How to Write the Dollar Amount on a Check

A check is a written order to a bank, instructing it to pay a specific amount from your account to a recipient. Accurately completing this financial instrument is fundamental for ensuring your payment is processed correctly and securely. Errors can lead to delays or financial complications. Understanding the proper method for filling out each part of a check helps maintain financial clarity and integrity.

Entering the Numeric Dollar Amount

The first step is to write the numeric amount. This is done in a box to the right of the payee line, often with a dollar sign ($). Write clearly and legibly to prevent misinterpretation.

For $123.45, write “123.45”. For whole dollar amounts like $123, write “123.00” or “123—” to indicate no cents. Filling the entire space helps deter fraudulent alterations.

Writing the Word Amount

Following the numeric entry, the amount must be written in words on a dedicated line below the payee line, ending with “dollars.” This written amount serves as the legal tender amount, meaning that if there is a discrepancy between the numeric and word amounts, the bank will typically honor the amount written in words.

Spell out the whole dollar portion, for example, “One Hundred Twenty-Three.” Cents are represented as a fraction, such as “45/100.” Thus, for $123.45, you would write “One Hundred Twenty-Three and 45/100.” For whole dollar amounts, write “00/100” or “no/100” after the dollar amount, for example, “One Hundred Twenty-Three and 00/100.” Begin the written amount as far left as possible and draw a line through any remaining space to prevent unauthorized additions.

Ensuring Accuracy and Security

Ensuring the accuracy and security of the amounts written on a check requires careful attention to detail. A fundamental practice is to verify that the numeric amount in the box precisely matches the word amount written on the line. This consistency is important because banks rely on the written word amount as the definitive value.

Using permanent ink, such as black or blue gel ink, is a significant security measure. Gel inks are more difficult to alter or wash off with chemicals, a fraudulent technique known as “check washing” that aims to change the payee or amount. If a mistake is made, void the check entirely and start over with a new one, rather than attempting corrections. This practice prevents potential issues during processing and safeguards against fraudulent manipulation. After all details, including the amounts, are correctly entered and verified, the check should be signed.