What Can I Use Instead of a Voided Check?

When setting up various financial transactions, such as direct deposit for paychecks or automatic payments for bills, providing banking details is often a requirement. A voided check has long served as a standard method to furnish this information, offering a quick way to share account specifics. However, many individuals may not have a checkbook readily available, or they prefer digital solutions. Understanding suitable alternatives to a voided check can streamline these processes and ensure financial arrangements are set up efficiently.

Key Banking Information

A voided check serves a specific purpose: to accurately convey essential banking information to a third party. The primary pieces of data it provides are the routing number and the account number. The routing number, a nine-digit code, identifies your financial institution, directing funds to the correct bank, while your account number, which can vary in length, specifies your unique individual account within that bank. Both numbers are necessary for electronic transactions, ensuring that money is correctly debited or credited. Additionally, the check displays the account holder’s name and the bank’s name, confirming ownership and institution.

Widely Accepted Substitutes

Several documents can effectively replace a voided check by providing the necessary banking details. Each of these alternatives is accepted because they present the financial identifiers needed for transactions.

A direct deposit form from your bank is a common alternative. These forms are pre-printed by the bank and include routing and account information.
Your bank statement also contains this information, displaying your routing number and account number.
Many banks offer an online banking information page within their secure portals that shows your routing and account numbers.
Another option is a formal bank letter, sometimes called a bank verification or confirmation letter. This document is issued by your bank and confirms your account details on bank letterhead.
Lastly, a deposit slip from your checkbook or provided by the bank can be used. While primarily for deposits, these slips include your account number and the bank’s routing number.

Steps to Obtain and Submit Alternatives

Obtaining Alternatives

Obtaining these alternative documents involves interaction with your bank, in person or through digital channels.

For a direct deposit form from your bank, you can download it from your bank’s website, find it within your online banking portal, or request one at a local branch. Bank statements can be accessed by logging into your online banking account and downloading a digital copy, or retrieving a physical statement. When using an online banking information page, log into your account, navigate to the account details or direct deposit information section, and then print or screenshot the page.

To acquire a bank letter, you will need to request one from your bank. This can be done by visiting a branch, calling customer service, or through a secure message feature within your online banking platform. Banks may charge a fee (often $0-$10) for such a letter, and it can take a few business days to receive. If using a deposit slip, you can find one in your checkbook, or request one at a bank teller window.

Submitting Alternatives

Once you have the alternative, ensure it is clear and legible, then provide it to the requesting party, confirming submission preferences, such as email, mail, or online upload.