to stay afloat. <br /><br /> What are the alternatives? <br /><br /> The alternatives to cash advance loans are limited, especially if you don't have a credit card or a family member who can lend you the money. Although they can be expensive, if you use cash advance loans wisely for emergency situations and special circumstances, you will find them a great way to get hold of much needed cash at short notice without the usual credit checks and long approval processes.   <bio>Peter Kenny is a writer for The Thrifty Scot, please visit us at <a href="http://www.loanwize.co.uk" >http://www.loanwize.co.uk</a> and <a href="http://www.thriftyscot.co.uk/Loans/" >http://www.thriftyscot.co.uk/Loans/</a> </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>4 Benefits of ACH Processing</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/4-benefits-of-ach-processing</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/4-benefits-of-ach-processing#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2008 03:22:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<category></category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/4-benefits-of-ach-processing</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The ACH processing network connects financial institutions throughout the U.S. Overseen by the regulatory agency, NACHA, this network supports the seamless transfer of funds in and out of bank accounts. As the costs of accepting physical checks is rising, business owners are looking for ways to run]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/" rel="tag"></a>The ACH processing network connects financial institutions throughout the U.S. Overseen by the regulatory agency, NACHA, this network supports the seamless transfer of funds in and out of bank accounts. As the costs of accepting physical checks is rising, business owners are looking for ways to run their companies more efficiently. Many businesses are turning to ACH processing to expand their customer base and increase their revenues. In this article, you'll discover 4 benefits of using ACH processing for your business.<br><br>#1 - Faster Access To Funds<br><br>Often, merchant banks will not release funds from credit and debit card transactions for several days or weeks. They want to protect themselves from the risk of not getting paid. That is, if they release the funds to the merchant prior to receiving them from the issuing bank, the transaction could later be denied. ACH processing is much quicker. Funds are often available within 1 or 2 days because the funds clear through the network more quickly.<br><br>#2 - More Convenient<br><br>Any business owner who has accepted checks for purchases knows how inconvenient they are. Customers forget to sign the checks, leaving employees responsible for double checking the information. The checks can easily become lost. Plus, a merchant must endorse the checks and then travel to the bank to deposit them. Often, checks bounce and merchants are forced to pay extra fees. All of these things take time. By contrast, ACH processing precludes the use of checks. The money for a purchase can be debited directly from a customer's checking account. It is much more convenient, saving time and money.<br><br>#3 - Cost Effective<br><br>Many merchant accounts and third party payment processors charge high fees for each transaction. What's more, the fees increase with the size of the transaction. In other words, the fees that a merchant will pay to process a large purchase will be more than those applied to small purchases. By contrast, the fees that are applied for each ACH transaction are fixed, regardless of transaction size. While a large purchase that is processed through a merchant account may cost several dollars in fees, an ACH transaction will typically cost less than $.50.<br><br>#4 - Easy Recurring Payments<br><br>There are millions of businesses which charge customers' credit cards monthly or annually. For example, newsletter publishers, book and music clubs, and health food companies often levy monthly membership fees. Aside from a few administrative tasks, the recurring billing is automated. By setting up the billing through the ACH network, the recurring payments can be received more quickly for a lower cost.<br><br>Is ACH Processing The Right Solution?<br><br>Most businesses will find the benefits offered by ACH processing valuable. The faster access to funds can be critical to business owners who need cash flow to maintain daily operations. The increased convenience of eliminating checks can save an enormous amount of time. The lower transaction fees are reflected in the bottom line. And the ACH network's ability to support recurring payments make it an attractive solution.<br><br>One potential drawback is that the ACH network only connects financial institutions in the U.S. If you conduct the majority of your business in other countries, ACH processing may not be appropriate for you. That being said, if your business is focused primarily in the U.S., consider using a merchant account that allows you to integrate ACH transaction processing. You can enjoy the benefits of both solutions, taking advantage of each as circumstances allow.<bio>This article is brought to you by PaySimple, a leading provider of <a href="http://www.paysimple.com/merchant_account.html">merchant account</a> services.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>MICR Toner Printing - The Basics</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/micr-toner-printing-the-basics</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/micr-toner-printing-the-basics#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Fri, 29 Aug 2008 01:50:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>magnetic ink character recognition</category><category>magnetic qualities</category><category>ink stamps</category><category>micr line</category><category>micr printing</category><category>micr toner</category><category>toner micr</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/micr-toner-printing-the-basics</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Have you ever noticed the line of numbers printed at the bottom of each check in your checkbook? This part of your check is special because it is printed using a special type of ink. The line, called the MICR line, is unique line because it is printed with a specific type of ink, called an MICR]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[Have you ever noticed the line of numbers printed at the bottom of each check in your checkbook? This part of your check is special because it is printed using a special type of ink. The line, called the <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/micr+line" rel="tag">MICR line</a>, is unique line because it is printed with a specific type of ink, called an <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/micr+toner" rel="tag">MICR toner</a>. The MICR line is special because it contains information about the check, who issued it and where it came from. This information can be decoded by the bank.<br><br>Why Print With MICR Toners?<br><br>Consider the number of people and businesses all over the world that use checks. Each year, billions of checks are written and issued. It would be extremely difficult, actually impossible, to keep track of all of these checks without an automated process. MICR toner is a crucial part of the automated process.<br><br>Banks use industry-specific machines called reader-sorters. The reader-sorter processes every check the bank receives. The reader-sorter is equipped with MICR technology. MICR is actually pronounced "My-ker" and it is an acronym for <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/magnetic+ink+character+recognition" rel="tag">magnetic ink character recognition</a>. The reader-sorter can read the codes on checks that have been made using MICR toner.<br><br>How MICR Toners Work<br><br>Reader-sorter machines use MICR technology to read the codes printed with MICR toner. MICR toner contains iron oxide, which is a chemical compound that exhibits <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/magnetic+qualities" rel="tag">magnetic qualities</a>.<br><br>Why is magnetic ink necessary? Think about the last check you got back from the bank. More than likely, it was written on and covered with various <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/ink+stamps" rel="tag">ink stamps</a>. If the numeric check codes, or MICR lines, were printed with normal ink, any additional ink placed on top of the code would make the code impossible to read. However, the magnetic ink can be read no matter what is written or stamped on top of it. The rules governing the standards for MICR toners and <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/micr+printing" rel="tag">MICR printing</a> are made and enforced by the American National Standards Institute X9 Committee.<br><br>The Characters Printed with MICR Toners<br><br>The MICR line on checks must be printed using certain characters so that the reader-sorter machines will read them correctly. The font used for MICR lines is also unique to specific parts of the world. For example, a font called CMC-7 is used for Israel, South America, and the various Mediterranean countries, while the font E-13B is used for the rest of the world including the United States.<br><br>There are only 14 characters used in MICR fonts. The characters consist of the numbers 0 to 9 and symbols for Transit, Amount, On-Us, and Dash. The characters in MICR fonts are exactly 1/8th of an inch wide and they must be precisely placed on a check in order for the reader-sorter to decipher them correctly.<br><br>MICR Toners for Precision and Secure Printing<br><br>MICR toner was initially created as a tool to help banks minimize the amount of time it took to process checks. However, an unexpected benefit of the MICR toner is increased security. The precision required to create and read MICR technology creates a built-in form of security.<br><br>Because of the security benefit of MICR toner, other institutions have adopted this technology. Airline tickets, insurance premium receipts, and sales promotions are now printed using MICR toner.<bio>To Learn More about <a href="http://www.inkcarts.com/troy-systems-micr-toner.html">Troy MICR Toner</a> or <a href="http://www.inkcarts.com/micr-toner.html">MICR Toner Cartridges</a> please visit the Inkcarts Website.</bio>]]></content:encoded>
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				<title>Choose The Right Banking Account For Your Needs</title>
		<link>http://www.artwoo.com/article/choose-the-right-banking-account-for-your-needs</link>
		<comments>http://www.artwoo.com/article/choose-the-right-banking-account-for-your-needs#comments</comments>
				<pubDate>Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:35:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<category>money market accounts</category><category>money market account</category><category>types of bank accounts</category><category>typical savings</category><category>interest money</category><category>minimum balance</category><category>money work</category>		<guid>http://www.artwoo.com/article/choose-the-right-banking-account-for-your-needs</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ Did you know? Recently there has been a commercial for the bank down the street which is offering a free bank account! It sounds like a great idea but before you go sign up for that account and start banking with any specific bank you should know that bank accounts are not one size fits all.  When]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[ Did you know? Recently there has been a commercial for the bank down the street which is offering a free bank account! It sounds like a great idea but before you go sign up for that account and start banking with any specific bank you should know that bank accounts are not one size fits all. <br /><br /> When you understand the different <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/types+of+bank+accounts" rel="tag">types of bank accounts</a> you can actually make your <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/money+work" rel="tag">money work</a> for you in the best possible way. <br /><br /> Different Types of Bank Accounts <br /><br /> Usually the accounts that you see offered on commercials are the checking accounts. These are the most common type of bank account as they allow you to withdraw money from your account by writing checks and with a debit card. <br /><br /> For people who need to have access to their money without having to jump through hoops or wait for a check to be cut, etc, these accounts serve as a great option. Some checking accounts pay interest, allowing you to take advantage of average daily balances, but most typical checking accounts, also known as a demand deposit account, will not pay interest. <br /><br /> <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/money+market+accounts" rel="tag"><a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/money+market+account" rel="tag">Money market account</a>s</a> offer interest on the accounts as well as allows you to write checks on it. A money market account allows for you to benefit from a higher rate of interest than your <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/typical+savings" rel="tag">typical savings</a> or checking account, but they do require that you have a higher <a href="http://www.artwoo.com/tag/minimum+balance" rel="tag">minimum balance</a> than you would have to have with other accounts. <br /><br /> Unlike checking account, withdrawing funds is not always that simple although you can write with checks on these accounts. In addition, there are usually more fees associated with this type of account, making it a good option for those that don't necessarily need to access the cash. <br /><br /> Another common type of account are the savings account. This is the type of account that most people use to keep the bulk of their money in. Although you do not have the benefit of being able to write checks from the account, these accounts offer the benefit of interest. You may be limited as to the number of withdrawals or transfers that you are allowed to make each month and if you go over you may be charged a small fee. <br /><br /> Besides these, there are time deposit accounts, or certification of deposits or CDs. These accounts offer guaranteed interest rates and allow for the account holder to choose how long they would like their money to be on deposit, you can generally choose anywhere from a few days to a few years. <br /><br /> If you want to earn a high rate of interest on a specific amount of money this is a great choice but this is not the type of account that you want if you need to access the money. <br /><br /> As you can see, there are many different account types for you to choose from. You must discuss all your options with the bank before you end up choosing one. If you still aren't sure let them know what you will be using your account for and they will likely be able to help you make the right choice for your financial needs.   <bio>Get the best deals on savings accounts at <a href="http://www.nationsfinance.co.uk/banking/savings-accounts.html" >http://www.nationsfinance.co.uk/banking/savings-accounts.html</a> If you need a business bank account <a href="http://www.nationsfinance.co.uk/banking/" >http://www.nationsfinance.co.uk/banking/</a> come and explore your options for current accounts at <a href="http://www.nationsfinance.co.uk/banking/current-accounts.html" >http://www.nationsfinance.co.uk/banking/current-accounts.html</a>  </bio>]]></content:encoded>
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