How Do You Write a Check?

It's important to correctly fill out your personal checks, otherwise it could lead to errors in your account.

Writing a check correctly can mean the different from having your payment processed and having it rejected. Personal checks issued by U.S. banks follow the same basic format, making it easier to master the art of writing a check.

Things You'll Need

• Pen (blue or black)

Instructions

1. Note the check number. This number is typically found at the top right corner of the check. Banks issue personal checks in numerical order. If you notice a gap in your check numbers, look over your register to see if you simply forgot about writing a previous check, or whether you've misplaced one.

2. Fill out the date, using month, day and year: for example, March 4, 2011. This is the topmost line on a personal check, located below the check's number on the upper right side of the check. Use today's date, as postdating checks -- the practice of using a date that is still in the future -- can be confusing for those receiving the check as well as financial institutions processing them.

3. Write out the name of the business, organization or individual to whom the money is owed. This is the long line located near the center of the check, with the words "Pay To The Order Of" on the left side of the line. You can print the name or write it in script. If you are making the check out to yourself, write your own name on this line; writing "cash" can make it possible for anyone in possession of the check to cash it.

4. Write the amount of money owed in the box next to the payee line. The check's template will typically include a "$" sign, meaning you'll only have to fill in the numbers. Be sure to note dollars and cents: for example, write 150.00 instead of 150.

5. Use the long line below the payee line to write out the amount of money owed in words. For example, "150.00" becomes "One hundred fifty dollars and 00/100." You may choose to draw a straight line after the fraction representing the cents; this keeps other individuals from tampering with your check and adding more money to the amount due.

6. Sign your name on the line located at the bottom right side of the check. Failure to sign your check will prevent the payee from being able to cash it. The signature on the check must belong to one of the account's holders; the names of all account holders are listed in the upper left corner of the check.

7. Add information about the check to the "Memo" line, located in the bottom left corner of the check. Sometimes called "Notes," this line can be used as a reminder to the payee or to you. For example, if the check is used for paying a utility bill, you could write "November utility bill" on the memo line. This is an optional step, and does not need to be completed in order for the check to be processed.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a record of the checks you've written inside your check register. This small booklet -- usually the size of a standard check -- gives you space to note to whom a check was made out, how much it was and the date it was written.

• Double check the information on your check before giving it to the payee. Any errors on the check are your responsibility, and could prevent timely processing of the check.

References

• Check Advantage: How To Fill Out A Check
• The Beehive: How To Write A Personal Check

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish