You've probably heard stories of people giving cashiers checks with a picture of that pointy-eared Vulcan Spock on them and actually getting away with it. Actually, it's perfectly legal to personalize your checks with practically any image on the front. How does this work? And are you now tempted to put a picture of Princess Leia on your personal checks just because you live in a free country?

Personalized Bank Checks

Not every checkbook has to have boring yellow or white colored paper – even your own bank might offer some cute designs such as American flags or mountain scenery. However, many online companies offer unique personal check book designs, beyond the ordinary, and limited to only your own imagination. While some companies offer personalized checks of cartoon characters or famous movie stars, others even offer more personalization. You can use your own photographs on the check or request a company to include a picture of popular character or celebrity.

How to Purchase Personal Checks

This process is legal, which first involves communication between the online company and your financial institution. The company may request an actual voided check, or they simply require the check numbers for further communication. These numbers include the routing number, which is the bank's number, consisting of nine digits. It is usually found to the far left. The next number that will be required is the checking account number, which sometimes begins with some zeros, though often times individual checks will leave the zeros off. Then there is the check sequence number, which is needed in tracking which checks you have already written.

After the company and bank communicates this information, then new checks will be delivered to you or you may even be able to print your own checks, if you meet the requirements and have the right software. If you choose your own image, there are usually no legal ramifications, as its unlikely Disney is going to track you down and sue you for using a picture of Mickey Mouse. (Unless you try and pay with a check at Disney world?) On the other hand, companies who use copyrighted characters will be careful to only use images that they have rights to, or that have been supplied by customers.

A personal check is a great way to express your individuality and add some color to your life.