How Do You Fill Out a Counter Check?

Counter checks offer a temporary solution when you need to make a payment or withdraw funds but do not have your personalized checks readily available. These blank checks are provided directly by your bank, typically at a branch. They are useful if you have just opened a new account or have simply run out of your existing supply. Unlike standard personal checks, counter checks usually lack pre-printed details such as your name, address, or a sequential check number, requiring you to manually add this information.

Understanding the Components of a Counter Check

At the top right, a designated line is provided for the current date. The “Pay to the Order of” line is where the full, legal name of the individual or entity receiving the payment must be precisely written. To the right of the payee line, a small box is reserved for the numerical amount of the payment. Below the numerical amount box, a longer line requires the amount to be spelled out in words, which must match the numerical figure.

An optional memo line, usually located in the bottom left, allows you to briefly note the purpose of the payment. The signature line at the bottom right is where the account holder must sign. Pre-printed at the bottom of the check are the bank’s routing number and your account number.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing a Counter Check

Filling out a counter check accurately involves a precise sequence of steps. Begin by writing the current date in the upper right-hand corner of the check, using a standard format like MM/DD/YYYY. Next, clearly print the full and correct legal name of the person or organization who will receive the funds on the “Pay to the Order of” line.

Immediately following, write the exact numerical amount of the payment in the small box provided to the right of the payee line. On the line below the payee’s name, spell out the payment amount in words. For example, “One Hundred and 00/100 Dollars.”

You may then use the memo line in the lower-left corner to add a brief, clear description of the payment’s purpose. Finally, sign your name legibly on the signature line. This signature must match the one your bank has on file.

Important Considerations When Using a Counter Check

Banks often require valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, when you request a counter check or when attempting to cash or deposit one. Counter checks are intended for temporary use and should not be viewed as a permanent replacement for a standard checkbook.

These checks typically do not have a pre-printed check number, making it challenging to track and reconcile them within your financial records. It is advisable to manually assign a number and record the transaction details to maintain an accurate account of your spending.

Additionally, some merchants or individuals may be hesitant to accept counter checks due to their temporary nature and lack of personalized information. Be aware that some banks may charge a small fee for issuing counter checks.