A system for imaging checks is provided that includes an image capture host and a database. The image capture host is coupled to a sorter that is operable to sort a plurality of checks, to retrieve data from the checks and to record digital images of the checks. The image capture host is operable to obtain the digital images of the checks recorded by the sorter. The database is external to the sorter and is coupled to the image capture host. The database is operable to store the digital images of the checks obtained by the image capture host.