How to Write a Check



Sometimes, writing a check is the way to go. But while you may have seen your parents do it many times, you might not know exactly how to fill one out. Read these instructions and you'll have no trouble signing your money away.

Steps   [edit]

  1. Write the date on the line in the upper right hand corner.
  2. Write who the check is for on the line that says "Pay to the Order of".
  3. Write the amount of the check in number form in the box on the right next to the "Pay to the Order of"
  4. Write the amount of the check in word form on the line under the "Pay to the Order of" line.
  5. Sign the check on the line in the bottom right-hand corner.
  6. Write what the check is for or a nice short note on the line in the bottom left-hand corner where it says "Memo" (optional).


Tips   [edit]

  • Always use pen. Gel pens actually work best because ink removing liquids do not work as well with the gel.
  • Always sign your name the same way.
  • When you write the amount of the check in the little box, make sure you write it as close to the dollar sign as possible. Forgers will try to sneak in an extra digit.
  • Always draw a line if there is still space after you write your amount in word form. This will prevent someone writing in an additional few zeros.
  • Always make sure you use the correct date. If you don't know the date, guess an earlier one. It is actually illegal to put a date in the future on your check.
  • Always balance your checkbook as soon as possible after your monthly bank statement arrives. This will help prevent accidental overdrafts ("bounced checks"). To balance, record the check number in the register, along with the person or company paid, and the amount.
  • Deduct the amount of the check from your balance.