How to Get a Voided Check From Your Bank or Online

A voided check is a standard paper check with “VOID” written across its face, rendering it unusable. Its primary purpose is to provide essential banking information, such as your bank account and routing numbers, without the risk of unauthorized use. This acts as a security measure, ensuring that while the necessary details are shared, the check itself cannot be cashed or deposited.

Ways to Get a Voided Check

Obtaining a voided check can be done through several methods, depending on whether you have a physical checkbook or prefer digital solutions. Each approach ensures that you can securely provide your banking details when requested.

One common method involves using a physical check from your checkbook. Write “VOID” in large, clear letters across the entire front of a blank check. Ensure the word covers most of the check, but avoid obscuring the routing and account numbers at the bottom. This prevents anyone from filling out the check for payment while still allowing the bank details to be read.

Many financial institutions offer digital alternatives through their online banking platforms. Users can often log into their account, navigate to a section like “account details” or “direct deposit information,” and find an option to generate a printable document that serves as a voided check. This digital document will contain your bank’s routing number and your account number, often with “VOID” or “Direct Deposit Form” clearly indicated. While convenient, not all banks provide this specific feature, so checking your bank’s website or mobile app is advisable.

If you do not have a physical checkbook or cannot access an online option, visiting your bank branch is another viable solution. Bank tellers can provide a pre-printed document that contains your routing and account numbers, which functions identically to a voided check. When visiting a branch, bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID, to verify your identity.

Understanding Information on a Voided Check

A voided check contains two primary pieces of information that are crucial for electronic financial transactions. These details are consistently located at the bottom of the check and are essential for identifying both your financial institution and your specific account.

The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies your financial institution. It acts like an address for your bank, directing funds to the correct institution during electronic transfers. This number is found at the bottom of a check.

The account number identifies your specific account at that financial institution. This unique sequence of digits ensures that funds are deposited into or withdrawn from your particular checking or savings account. The account number is located directly to the right of the routing number. Together, the routing and account numbers enable accurate and secure electronic transactions.

When a Voided Check is Needed

A voided check is frequently requested in various financial scenarios where your bank account and routing information are required for electronic transfers. The primary goal is to securely transmit these details without enabling a monetary transaction from the check itself.

One common use is when setting up direct deposit for payroll with an employer. Employers require this information to ensure paychecks are electronically deposited into the correct bank account. Similarly, a voided check is often requested for establishing automatic bill payments, such as for utilities, mortgages, or loan repayments. This allows companies to automatically withdraw funds from your account on scheduled dates.

Linking external financial accounts, like investment platforms or payment applications, necessitates a voided check. It serves as verification of your banking details, facilitating transfers between different institutions. Providing a voided check ensures accuracy and helps prevent errors in these electronic setups.