How to Write a Check With Dollars and Cents

Writing a check accurately ensures your payment is processed correctly and avoids delays. Understanding how to properly enter the monetary amount, especially with dollars and cents, is fundamental. Precision helps safeguard against errors and protects your financial records.

Understanding Check Fields

A standard check contains several distinct areas for specific information. At the top right, a line is provided for the current date. Below this, the “Pay to the Order of” line is where the name of the recipient, or payee, is entered.

To the right of the payee line, a small box is present for the numeric payment amount, preceded by a dollar sign. Below the payee line, a longer line is dedicated to writing out the payment amount in words. This written amount acts as the legal tender amount, which financial institutions primarily rely upon. A signature line in the bottom right corner authenticates the check, and an optional memo line allows for a brief description of the payment’s purpose.

Writing the Numeric Amount

When entering the numeric value, locate the small box on the right side of the check. Write the full dollar amount clearly, followed by a decimal point. Ensure the decimal point is distinct to separate dollars from cents.

After the decimal point, write the two digits representing the cents. For example, if the amount is twenty-five dollars and fifty cents, write “25.50”. If the amount is a whole dollar amount with no cents, such as one hundred dollars, write “100.00” to indicate zero cents. This consistent two-digit format for cents helps prevent any ambiguity.

Writing the Word Amount with Cents

Writing the numeric amount in words, especially with cents, is a step financial institutions prioritize. On the designated line below the payee’s name, write out the dollar amount in full words. For example, for seventy-five dollars, write “Seventy-five.”

Following the written dollar amount, insert the word “and.” After “and,” write the cents as a fraction over 100. For example, fifty cents is “50/100.” The complete written amount for seventy-five dollars and fifty cents reads “Seventy-five and 50/100.” If the amount is a whole dollar with no cents, write “and 00/100” or “and no/100.” After completing the written amount, draw a line from the end of your writing to the “Dollars” print on the check.

Completing Your Check

After entering the numeric and written amounts, the remaining fields finalize your check. On the date line, typically located in the top right corner, write the current date. This date serves as a reference point for when the check was issued.

Next, accurately write the full legal name of the individual or entity receiving the payment on the “Pay to the Order of” line. This step ensures that the funds are directed to the correct recipient. Finally, apply your signature on the signature line at the bottom right of the check. Your signature authorizes the financial institution to disburse the funds from your account. An optional memo line can be used to briefly describe the purpose of the payment, such as “Rent for August” or “Utility Bill.”