How to void a check

There are several reasons why you would void a check. If you are writing the check and you make an error that will cause the recipient a problem cashing or depositing it like you will want to void the check and start over again. Errors like writing the wrong date or wrong amount on the check would be a good reason to void it and write a new one. Another reason to void a check would be when an employer wants a voided check in order to deposit money in your account, or you have arranged with a membership based business like a gym or other club to automatically debit your account. Here are the steps to voiding a check.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Write void in the amount box on the check. This is the first place a teller would look to determine who much the check is written for. Seeing void written in the amount box would automatically inform the bank that the check is voided.

2. Write void across signature line: This helps prevent anyone to forge your signature on the check. Without an authorized signature, a check is useless, so writing the word void across the signature line will render the check useless as well and prevent forgery.

3. Write void across the center of the check in large letters. It is preferable to write the word void across the dollar amount where a bank teller would look to verify the number amount written on the check is correct.

4. Write void on back of the check: Even if the face on your voided check has been altered and forged, if you write void across the back of the check, you take one more step to ensure that the bank will not withdraw money from your account.

5. Make an entry in checkbook with voided check number: To keep track of your voided check, you should the check number in your checkbook along with the date and reason the check was voided.

6. Extra security: Using one or all of the methods above are sufficient for voiding a check. If you want to make sure a voided check you are handing over for business reasons won’t be mis-used, you can call the bank and put a stop payment on the check. The stop payment will be good for a period of six months. The bank will also charge you a fee.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to stop or void a check after you have given it to someone and then changed your mind you need to call the bank to arrange a Stop Payment.
• <br>If you want to make sure no one gets their hand on a voided check in your possession, you may want to shred it.