How Do You Make a Voided Check?
Learn the simple steps to void a check correctly. Understand why and when you need to void a check for secure financial setups.
A voided check is a paper check intentionally marked to prevent its use for payment. Its primary purpose is to provide essential bank account information, such as routing and account numbers, without the risk of the check being cashed or deposited. Voiding a check creates a secure document for sharing banking coordinates.
Steps to Void a Check
Begin with a blank check from your checkbook. Use a pen with permanent blue or black ink to ensure clear, permanent markings. Write “VOID” in large, capital letters across the entire front of the check. This prominent marking signals that the check is invalid for payment.
Also write “VOID” in smaller letters over key areas: the payee line, the amount box and line, and the signature line. This adds security, making it difficult to fraudulently fill in or modify the check.
Ensure the magnetic ink character recognition (MICR) line at the bottom remains readable. This line contains your bank’s routing and account numbers, which organizations need. Obscuring these numbers defeats the purpose. Always ensure the check number is also visible, as it helps with record-keeping.
Common Reasons for a Voided Check
Organizations frequently request a voided check to obtain your banking details for electronic transactions. One common scenario involves setting up direct deposit for payroll, allowing employers to transfer earnings directly into your bank account. The voided check provides routing and account numbers, minimizing manual entry errors that could delay payments.
Another use is for automatic bill payments or electronic fund transfers (EFTs). Companies like utility providers or loan servicers may require a voided check to ensure correct withdrawals. This verifies account information and prevents misdirected payments. Voided checks also link external bank accounts for transfers between your own financial institutions.
Occasionally, a check may be voided due to preparation mistakes, like an incorrect payee or amount. Voiding it ensures it cannot be accidentally used or fall into the wrong hands. This protects your financial information and maintains the integrity of your check register.
What to Do After Voiding a Check
Once a check has been voided, you will submit it to the requesting party. This submission might involve mailing the physical check, scanning it for email, or uploading it through an online portal. Always confirm the preferred submission method with the entity requesting the check.
Maintaining a record of the voided check is a good financial practice. You should note the check number and the reason for voiding it in your personal check register or financial records. Making a photocopy or taking a digital image of the voided check before submission provides a personal reference and proof of what was provided.
For security, treat a voided check with the same care as a blank one, as it still contains sensitive bank account information. Only provide it to trusted organizations and avoid sharing photos of voided checks unnecessarily. If the physical voided check is no longer needed after submission, it should be securely disposed of, such as by shredding, to prevent potential misuse of your banking details.