How to Write a Check: Step-by-step processes on how you can write a check in a few minutes. With credit & debit cards, internet banking, and direct deposit being utilized, everyday check and paper checks, and Cashier’s Checks might not be as common as they were. Yet, they could still be helpful, even if they’re not required occasionally. If you have doubts about how to write a check and are wondering what you should fill in each field, refer to this guide.
Table of Content
What Is on a Check?
It’s crucial to be aware of the contents of a check before you fill it in for the first time. The name of the person who holds the account and address is located in the upper-left corner, and the check number will typically be located in the top or bottom-right corner of the check.
The routing number of the bank and account numbers are located in the lower-left corner. Knowing where to locate these numbers can aid you in recording the amount of money you pay into your balance book or your check register frequently. The reverse of a check is intended for endorsement purposes. It is typically used to deposit the check into your account.
Things to consider before making a check
Here are some essential general guidelines for writing an effective check. Apart from the above six steps, it is also important to take note of the following points:
- First, write in a neat, neat manner as you can.
- Printing is a better option than cursive whenever it is possible. This is to improve clarity. It is much easier for a person to understand print than reading script.
- If you commit an error, you must write “void” on the check and then use a new check.
- Check that spelling are accurate.
- Double-check to ensure you have the correct recipient and the correct value amount.
how to write a check to someone
A lot of us pay electronically nowadays. Sometimes we can write checks in physical form for payment to the business or individual. Here are the steps needed to make an actual check.
1. Input the date
Note the present day’s date on the line at the top of the right-hand corner. This will inform the financial institution and recipient of the exact date you made it. It is possible to write out the date entirely or include all numbers. For instance, 7/09/2022 or July 11, 2021.
2. Write in the payee’s name.
The line reads “pay to the order of,” and add your name and the address of the person or business you’d like to pay. The recipient’s full name should be used instead of an initial. If you’re writing a check out to a business, make sure you know the company’s name before you write it on the check.
If you aren’t sure of the exact spelling or the exact spelling, you can use”cash. “Cash.” However, this could be an extremely risky option since anyone can cash or put in the check made out in the name of “cash.”
3. Write the check amount in numbers
The check will include two areas that require you to indicate your payment amount. First, you must write the number of dollar amounts into the small box to the right to indicate the recipient’s name. For example, you can write $100.30. Suppose you want to send a check for 100 dollars, 30 cents. Be sure to write it clearly so the institution can deduct the exact value from your bank account.
4. Write the amount in words
The next step is to write down your dollar figure in terms that be able to match the number you wrote in the space below “pay to the order of.” Make sure to write the cent amount above 100. For instance, if you write $100.30 inside the envelope, compose “one hundred and 30/100.” If the check is for $100 or a different round number, you must not forget to include 00/100 to provide clarity. If you write the value in terms, you confirm the amount of money you paid.
5. Make a note of it.
The memo section on the check is not required. However, completing it’s still an excellent idea as it could help you remember why you wrote the check. For example, if you’re paying your hairdresser for a haircut, it could be a “haircut.” If the check is to pay a specific amount, include your bank account’s number in the memo section.
The company might ask you to record an invoice or account number in this area. This will allow them to apply the funds to your credit card.
6. Make sure you sign the check.
Your signature will appear on the line in the bottom right-hand corner of the check. Be sure to sign your name clearly and utilize the same signature recorded at your bank. Your signature will inform your bank you have agreed to pay the specified amount to the individual you have specified as the payee.
Security Tips for writing a check
Make the changes below to reduce the chance of your account being hacked by fraud.
- Use pen: Make it permanent by using a pen every time you write a check. If you are using an eraser, anyone who has an eraser may alter the amount of the check and who is paying.
- Don’t sign on a blank check. Do not make a payment until you’ve entered your name as the recipient along with the sum. Then, if you’re unsure who to pay the check to or how much something is, you can just take the pen. It’s less risky than giving someone access to your account.
- Keep checks from growing: when you fill in the dollar amount, make sure to print it in a way that blocks fraudsters from adding to it. Start at the left-most corner of the space, then draw a line in the middle of the final number. If, for instance, the check is $8.15, place an “8” as far to the left as you can. Next, draw an arc from the right end of the “5” to the end of the space. You can also write the numbers so that it’s difficult to include any number. If you don’t leave space, someone could add numbers, and your check could result in $98.15, which is $8159.
- If you’d like an official record of each written check, buy checkbooks with carbon copies. They come with extremely thin paper that contains the cheque you make. In turn, you will be able to quickly determine where your money went and precisely what you put on each check.
- Use the same signature: Most people cannot have a clear signature, and some may even sign credit card slips using humorous pictures. Consistently having the same signature will help your bank and you spot fraud. In addition, it’s easier to show that you aren’t in charge of charges if the signature isn’t in line.
- No “Cash”: Avoid making a check payable to cash. This is the same as carrying the check with a signature or cash. 3 If you require cash, withdraw from an ATM or buy gum, receive cash back with your debit card, or take cash from the bank.
- Make fewer checks: checks aren’t particularly dangerous, but there are better ways to pay for items. Using electronic payment doesn’t mean that paper will be lost or stolen. Checks are typically converted into an electronic payment which is why you’re not risking technology by using checks. Electronic payments are generally simpler to track since they’re already available in a searchable format that includes a time stamp as well as the names of the recipient. Utilize tools such as the bill pay online to pay for your monthly expenses, and then use your debit or credit card to pay for your everyday expenses.
How do you write a check to yourself?
If you’re writing a check for yourself, you’ll write the check-in the following: “Your name.” So when the name you have is “Random Person,” the check will be written to be paid to the account from “Random Person.”
Suppose you’ve identified yourself on the check (usually located in the lower left-hand corner). In that case, This signifies that your name appears twice in the signature on your check (three depending on your signature), and that’s acceptable. Some people ask whether it’s illegal to make a payment to yourself, but I can assure you that it’s completely legal.
How to Write a Void Check
1. Use and blank check in your checkbook connected with your bank account or to the account from which you wish to deposit funds.
2. Write “VOID” across the front of the check-in in large letters. You may also put “VOID” in smaller letters on the important parts of your check. It is required in writing “VOID” in the payment amount box, over the line for the payee, and in the signature area. Both methods are acceptable.
3. Make sure to cover most of your checks with “VOID,” but do not cover the check numbers at the end of your check. These numbers connect you to the bank account and will be required to establish an electronic connection.
4. Keep a record of your check voided inside your check register in the back of the checkbook. This will help you remember the reason for voiding the check when you are trying to check your balance.
Get Unlimited Graphic and Video Design Services on RemotePik, book your Free Trial
To keep yourself updated with the latest eCommerce and Amazon news, subscribe to our newsletter at www.cruxfinder.com
