How Do I Make Out a Check for Cash?

A check functions as a written order to a bank, instructing it to pay a specified amount of money from your account to a designated recipient. While checks typically name a specific individual or entity as the payee, they can also be made payable to “Cash.” This method is often used when a person needs physical currency from their own account without having an ATM readily available, or when providing cash to someone who does not possess a bank account.

Writing a Check for Cash

When preparing a check for cash, begin by filling in the current date on the line located in the top right-hand corner. On the “Pay to the Order of” line, clearly write “Cash.” This specific instruction indicates the check is payable to the bearer, meaning anyone in possession of it can potentially cash it.

Next, enter the numerical amount in the small box provided, typically to the right of the payee line (e.g., “100.00”). Below the payee line, write out the full dollar amount in words, ensuring it matches the numerical value (e.g., “One hundred and 00/100 dollars”). Drawing a line after the written amount helps prevent unauthorized alterations.

The memo line, though optional, can be used for personal record-keeping, such as “personal withdrawal” or “for expenses.” Finally, sign the check on the signature line at the bottom right, using the name that matches your bank records.

Cashing a Check Made Out to Cash

Cashing a check made out to “Cash” can be done at the issuing bank, your own bank, or third-party check-cashing services. The issuing bank may be more willing to process it, even for non-customers. However, banks are not obligated to cash checks for non-customers and may charge a fee, ranging from a flat fee (e.g., $8) to a percentage of the check amount (around 1% to 2.5%).

Regardless of where you cash the check, you will need to present a valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. Some institutions may also request a secondary ID or your Social Security Number for verification. Before handing over the check, endorse it by signing your name on the back, usually on the designated line. This confirms your authorization to cash the check and receive the funds.

Safety and Security Tips

Writing a check to “Cash” carries an inherent risk because it becomes a bearer instrument. If a check made out to “Cash” is lost or stolen, an unauthorized individual could cash it, making it difficult to recover funds. Unlike checks made out to a specific person, there is no named payee to verify, which reduces transaction security.

To mitigate this risk, consider safer alternatives such as writing the check to yourself and depositing it, using digital payment methods, or making an ATM withdrawal. If you must write a check to “Cash,” cash it immediately after writing it. Keep the check in a secure location until it can be cashed to prevent loss or theft. Maintaining detailed records in your check register, including the memo line entry, helps track the transaction.