# Managing Check Formats & Bank Mapping
### Abstract
In *Advanced Check Printing*, each check format must be mapped directly to a general ledger GL account and a bank account in a one-to-one relationship. This mapping ensures that the correct check layout and bank information are applied consistently during check printing. For example, an organization with separate *U.S.* and *Canadian* bank accounts may require distinct check templates to meet formatting standards in each country.
This article explains how to access and configure check formats linked to GL and bank accounts.
### **Managing Check Formats and Bank Mapping**
Check formats define how printed checks are structured and are directly linked to specific GL and bank accounts. These configurations support formatting requirements across different banking institutions, helping ensure compliance with layout standards such as regional date formats or custom templates.
Follow these steps to access and review check format configurations:
1. To navigate to **Check Formats**, hover over the **Setup** menu, go to **Check Printing**, and select the **Check Formats** option, which will take you to the **CPB Check Format List** page:\
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This page contains half of the check printing configuration, specifically where the bank-related information is managed.\
2. To view a specific check, click the **View** button next to the entry, which will take you to the **CPB Check Format** page:\
3. At the top of this page, you’ll find the **Check Name**. The number in the name (e.g., 1338) represents the last four digits of the related bank account:\
4. Each check format is tied to a specific GL account. This forms a one-to-one relationship between a check format, a GL account, and a bank account — meaning they cannot be shared or mixed:\
5. In this view, you must also select a **CHECK TEMPLATE** for the check format. This ensures that each bank can use a layout that meets its requirements:\
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For example, if a customer has both **U.S.** and **Canadian** banks, they may need different check templates. This is because **Canadian** banks require a different date format than **U.S.** banks, making a separate template necessary.\
This concludes the overview of managing check formats and bank mapping.
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