How to Properly Write Out Cents on a Check

A check serves as a written instruction to a financial institution, authorizing it to pay a specific amount of money from your account to a designated recipient. It functions as a tangible record of a transaction, providing a clear audit trail for both the payer and the payee. Accurate and clear completion of a check is important to ensure proper processing, prevent potential errors, and safeguard against fraud. This careful attention to detail helps maintain the integrity of your financial records.

Writing the Dollar Amount

When preparing a check, the dollar amount must be indicated in two distinct places to ensure clarity and security. First, the numerical amount is entered into the small box located on the right side of the check, following a pre-printed dollar sign. This numerical entry should clearly display both dollars and cents, separated by a decimal point. For instance, one hundred dollars would be written as “100.00.”

Immediately below the payee line, the dollar amount is written out in words on the “dollars” line. For whole dollar amounts, spell out the number followed by “Dollars,” such as “One Hundred Dollars.” This written amount serves as the legally binding figure if there is any discrepancy with the numerical entry. Begin writing the word amount as far to the left as possible on the designated line.

Writing the Cents Amount

Accurately handling the cents portion is a specific detail when filling out a check. In the numerical box, cents are indicated by two digits after the decimal point, for example, “.50” for fifty cents. This ensures the exact amount is clearly represented in figures.

On the line where the amount is written in words, the cents are expressed as a fraction of one hundred, immediately following the dollar amount. For instance, “and 50/100” would represent fifty cents. If the amount is a whole dollar with no cents, write “and 00/100” or “and No/100” to maintain clarity and prevent alteration.

Tips for Accuracy and Clarity

To enhance check security and readability, follow several best practices. Always use a pen, preferably blue or black ink, as pencil can be easily erased and altered. After writing the numerical and word amounts, draw a horizontal line through any remaining blank space on the amount line to prevent unauthorized additions.

Legible handwriting is important, as unclear figures or words can lead to processing delays or errors. If a mistake occurs while filling out a check, void the check and start anew rather than attempting corrections. Alterations can raise suspicion and may cause the financial institution to reject the check. The word “and” should only separate the dollar amount from the cents portion in the written amount, not within the dollar amount itself.