How to Create a Voided Check: Step-by-Step Instructions

A voided check is an important document for managing personal finances. It securely provides your banking details for various financial arrangements. Understanding how to properly create a voided check ensures accuracy and protects your account information. This straightforward process involves marking a check to prevent its use for transactions.

Understanding Voided Checks

A voided check is a paper check intentionally invalidated by writing “VOID” across its face. This renders the check unusable for financial transactions, meaning it cannot be cashed or deposited. Its primary purpose is to securely convey your bank account information to a third party without the risk of unauthorized withdrawals.

Employers, utility companies, or financial institutions often request a voided check when setting up automated financial processes. This includes establishing direct deposit for payroll, initiating automatic bill payments, or linking external bank accounts for transfers. The check contains crucial identifying details: your bank’s routing number, your individual account number, and the check number. Providing a voided check offers these numbers in a standardized, printed format, which helps minimize transcription errors and ensures the correct account is identified for electronic transfers.

Steps to Void a Check

To create a voided check, begin by selecting a blank, unused check from your checkbook. It is important that this check has not been filled out or signed previously. Use a pen with blue or black permanent ink to ensure the mark is clear and cannot be easily altered or erased.

Next, clearly write the word “VOID” in large letters across the entire front of the check. While writing “VOID” largely across the center is effective, you can also write it multiple times across key areas such as the payee line, the amount box, and the signature line. Ensure that the word “VOID” does not obscure the routing and account numbers located at the bottom of the check. These numbers must remain fully legible, as they are the information the voided check is intended to provide.

Submitting Your Voided Check

After you have properly voided the check, you will need to submit it to the requesting entity. Common methods for submission include physically handing it over, mailing it, or, in some cases, scanning and uploading a digital image online. Always verify the specific submission requirements with the party requesting the voided check to ensure compliance.

It is prudent to make a photocopy or take a clear photograph of the voided check for your personal records before submission. This provides you with a documented copy of what was provided. Once the voided check is no longer needed, it should be disposed of securely, such as by shredding it, to protect your sensitive banking information from potential misuse.