The cash register (or till) is used to input the amount of money (be it a cash, cheque or card transaction) tendered by the customer. Conventional cash registers are usually key operated, and by selecting a certain setting you can adjust between:

• Operating the till for taking payments.
   
• Running an "X Report" - an interim report to check tallies.
   
• Running a "Z Report" - an end of session or end of day report.

Depending upon the technical capability of your cash register, it may be able to calculate change, print a receipt and differentiate between types of payment made. Some may be connected directly to your practice computer and simply consist of an electronic cash drawer (these devices are great since an itemised invoice or receipt can easily be generated at the time of the transaction).

The till should be well stocked with change, and kept in an organised manner. Different bank notes should be kept in segregated compartments to avoid making mistakes with change giving. Notes should be checked for authenticity with a special anti-fraud pen.

When taking receipt of cheques always check the following:

• That the signature on the cheque tallies with that of the card.
   
• That a guarantee card is given and that the number and expiry date are written on the reverse of the cheque.
   
• That the client's name and address are written on the reverse of the cheque in the absence of a guarantee card.
   
• That the client's name is written on the reverse of the cheque if this is different to that of the account holder.
   
• That the date, payee and amount are correct.
   
• Make sure you know where to locate paper rolls and ink cartridges and how to replace them.

If a large quantity of bank notes are taken, these should be put into the safe for security reasons. Never let it be known that large amounts of cash are on the premises. The amount of change left in the till ready for the next day's work is known as the "float".