How to Write a Check

How to Write a Check

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Checks are less common than they used to be, but they haven’t disappeared. Rent payments, contractor work, gifts, and some government transactions still rely on them. If you’ve never written one — or haven’t in years — here’s everything you need to know.

Parts of a check

Before you fill one out, it helps to know what’s on a check:

  • Date field — top right corner
  • Pay to the Order of — the payee line; who receives the money
  • Dollar box — the amount in numbers, on the right
  • Written amount line — the amount spelled out in words
  • Memo line — bottom left; optional note about what the payment is for
  • Signature line — bottom right; your authorization
  • Numbers at the bottom — routing number, account number, check number (more on these below)

How to fill out a check

Work through the fields in order. Use blue or black ink — not pencil, not red, not felt-tip.

  1. Write the date. Use the current date in the top right corner. Include month, day, and year. Postdating a check (writing a future date) is legal but unreliable — most banks will cash it whenever it arrives.
  2. Write the payee’s name. On the “Pay to the Order of” line, write the full name of the person or business receiving payment. Be exact — if you’re paying a business, use the name on their account, not a nickname.
  3. Write the amount in numbers. In the box on the right, write the dollar amount — for example, $125.75. Start as far left in the box as possible to prevent anyone from adding digits in front.
  4. Write the amount in words. On the line below the payee, write the dollar amount spelled out, followed by the cents as a fraction: One hundred twenty-five and 75/100. Draw a line through any remaining blank space on that line to prevent alterations. If the amount is a round number, write “and 00/100” or “and no cents.”
  5. Fill in the memo line (optional). A note like “July rent” or your account number helps both parties keep records. It has no legal effect on the check.
  6. Sign the check. Your signature on the bottom right line is what authorizes the payment. Without it, the check is invalid. Use the same signature your bank has on file.

One rule: don’t sign a check until you’re ready to hand it over or mail it. A signed blank check can be filled in by anyone who finds it.

Understanding the numbers at the bottom of a check

The string of numbers printed along the bottom of every check isn’t random. Each set has a specific purpose.

Routing number

The first nine digits on the left are the routing number — sometimes called the ABA routing number. It identifies your bank. Every bank has its own unique routing number, and it’s the same for all accounts at that bank.

You’ll need your routing number when setting up direct deposit, paying bills online, or wiring money. It tells the payment system which financial institution to send funds to or pull them from.

Account number

The next set of digits — usually 10 to 12 numbers — is your account number. This is unique to your specific account at that bank. While the routing number identifies your bank, the account number identifies you within it.

You’ll provide both your routing number and account number when setting up direct deposit or ACH payments. Keep these digits private — together they can be used to initiate transfers.

Check number

The shortest number at the bottom — also printed in the top right corner of the check — is the check number. It’s a sequential reference that helps you track which checks you’ve written in your check register.

How to void a check

If you make a mistake while filling out a check, or if someone asks for a voided check to set up direct deposit, voiding is simple.

  1. Use a blue or black pen — not pencil.
  2. Write “VOID” in large letters across the front of the check. Cover the payee line, dollar box, and signature area.
  3. Be careful not to obscure the routing and account numbers at the bottom — those are still needed if the check is being used for direct deposit setup.
  4. Keep a copy or photograph of the voided check for your records.

Never destroy a check you’re sending somewhere for direct deposit setup — the recipient needs the physical (or photographed) voided check to capture your banking numbers.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Using pencil or the wrong ink color — banks can reject checks written in pencil
  • Leaving gaps at the start of the dollar box or written amount line — creates room for fraud
  • Writing a number that doesn’t match the spelled-out amount — banks typically honor the written words; make sure they match
  • Signing before you’re ready to hand it over
  • Forgetting to record the check in your register — checks can take days to clear and can overdraw an account if you forget
  • Postdating a check expecting the bank to wait — most banks will process it on arrival

Further Reading

This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Banking practices may vary by institution — check with your bank for specific policies.

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