1. Paper jams and multiple sheets are feeding at once because check paper has not been separated properly
The best way to separate blank check stock and reduce MICR printer paper jams is to fan them out, and there are different ways to do this. Many people simply hold one end of the stack of paper and flip through the pages, then do the same at the other end.
Another way is to take the stack of check paper, hold it loosely by the short ends with the long edge resting on a surface, fold the ends toward you like an inverted “U”, squeeze the short ends tightly, and then straighten the paper again, which does a good job of separating the paper in the middle.
Then turn your hands in opposite directions from each other and the parting will extend to the ends. Then insert the paper into the tray. Following these steps should minimize the chances of paper jams and speed up your daily paper feed operation.
2. Printer errors: message 242.09 or 243.09
If one of these printer errors appears on the screen, it means that the guide on the right side of the paper tray is not tight enough against the check paper in the tray. Manually adjust the guide to make sure it is snug against it. This should resolve any problematic printer errors.
3. Paper jam: Dirty pickup tires (rollers)
Jams occur when the printer tries to pull a check sheet from the tray but cannot. Most of the time, it’s because the selection wheels (also known as rollers) that feed the verification material are contaminated with paper dust or toner. Clean the rollers with an alcohol pad by wiping them while turning them.
NOTE: If fanning the paper as described in #1 above and cleaning the pickup wheels does not solve the problem, the printer most likely needs to be serviced. If this is a problem you are experiencing, contact your MICR printer manufacturer’s technical support line for help on what your next step should be.
4. The paper curls The paper comes out of the printer
This is usually not a problem with the printer, but rather a problem with the moisture content of the check paper. It’s important to properly store your blank check stock by keeping it wrapped in its original packaging until ready to use. In humid areas, any unused material should be stored in a covered plastic container to prevent additional moisture from coming into contact with the paper.