Banking · Checks & Check Writing · HTML Lesson

How to Write a Check

An online lesson and video walking students step by step through writing a personal check — from the date and payee through the amount in words, memo, and signature. The lesson and video are free. An accompanying worksheet is available with Full Membership.

Grades 9–12 HTML Lesson 30–45 min Free Lesson Worksheet: Full Membership

What Students Learn

Learning objectives

How to write the correct date on a check and why the date matters for processing
How to write the payee name clearly and accurately so the check can be cashed or deposited without issues
How to write the payment amount in numerals in the designated dollar box
How to write the payment amount in words on the amount line — including cents expressed as a fraction
The purpose of the memo field and how it helps both parties track the reason for payment
Key tips: use blue or black ink, void checks with errors rather than crossing them out, and record every check in your check register

Video Lesson

Watch: How to Write a Check — Step-by-Step

For Teachers

How to use this lesson

Play the video, then have students practice writing checks using blank check templates. Work through the amount-in-words step slowly — writing cents as a fraction (e.g., 47/100) is where most errors occur. The lesson page includes step-by-step instructions, a completed check example, and a worksheet requiring Full Membership.

Practice activity: Give each student 3 scenario cards (a rent payment, a gift to a friend, a utility bill) and have them write a check for each. Swap papers and check each other’s work against the lesson criteria. Discussion: What happens if the numerical amount and written amount don’t match?

Best positioned after students understand what a checking account and a check are, and before lessons on the check register. Works in financial literacy, life skills, and consumer math classes — and particularly valuable in adult education settings.

Mixed Access