A method for communicating between a check processing system and a non-compatible check sorter is provided that includes accessing a MICR buffer for the check sorter. The MICR buffer comprises MICR data retrieved from a check. A process buffer is generated based on the MICR buffer. The process buffer is standardized for a plurality of disparate types of check sorters. A plurality of feature instructions are received for the check based on the process buffer. The feature instructions are communicated to the check sorter for processing of the check.