Abstract: A system and method is provided for entering data from a marked card into a central processing unit and for producing a receipt on which is displayed the entered data in alpha-numeric characters and a unique transaction code in machine readable form. The system utilizes a plurality of dispersed card reader-printers, each with data storage and processing capabilities, in communication with a local terminal on a sequential polling basis. The local terminal is, in turn, in communication with the central processing unit which stores the data read from the cards and assigns the transaction code to it. The system allows the data stored in the CPU to be verified against that read by the card reader-printer and allows the printed transaction code to be verified against that assigned by the central processing unit.