Can check scanner OCR read check amounts, dates, signatures, etc.?

The OCR capability that comes with check scanners cannot read check amounts, dates, signatures and so on.

There are vendors that offer software that can read this type of information from checks. Some of the companies that offer popular check reading software include A2iA (www.a2ia.com), Orbograph (www.orbograph.com), and Parascript (www.parascript.com).

The OCR supported by check scanners can only read lines of machine printed characters in specialized fonts designed specifically for OCR reading. For example, many payment coupons contain a line of machine printed characters. These lines often includes an account number, amount owned, the due date, and so on. Check scanner OCR can read this type of information provided that the particular check scanner's OCR engine supports the target font and the digits are printed clearly. Another common use of check scanner OCR is to read the MICR line optically as a quality check.

Please note that not every check scanner has OCR capability. Some manufacturers offer it with their check scanners and some do not.