How to Write a Check With Dollars and Cents

A check is a written instruction to a financial institution, directing it to pay a specified sum from your account to a designated recipient. It remains a widely used method for various financial transactions. Accuracy and clarity are important when completing a check to ensure proper processing and prevent complications.

Essential Information for Your Check

Before writing a check, gather all necessary payment details. This includes the current date, the full legal name of the payee, and the exact numerical amount, including both dollars and cents. Consider any purpose for the payment to note on the memo line for your records.

Writing the Numeric Amount

The small box on the right side of the check is for the numerical payment amount. This field requires careful completion to prevent alterations. Begin by writing the dollar sign immediately before the first digit, ensuring no space for additional numbers. For instance, $75.

A decimal point separates dollars from cents. Always include two digits for cents, even for whole dollar amounts. For example, $75.00 or $75.50. This consistent format helps ensure the amount is clearly understood and reduces ambiguity. Filling this box neatly helps prevent unauthorized changes.

Writing the Written Amount

Below the numeric box, a line is provided for writing the payment amount in words. This field is the legal tender amount and must precisely match the numerical figure. Begin writing at the far left of the line to prevent additions. For example, “Seventy-Five.”

After the dollar amount in words, “and” separates dollars from cents. Cents are written as a fraction over 100. So, “Seventy-Five and 00/100” or “Seventy-Five and 50/100.” This fractional representation ensures clarity. Fill the entire remaining line, often by drawing a continuous line to the “Dollars” text. This “lining out” helps prevent fraudulent additions. Discrepancies between the written and numerical amounts can cause banks to return the check unpaid, as the written amount is considered the controlling figure.

Finalizing Your Check

After detailing the payment amounts, complete other fields for proper check completion. Write the current date in the designated area, usually near the top right, ensuring timely processing. Fill in the payee’s full name on the “Pay to the Order of” line.

The memo line, at the bottom left, is optional but useful for noting the payment’s purpose, such as “November Rent” or an invoice number. While it does not affect validity, it aids record-keeping.

The signature line, typically in the bottom right, requires your signature. A check is not valid without the account holder’s signature. Before tendering, review all fields for accuracy and completeness.