Why This Old-School Payment Method Still Dominates Small Business - and How It Gives Owners an Edge

"According to a 2024 study from the Atlanta Federal Reserve, as much as 83% of small firms - those with up to $10 million in annual revenues - use paper checks. Another study by an outside payment processing firm found similar (75%) results."

"Many business owners don't have the internal resources to implement such a project. Others don't want to rock the boat with their suppliers."

"The majority of small businesses are run by older business owners - those over the age of 50 - that are not only set in their ways but not anxious to turn things upside down."

In 2026, a significant number of small business owners continue to use paper checks for payments. Research indicates that 83% of small firms with revenues up to $10 million utilize checks. Many business owners prefer this method due to the costs and disruptions associated with transitioning to electronic payments. Additionally, the demographic of older business owners, who are less inclined to change established practices, contributes to the persistence of paper checks in business transactions.

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