How to Write a Personal Check

Opening a checking account for the first time is a wonderful milestone, as it signifies growing independence. Once you receive that fresh pack of new checks with your name on them, make sure you know how to correctly fill out the checks so as not to waste them needlessly.

Writing a personal check is a quick and easy process once you have been made aware of the few simple steps it takes to properly fill out the necessary information.

Things You'll Need

• Check book
• Blue or black pen
• Personal checks

Instructions

1. Write the date in the upper right-hand corner of the check. It is very important to always write the date as this can be used help banks track your account transactions, and also help you keep track of transactions within your checkbook log.

2. Write the name of the person or business you are writing the personal check to on the first line of the check. Usually, this line is indicated by "pay to the order of" written on the left.

3. Note the numerical amount for the check in the box marked with the dollar sign, found to the right of the line on which you just wrote the name of the check payee. Be sure to include the full monetary amount, including the cent value. For example, even if the amount is an even $100, write it in the box as "$100.00."

4. Write out the amount of the check in words on the second line below the payee name, followed by the word "and," then the cent amount written as a fraction of 100. If there is no cent amount, write two "x's" over 100. For example, $100 written out in words would read, "One-hundred dollars and xx/100."

5. Specify what the check is being written for in the lower left-hand corner of the check next to the word "For." This space does not always have to be filled, but it is wise to do so in order to keep an accurate record of check transactions. Examples of check descriptions to be placed in this space include "February rent payment" or "groceries."

6. Sign the check in the lower right-hand corner. Always sign the check, as the check is not valid without your signature. In addition, you run the risk of someone else signing the check and using it for some other purpose.

Tips & Warnings

• Banks often start a new checking account holder off with "starter checks," which are typically numbered below 300. While usually not a problem, some establishments may not accept a starter check, so always ask first before opting to use this payment method.

• Try to avoid making checks out to "cash." While convenient for accessing quick cash, these checks can easily be forged if lost and recovered by a third party. Immediately stop payment on this or any type of check you have lost by calling your bank and requesting a stop-payment for a particular check number. Banks often charge for stop-payments on checks. Try to avoid stopping payments on checks by filling them out properly every time.