How to Write Out a Check for a Wedding

When preparing a monetary gift for a wedding, knowing how to correctly write a check ensures the funds reach the intended recipients smoothly. This process involves understanding the various fields on a check and proper etiquette. Accurate completion of each section prevents delays or issues with deposit, providing peace of mind for both the giver and the couple.

Key Parts of a Check

A standard check contains several distinct areas that must be completed. Near the top right, a line is designated for the current date. Directly below this, the “Pay to the Order of” line specifies the recipient of the funds.

To the right of the payee line, a small box holds the numeric value. Below the payee line, a longer line is provided to write out the check amount in words, which serves as the legal amount. On the bottom left, the “Memo” or “For” line offers space for a brief description of the payment’s purpose, which is optional but helpful for record-keeping. Finally, the signature line requires the account holder’s signature to authorize payment.

Identifying the Right Payee for a Wedding

Determining the correct payee for a wedding check is a primary consideration to ensure the gift can be easily deposited. If both individuals are retaining their original last names, the check should typically be made out to both of their full legal names, such as “Jane Doe and John Smith.” This approach covers both parties and facilitates deposit into a joint account.

When one individual is taking the other’s last name, it is often appropriate to address the check to “Mr. and Mrs. [New Last Name]” or to use their full legal names, for example, “Jane Smith and John Smith.” Alternatively, you could use “Ms. [Bride’s Maiden Name] and Mr. [Groom’s Last Name]” if you are unsure of the new name or if the couple prefers this format. The goal is to use names that align with how their bank accounts are or will be established.

For couples choosing a new, hyphenated, or entirely different last name, if this information is known, using their chosen legal names is the most direct method. However, if there is any uncertainty about their future legal names, the safest approach is to use both individuals’ full legal names as they currently appear. This ensures flexibility for deposit, as banks typically accept checks with both names listed, regardless of future name changes. Referencing the wedding invitation or registry for their full legal names can provide clarity and help prevent issues with the check’s acceptance.

Completing the Check Details

Once the correct payee is determined, filling in the remaining parts of the check requires precision. Begin by writing the current date on the designated line.

Next, enter the numerical value of your gift into the small box to the right of the payee line. It is a common practice to start the numbers close to the dollar sign to prevent any alteration of the amount. Following this, write out the same amount in words on the long line provided, extending the written amount to the end of the line, often with a line drawn to the word “dollars,” to deter any additions. For instance, “One hundred and 00/100” for a $100 check.

The memo line offers a small space for a brief note, such as “Wedding Gift” or “Congratulations,” providing a clear purpose for the payment. This is optional but helpful for the couple’s financial records. Finally, sign your signature on the signature line to authorize payment.

Presenting Your Wedding Gift Check

After completing the check, present it to the couple. The most common method is to place the check inside a wedding card. Seal the card in its envelope to ensure privacy and security during delivery.

Bring the card and check directly to the wedding ceremony or reception, where a designated gift table or box is available. Mailing the gift directly to the couple’s home address, before or after the wedding date, is also an option. While there is no strict deadline, presenting the gift within a few months of the wedding date is customary.