Can Your Builder CPA Print and Mail Checks for You? Here's the Real Answer

Introduction: One question Jon Markee, your Builder CPA, often gets is: “Can you print and mail checks for me?” While the answer is technically yes, the better question is: Should we? In this post, we’ll unpack why relying on printed checks—especially from your accountant’s office—isn’t ideal, and what secure, modern alternatives are better suited for today’s home builders.

The Short Answer: Technically Yes, But Not Ideal

At MyBuilderCPA, we can print and mail checks for our clients, but it's not the route we recommend. There are several practical and security-related concerns that make this method outdated—and risky.

Checks Aren’t Secure

Printed checks expose your business to fraud. Your routing and account numbers are clearly displayed, making it easy for scammers to withdraw money electronically. Even if you recover the funds later, the damage in the short term can be severe—especially when you’re trying to manage cash flow and payroll in a construction business.

Paper Checks Create Delays

Mailing checks means waiting days for delivery, scheduling pickups, and hoping the subcontractor deposits it quickly. In contrast, secure electronic payments are instant, trackable, and less prone to being lost or delayed. You get a faster turnaround and cleaner financial records.

Construction Culture: Why Builders Still Use Paper

We understand that in the construction world, handing a subcontractor a paper check on-site often feels like the final seal of approval. It’s a tangible way to say, “Well done.” But Jon challenges builders to consider a new kind of payoff—one that’s faster, safer, and just as satisfying: an immediate electronic deposit sent from your phone.

Why Jon Won’t Be a Signer on Your Account

Even if we were to print checks for you, Jon would need to either be a signer on your bank account or use a rubber stamp of your signature. Neither is ideal—or secure. It places unnecessary risk and responsibility on your CPA, which isn't in your or our best interest.

The Better Path: Secure Electronic Payments

The real solution? Move away from paper checks entirely. The U.S. is one of the few countries still widely using them, despite how easily they can be forged. Electronic payments are safer, more trackable, and provide better dispute resolution options.

Instead of checks that sit in someone’s drawer for months, triggering future cash flow issues, immediate transfers ensure money is accounted for and received at the right time.

Not All Electronic Payment Platforms Are Equal

While electronic payments are the future, not every platform is ideal for business.

• Avoid: Zelle and Venmo — They lack solid dispute resolution and aren't always designed for business use.

• Do: Choose one consistent and secure platform—like QuickBooks Payments or Bill.com—and stick with it.

Using too many different systems leads to confusion and inefficiency. One trusted method ensures reliability and better record-keeping.

Final Thoughts

So—can your Builder CPA print and mail checks? Sure. But should they? Probably not. A better approach is to adopt secure, consistent electronic payment methods that work for you, your subcontractors, and your bottom line.

Make the shift now, and you’ll save time, reduce fraud risk, and streamline your entire payment process.

For more insights on financial best practices for builders, stay tuned with Jon Markee, your Builder CPA.