How to Write a Personal Check: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

A personal check is a written order to a bank, instructing it to pay a specific amount from your account to the person or entity named on the check. Checks remain a relevant method for various transactions, such as paying monthly bills, making rent payments, or purchasing items from vendors who do not accept electronic payments. Accurately completing a check ensures payments are processed correctly.

Information Needed Before You Write

Before filling out a check, gather all necessary payment details. You will need the current date. Obtain the full, legal name of the individual or organization receiving the payment, often called the payee.

Have the exact numerical amount you intend to pay readily available. Finally, consider the specific purpose of the payment, as this information can be included on the check for your records and the payee’s understanding.

Writing Each Part of the Check

Write the current date in the designated date line, typically near the top right. Next, write the recipient’s full legal name on the “Pay to the order of” line. Using the exact legal name is important for proper endorsement and deposit.

Enter the numerical amount in the small box to the right of the payee line. Place the dollar sign before the numbers and use a decimal point to separate dollars from cents, for example, “$123.45.” Below the payee line, write out the payment amount in words, starting at the far left to prevent alterations. For instance, “One hundred twenty-three and 45/100 dollars” clearly states the amount.

Draw a line from the end of the written amount to the word “Dollars” to prevent additions. Use the “Memo” line, at the bottom left, to briefly note the payment’s purpose, such as “August Rent” or an account number. Finally, sign your full legal signature on the signature line at the bottom right. This authorizes your bank to release the funds.

After You Write the Check

Once you have completed and signed the check, take immediate steps to record the transaction for your financial management. It is important to log the check number, the date it was written, the payee’s name, and the exact amount in a check register or personal finance tracking application. This detailed record helps you monitor your account balance and track expenditures.

Before handing over the check, perform a quick review to confirm all fields are accurately filled and legible. Confirming the numerical and written amounts match and the payee’s name is correct helps prevent processing delays or potential financial discrepancies.