| Document and Entity Information Document | Feb. 06, 2020 |
| Cover page. | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 6, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | DELUXE CORPORATION |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000027996 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MN |
| Entity File Number | 1-7945 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 41-0216800 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3680 Victoria St. N. |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Shoreview |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MN |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 55126-2966 |
| City Area Code | 651 |
| Local Phone Number | 483-7111 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, par value $1.00 per share |
| Trading Symbol | DLX |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
