What is the difference between a substitute check and an IRD (Image Replacement Document)?
A substitute check is defined in the Act (see question above). An Image Replacement Document (IRD) is the name that the ANS X9.90 standard uses for the substitute check. An IRD by definition in the ANS X9.90 standard will always be a substitute check. Under both the Act and the ANS standard, a substitute check (and IRD) must contain an image of the front and back of the original paper check; must bear a MICR line containing all information from the original paper check (except as required by industry standards to facilitate processing); must conform with other industry standards; and must be suitable for automated processing.
