How to Mail a Check Securely and Safely

Mailing a physical check remains a necessary task for various reasons, even in an increasingly digital world. Individuals often mail checks for rent payments, specific bills that do not offer electronic options, or as gifts to organizations and individuals who prefer or require a physical form of payment. While digital transactions provide convenience, understanding the proper procedure for mailing a check ensures that your payment reaches its intended recipient accurately and securely.

Preparing Your Check and Envelope

Before mailing a check, gather a check from your checkbook, a pen with dark, permanent ink, an envelope, and a postage stamp. Filling out the check correctly is the first step.

Write the current date in the top right corner of the check, using either a numerical format (e.g., MM/DD/YYYY) or the month spelled out. On the “Pay to the Order of” line, write the recipient’s full name. Accuracy in the payee’s name is important for correct processing.

Below the payee’s name, write the numerical amount in the box provided, ensuring the numbers are clear and legible. For example, write “100.50” for one hundred dollars and fifty cents. Immediately following this, write out the amount in words on the designated line, such as “One hundred and 50/100 Dollars,” extending a line through any remaining space to prevent additional numbers from being added. The memo line is optional but can be used to note the payment’s purpose, such as an account number. Finally, sign your name on the signature line, as a check is not valid without your authorization.

Once the check is completed, address the envelope. Write the recipient’s full name and address in the lower center. Place your full name and return address in the upper left-hand corner; this ensures the mail can be returned if undeliverable. Affix a postage stamp to the upper right-hand corner.

Mailing Your Check

After the check is filled out and the envelope addressed, securely fold the check and insert it, then seal the envelope completely. Ensure the postage stamp is firmly attached to the upper right-hand corner. Then, submit your mail for delivery.

You can deposit the envelope into a blue United States Postal Service (USPS) collection box, which are emptied regularly. Alternatively, drop off your mail directly at a Post Office, especially for important mail or if you need assistance. For home mailboxes, placing the envelope inside with the flag raised signals outgoing mail to the carrier.

Ensuring Security When Mailing

To minimize theft risk, use secure mail drop locations like blue USPS collection boxes or Post Office mail slots. Avoid leaving checks in an unsecured home mailbox for pickup, as thieves may target them for fraud. Also, do not leave sensitive mail in unsecured mailboxes overnight or over weekends, as this increases vulnerability.

For important checks or when proof of delivery is needed, consider postal services with tracking and delivery confirmation. USPS Certified Mail provides a mailing receipt and electronic verification of delivery, often with a signature option. As of July 2025, the base fee for Certified Mail is $5.30, with additional costs for mailed ($4.40) or electronic ($2.82) return receipts. Priority Mail also includes tracking, typically delivering within 2-3 business days.

In the event of a mistake while writing a check, immediately void the check by writing “VOID” across the front to prevent its misuse. Any voided checks or documents containing sensitive personal or financial information, such as account numbers or routing numbers, should be securely shredded before disposal. Finally, consistently monitor your bank statements to ensure that checks you have mailed clear for the correct amount and were processed by the intended recipient. Most checks typically clear within two business days, although this can vary based on the bank and check amount. Prompt review of statements can help identify any unauthorized activity quickly.