Abstract: A system and method for selective printing of documents in low toner or ink situations includes a processor, a memory and an input configured for receiving an electronic print job. A current level of toner or ink is measured and this information, together with data specifying an amount of toner or ink needed to render printed images and information from the print job itself, is used to calculate toner or ink required to complete a printing of the print job. The processor generates a user prompt when there is an insufficient amount of toner or ink to complete the printing of the print job.