How to Write a Check With Thousands and Cents

Writing a check remains a common method for financial transactions, despite the prevalence of digital payments. Accurately filling out a check, especially for amounts involving thousands and cents, requires precision to ensure the payment is processed correctly and securely. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions for accurately preparing a check.

Identifying Check Components

A standard check contains several blank fields that require specific information to authorize a payment. The upper right portion typically includes a space for the date, indicating when the check is written. Below this, a line labeled “Pay to the Order of” designates the recipient of the funds.

To the right of the payee line, a small box with a dollar sign is provided for the numerical amount. A longer line directly beneath the payee line is for writing out the amount in words. The bottom left includes an optional memo line for notes, while the bottom right is reserved for the payer’s signature.

Writing the Numerical Amount

The numerical value of the check must be entered precisely in the designated dollar box. This box, sometimes called the “courtesy box,” requires the amount to be written as far to the left as possible to deter alterations. For instance, a check for one thousand two hundred thirty-four dollars and fifty cents should be written as “1,234.50”. Always include two digits for cents, even if they are zeros, such as “$1,234.00” for a round dollar amount.

Writing the Written Amount

The written amount on the long line below the payee name serves as the legal amount of the check, meaning banks will honor this value if it differs from the numerical amount. Begin writing the dollar amount in words at the far left of the line to prevent any additions before your entry. For an amount like one thousand two hundred thirty-four dollars, write “One Thousand Two Hundred Thirty-Four.”

When cents are involved, use the word “and” to connect the dollar amount to the cents, which are then written as a fraction over 100, such as “50/100” for fifty cents. Therefore, one thousand two hundred thirty-four dollars and fifty cents becomes “One Thousand Two Hundred Thirty-Four and 50/100 Dollars”. After completing the written amount, draw a line through any remaining blank space on the line to deter fraudulent additions.

Completing Other Essential Details

After addressing the amount fields, complete the remaining necessary details on the check. The date line, located in the upper right corner, should display the current date, typically in a month, day, and year format. Filling in the “Pay to the Order of” line involves writing the full and correct legal name of the person or organization receiving the payment. The signature line, positioned in the bottom right corner, requires the account holder’s signature to authorize the payment. While optional, the memo line, found in the bottom left, provides a space for a brief note, such as an invoice number or purpose of payment, which aids in record-keeping for both the payer and payee.