You have two real options for the signature on a printed check: print a signature image as part of the check layout, or sign each check by hand (a "wet signature") after printing. Which one makes sense depends on volume and your bank's policies.
Printing the signature
Most check software lets you upload an image of your signature and place it on the signature line automatically. This is common for high-volume check runs like payroll, where hand-signing every check isn't practical.
- Check with your bank first — some require a signed authorization on file before they'll honor checks with a printed signature.
- Keep the signature image reasonably secure, since it's included on every check that uses it.
- A clean, high-contrast scan or photo of your signature on white paper works best — avoid shadows or background noise.
Signing by hand instead
For lower volumes, or when your bank requires it, leave the signature line blank in the software and sign each check by hand after it prints and before you hand it over.
Check Writer 123 lets you save a typed or image-based signature per bank account, so it's consistent across every check — or you can leave it blank and sign physically, whichever your bank requires.