How to Change a Check Template in Sage 100

Understanding Check Templates in Sage 100

Before making any changes, it's essential to understand that Sage 100 uses form codes to manage different check printing formats. The default "Standard" form code does not retain any modifications, so creating a custom form code is necessary for permanent changes.

Creating a New Form Code

Initial Setup Start by creating a new form code rather than modifying the Standard template. This approach ensures your changes are preserved for future use. The process begins in the Check Printing module:

1. Navigate to the Check Printing setup screen
2. Enter a unique form code name in the Form Code field
3. The Template Selection window will automatically appear

Template Selection When creating a new form code, you'll be presented with template options. Choose a base template that most closely matches your desired format. This serves as your starting point for customization.

Configuring Check Layout Options

Basic Layout Settings The check layout can be configured in multiple formats:

• Check-Stub
• Stub-Check-Stub
• Check-Stub-Stub

Print Format Options You can customize various aspects of the check printing format:

• Multi-Part Form settings
• ANSI format options
• Distribution information
• Remittance information

Advanced Customization Using Crystal Reports Designer

Designer Access For more detailed customization:

1. Select your form code
2. Click the Designer button (requires Crystal Reports Designer installation)
3. Make necessary modifications to the template

Saving and Testing

Save Configuration After making changes:

1. Save the new form code with your preferred settings
2. Set it as the default for the relevant bank code
3. Verify all settings are correctly saved

Test Printing Before using the new template for actual checks:

1. Print a test check on plain paper
2. Verify alignment using the measurement grid
3. Make necessary adjustments
4. Repeat until properly aligned

Bank Code Integration

Bank Code Settings Each bank code can have its own default form code:

1. Access Bank Code Maintenance
2. Assign the new form code as the default
3. Verify settings for each relevant bank account

Paperless Office Integration

Digital Output Options The new template can be configured for various output methods:

• PDF generation
• Email delivery
• Fax transmission
• Electronic payment processing

Security and Access Control

User Permissions Ensure proper security settings:

1. Verify user access rights
2. Set appropriate permissions for template modification
3. Document any changes made to the template

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Alignment Problems If check alignment is incorrect:

1. Use the measurement grid
2. Count grid squares for necessary adjustments
3. Make incremental changes until aligned properly

Printing Issues For optimal printing results:

1. Install the latest Adobe Reader
2. Use Google Chrome as the default browser
3. Set browser zoom to 100%
4. Verify printer settings are correct

Best Practices

Template Management Follow these guidelines for optimal template management:

1. Create descriptive form code names
2. Document all modifications
3. Maintain backup copies of custom templates
4. Regular testing of templates

Version Control Maintain proper version control:

1. Date all template modifications
2. Keep records of changes made
3. Test thoroughly after updates

Technical Requirements

System Prerequisites Ensure your system meets these requirements:

1. Latest version of Adobe Reader
2. Updated browser version
3. Proper printer configuration
4. Crystal Reports Designer (for advanced modifications)

Maintenance and Updates

Regular Maintenance Perform these maintenance tasks:

1. Regular template testing
2. Periodic alignment checks
3. Update settings as needed
4. Verify compliance with banking requirements

Professional Considerations

Business Requirements Consider these factors when modifying templates:

1. Company branding requirements
2. Banking regulations
3. Security features
4. Processing efficiency

Integration with Other Modules

Module Compatibility Ensure template changes work with:

1. Accounts Payable
2. Payroll
3. Electronic payment systems
4. Bank reconciliation modules

Future Considerations

Scalability Plan for future needs:

1. Multiple bank account support
2. Different check stock types
3. Changing business requirements
4. Regulatory compliance updates

Documentation and Training

Process Documentation Maintain detailed records of:

1. Template modifications
2. Configuration settings
3. User procedures
4. Troubleshooting steps

This comprehensive approach to changing check templates in Sage 100 ensures a smooth transition and proper functionality for your check printing needs. Remember to always test thoroughly before implementing changes in a live environment and maintain proper documentation for future reference.

Citations: [1] https://communityhub.sage.com/us/sage100/f/core-financial-modules/154359/check-printing-setup-stub-check-stub-sage-100 [2] https://help.sbc.sage.com/en-us/start/settings/check-printing-settings.html [3] https://www.acutedata.com/how-to-modify-payroll-check-and-direct-deposit-stubs-in-sage-100/ [4] https://www.erpvar.com/sage-100cloud-erp-consultant-blog/bid/94736/sage-100-erp-sage-mas-90-v-4-5-how-to-create-new-check-form-code [5] https://help-sage100.na.sage.com/2018/Subsystems/AP/APCHECKFIELD/Check_Printing_-_Fields.htm