In the age of digital everything, it might surprise you that checks still play a major role in B2B transactions. In fact, 68% of businesses still use paper checks, and while the number of checks has declined, businesses continue to rely on them for large payments. In 2024, the total value of U.S. commercial checks processed reached $8.17 trillion.
So, what’s keeping checks alive in the digital era? And how can you harness their power?
1. Checks carry trust
In industries like healthcare, property management, legal, and government, checks provide a level of familiarity, control, and auditability that’s hard to replicate with other payment types. Checks are tangible, traceable, and still widely accepted—making them a safe and dependable choice when it comes to high-value transactions.
2. Businesses still rely on them
Business checks now account for nearly 50% of all U.S. checks, up significantly from a decade ago when consumer checks dominated. The shift in usage reflects how checks have become a mainstay of B2B transactions. While digital payments continue to rise, many organizations still prefer the familiarity and control offered by paper checks.
3. Modernization doesn’t mean elimination
Today’s businesses don’t have to abandon checks to modernize. With Remote Deposit Capture (RDC), companies can digitize the process of receiving and depositing checks without requiring customers or partners to adopt new systems. RDC enables faster deposits, fewer bank trips, and real-time visibility into cash flow.
4. Security and audit trails matter
Checks continue to offer a unique advantage over some digital alternatives: clear, transparent audit trails. Unlike ACH conversions that might confuse senders or obscure transaction details, checks maintain a familiar record. RDC allows businesses to retain that visibility while gaining the speed and convenience of digital tools.
At iStream, we’ve spent over 20 years modernizing check processing through RDC. Our solutions help businesses handle large volumes of checks efficiently and securely, without giving up the benefits of a payment method many still trust.
Checks are evolving, not disappearing. And with RDC, you don’t have to choose between old and new.
Contact us today to explore RDC solutions.