Do I really need magnetic ink or toner?

For checks read by automated bank equipment, magnetic ink or toner is what makes the MICR band readable. Standard toner prints characters that look correct but may not be read magnetically, which can cause a check to be rejected or handled by hand.

Some banks no longer require magnetic ink. If yours says it is not required, also confirm that other banks receiving your checks will not reject them at their end. If there is any doubt, stay with MICR.