How to Write a Check in 6 Easy Steps
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Want to learn how to write a check? I’ve got you covered. There are several reasons why you may need to write a check. For instance, some businesses will give you a discount for writing a check instead of swiping a card.
So, if you are going to write a check, making sure you are doing it correctly is key if you don’t want to have a hassle. To help you with this, here are six simple steps to write a check correctly.
How to Write a Check
First, notice that the check has numbered fields. Throughout this tutorial, we will discuss each numbered field and its purpose so that you can use the proper check format.
1. Date the check in the top right corner
Any format of date is acceptable, such as June 1, 2024, or 6/1/2024. However, consistency is key as it helps you more easily recognize a check that may have been stolen from your account.
For instance, if you always date your checks in this format: June 2, 2024, a forged check will easily be identified if the check date is written in a different format.
2. Write the name of the person you are paying
In the “pay to the order of” field, write down to whom the check is made payable. In the case of this tutorial, that would be Target.
It is important to write neatly when you write a check and to include the payee’s first and last name or the entire business name (the person or business to whom the check is being written).
3. Write the amount that you wish to pay in numbers
Again, it’s important to be neat and precise here. Make a clear distinction between dollars and cents with a decimal point or underline the cents number to avoid confusion about the designated amount.
This confirms the amount in written form so that there is no confusion about how much should be paid. In this example, it would be $20.21.
4. Write the dollar amount using words
Neatness counts here as well because banks will occasionally double-check the written amount if they cannot read the numbers in the amount box.
Write out the dollar amount of the check clearly, as shown in the box below. For this check example, it would be Twenty and 21/100. You do not need to put dollars after the word twenty because it is already listed on the line.
5. Fill in the For / Memo field on the bottom left
People don’t often use the For line when writing a check, but it can be important regarding a potential payment dispute. Note: Some banks will use “Memo” or “For” in this field.
When paying a bill, I suggest writing the account number in the For line. For example, if the check is for paying rent, write “June 2024 rent” in the For line. Using the For line when writing a check helps secure your checking account and protect you against possible payment disputes.
It can also help you track your spending so you know how much money you’re spending in each budget area. In this example, it would be Clothing.
6. Sign the check in the bottom right
This is possibly the most vital part of the check-writing process. Companies won’t accept checks without a valid signature. Since each person’s signature is unique, the signature on your check has the capability of protecting you from potential check-writing forgers.
When writing a check, make your signature neat and write it like any other formal document. See the “Your signature goes here” box in the example below.
Your check should look similar to this when it is completed:
There are three more pieces of information you should be aware of regarding the format of a check.
Routing number
This is specific to your banking institution and is on the bottom left of the check. It is also used when you give your employer information to receive direct deposit and set up automatic payments.
Account number
This is self-explanatory; however, just know that you can find this number directly to the right of your routing number.
Check number
Your checkbook is set up in a numerical sequence, so if you write a lot of checks over the years, it is easier to confirm payments and check disputes.
FAQs on Writing Checks
Only write checks with a pen, preferably blue or black ink. Although you can write checks in pencil, anybody with an eraser can erase all the information to change the dollar amount and the recipient’s name.
People typically post-date a check when they know there are insufficient funds in the account to cover it. They are waiting for a deposit so the check will not bounce.
Two fields make it absolutely clear what the check’s amount is supposed to be. Writing the amount twice also helps eliminate fraud and debiting the incorrect amount from one’s account.
Now that you know the basics of writing a check, you are prepared for situations when other payment options, such as cash or automatic payment, are unavailable.
Yes, you can write a check to yourself to cash it out. In the “Pay to the order of” field, you can write your name or write the word “Cash.”
You will also need to sign the back of the check as if you were depositing it into your checking account.
Just like you write a check in pen, use a pen to write “VOID” on the front of the check. Each person does it slightly differently, as you might prefer to write the word once in giant letters or each of the five fields.
Side note: you also may be able to cash a check online as well by depositing through the app of your bank.
How to Write a Check – Summary
Writing a check might feel like a “lost art,” but it’s still an essential skill to know. We don’t pay for everything with plastic or a digital wallet yet, and many businesses prefer a check to cash for large purchases because it’s more secure.
Now that you know how to write a check correctly, you don’t have to worry about having to rewrite your check or getting charged those pesky returned check fees.
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