can i print checks in the current year if the prior year is still open

It's good to see you posting here in the Community forum, Pam1412.

Yes, you can print checks in the current year even if the prior year is still open in QuickBooks Online (QBO). And I'll be happy to guide you how.

1. In the left menu, select the + New button.
2. Select Print checks.
3. Choose the account that you created the check from the drop-down ▼.
4. In the Starting check no. field, enter the check number of the first check in the printer.
5. Select the checkbox next to each check you want to print.
6. Select Preview and print.
7. If everything is correct, select Print.
8. If your checks print correctly, select Done.

If your checks fail to print accurately, choose the some checks need reprinting option or the option to keep checks in the Print checks list. You might have to access the print setup and make adjustments to your alignment settings.

In case you need to check your financial data after printing your checks, you can visit our Financial Reports topic page. It contain guides on what reports you can run and how to customize it. 

If you have any specific questions or need further assistance with QuickBooks Online, feel free to ask!