Key takeout
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Write a check requires accuracy. Please clearly fill in all fields to avoid payment delays or processing issues
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Include important information about your check, such as dates, recipient names, number and word amounts, notes, and signatures.
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Always write with a blue or black pen before sending and double check the details. Track check numbers and amounts to maintain accurate financial records.
These days it’s easy to swipe a card or send money electronically. However, checking is essential in many situations. Whether you pay rent, send gifts, or treat your bill, knowing how to write your check properly can save you from a headache on the road. Make a mistake and you can face delays, late fees, or bouncing check fees.
Before you fill out your next check, use this simple step-by-step guide to make sure you’re correct for the first time.
Oddphoto/Getty Images;Illustrated by Bankrate
How to fill out a check
Before you write a check, you need a checking account with enough funds to cover the amount of your check. Then, follow these steps to fill out one:
1. Check date
Write the current date in the line in the top right corner. This is communicated to the financial institution and the recipient when you write the check. You can write the date in a long format or use numbers. Either “1/11/2025” or “January 11, 2025” works fine.
About tips: Pay attention to the zip code check (write future dates). Some banks will process them immediately, regardless of the date you wrote them.
For more information, see our guide on how to avoid bouncing your check.
2. Write the recipient’s name
Under the “Pay for Order” line, write down the full name of the person or company you are paying for. This individual or entity is called the recipient. To avoid confusion, use a complete legal name, not a nickname.
If you don’t know the exact name, you can write “cash”, but please note that anyone can cash or deposit checks made in cash. This makes it less secure than writing a specific name.
3. Write the check amount in numerical format
Write the numerical amount clearly in the small box to the right of the recipient’s line. For example, if you’re writing a check for $100 and 30 cents, write “$100.30”.
Make sure handwriting is easy to read. Unknown numbers can cause your bank to refuse payments or process the wrong amount.
4. Write the check price in words
In the lower line “Pay to order,” below, write down the amount of dollars in words. This amount must match exactly with the numerical quantity. Write cents as fractions above 100.
example:
- $100.30 is “100/100”
- $50.00 will be “50 and 00/100”
- $1,250.75 is “1,000255/100”
Even if you are writing a check for a round dollar amount, include “00/100” in the cent section to prevent changes.
5. Write a note
Note lines are optional, but it’s wise to use them. This section can serve as a reminder for the purpose of the check and assist in record keeping. For example, you could write “Rent – January 2025” or “Wedding Gifts.”
Some companies request certain information on a memo line, such as an account number or invoice number. This will ensure that payments are applied correctly.
6. Sign the check
Sign your name clearly on the line in the lower right corner of the check. Use the same signature that you have in your bank. Inappropriate signatures can cause delays in processing.
Your signature allows the bank to pay the amount specified to the recipient. Otherwise, the check is invalid.
Additional Tips for Writing a Check
Follow these best practices to ensure your checks are processed smoothly and safely.
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Use the right tools: Always write with a pencil or a black pen, and never a pencil. You can erase and change the pencil marks, making the checks vulnerable to fraud.
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Written easily: Clarifying handwriting prevents confusion and processing errors. If your writing is difficult to read, consider printing with block characters.
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Reconfirm everything: Please check all information before signing. Make sure the number amount matches the amount you write and you spelled the recipient’s name correctly.
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Please fill in all spaces: Draw a line in a blank space so that someone doesn’t add any information later. For example, if you write “50 and 00/100”, then draw a line after “100” and fill in the remaining space.
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Keep a detailed record: Write down your check number, amount, recipient and date in your check register or use the tracking app. This will help you balance your checkbook and provide paper trails for tax purposes.
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The storage check is safe: Unused checks should be stored in a safe place and should not be placed in a car or other unsecured location.
How to balance your checkbook
Balancing your checkbook means tracking your spending and matching your bank records. This practice helps avoid overdraft fees and catch errors early.
To keep track of your checking account balance, write down your check, deposit, ATM withdrawals and debit card purchases in the Budget or Budget app.
Once you receive a statement, check the records against your bank records. Look for inconsistencies such as missed transactions, bank charges, processing errors, and more. Subtract written checks that have not yet been cleared and add unprocessed deposits to get the true balance available.
For a detailed guide to maintaining accurate records, see Why balance your checking account.
Check FAQ
Can I write a check myself?
Yes, you can transfer money between accounts or write a check to yourself to earn cash. If you write your name on the “Pay for Order” line, you can deposit it in a different account or cash it out at the bank. Make sure you have enough funds in the account you are drawing.
What is a postponed check?
The check for your postal code has a future date. It is usually used when waiting before cashing in to the recipient. However, banks do not need to respect the date. We may process your check immediately if presented. If you need to delay your payment, consider using online invoice payments or setting up automatic payments instead.
If I make a mistake, how can I disable the check?
If you make an error while writing a check, write “void” in large letters on the front to make sure it covers the signature line and quantity fields. Keep invalid checks on the record and start over with a new check. Don’t try to correct mistakes with whiteouts or crossouts.
Next steps: Are you ready to open a checking account or switch to an account with better features? Compare the best checking accounts from Bankrate and find the right one that suits your needs.