How to Make a Sample Paycheck

Sample paychecks may be used for various reasons, including the establishment of direct deposit.

Sample paychecks can be used to order new checks or to establish direct deposit at your employee's financial institution. Sample paychecks prevent waste, so make several copies and safeguard them for later use.

Things You'll Need

• Blank checks
• Paycheck template
• Computer
• Printer

Instructions

1. Obtain blank checks from a local office supply retailer such as OfficeMax, Office Depot or Staples. There are several colors to choose from as well as quantities. The price will vary according to the features of the checks, such as the size and design.

2. Download software that provides a template for making the sample paycheck. Microsoft, QuickBooks and Payroll.com all offer paycheck templates that are free of charge or require a nominal fee.

3. Locate your financial institution's routing number and your bank account number. Place the nine-digit routing number at the bottom of the check on the far left followed by the account number; separate them with one to three spaces.

4. Type the name of your business and address in the top, left-hand corner. The business telephone number is optional.

5. Type the check number in the top, right-hand corner of the check. Add a space for the date directly below the check number.

6. Type "Pay To" midway down the left-hand side of the check and leave ample space for the name of the payee.

7. Designate the area to the right of the payee line for the numerical amount of the check. This exact amount must be expressed in words directly below the payee line. In the event of a discrepancy, the written amount will be presumed accurate and the check will be paid according to the amount that is written in words.

8. Designate a signature line at the bottom, right-hand corner of the check. No check is considered legal tender without the signature of an owner or authorized used of the account.

9. Type the name of the financial institution and its city and state of operation that holds the account.

10. Type or write "void" across the sample check so that it may not be cashed or used to make a purchase.

Tips & Warnings

• Some paycheck template software companies offer free trials to allow you to test the product's features.

• Keep blank checks safeguarded and out of sight of wandering eyes. Locking them in a safe-box to which only you have the key will prevent thievery.

References

• Microsoft Office: Templates
• Entrepreneur: Payroll Software Reviews

Resources

• Business Forms