What Can You Write on a Printed Check?

Knowing what to write on a printed check is important for smooth financial transactions. Properly completing a check helps guarantee its validity and security, which is beneficial for both personal finances and business dealings. Checks remain a common payment method, requiring attention to detail for correct processing.

Key Parts of a Check

A standard check contains several pre-printed elements, each serving a specific purpose. The top right line is for the date, indicating when the check is written. Below this, the “Pay to the order of” line specifies the recipient of the funds, known as the payee. To the right of the payee line, a small box is for the numeric amount, where the payment value is written in figures. Immediately below, a longer line is reserved for the written amount, spelling out the payment value in words.

A memo line, typically in the bottom left, offers an optional space for a brief note regarding the check’s purpose. The signature line, usually in the bottom right, is where the check issuer authorizes the payment. At the bottom, pre-printed routing and account numbers identify the bank and specific account from which funds will be drawn. These numbers are important for electronic processing and should not be altered.

Necessary Handwritten Information

For a check to be valid, certain information must be accurately handwritten. The current date should be written on the date line, typically in MM/DD/YYYY format or by spelling out the month. The payee’s full legal name or exact business name should be written clearly on the “Pay to the order of” line. While writing “cash” is possible, it carries risk as anyone possessing the check can then cash it. The numeric amount should be entered in the small box, including cents even for whole dollar amounts (e.g., “$500.00”). This helps prevent alterations.

The written amount must precisely match the numeric amount. For example, “$130.45” would be written as “One hundred thirty and 45/100.” Drawing a line through any remaining space after the written amount helps prevent fraudulent additions. The check must be signed on the signature line, matching the signature on file with the bank. The memo line is optional but useful for record-keeping, such as noting an account or invoice number.

Actions That Void a Check

Certain actions can render a check invalid. Material alterations, such as changes to the payee’s name, the amount, or the date after the check has been written, can void the check. Banks may reject checks with unclear handwriting, especially if the amount or payee is illegible, leading to processing issues. A check is invalid if it lacks essential information like a date, a payee, both the numeric and written amounts, or the issuer’s signature.

Overwriting or erasing information on a check is problematic and can indicate fraudulent activity, often resulting in the check being voided. If the numeric and written amounts on a check differ, the check may be voided, or the bank may legally process the check based on the written amount, which can lead to complications. Physical damage to the check, particularly to the routing or account numbers printed at the bottom, can also make it unreadable and cause rejection by financial institutions. Additionally, checks can become “stale-dated” if not cashed within a certain period and may be refused by the bank.

Safeguarding Check Integrity

Using a permanent pen with black or blue ink is advisable for check security. This ink is less susceptible to alteration techniques like “check washing,” where criminals attempt to erase and change written details. Filling in all blank spaces on the check, particularly on the amount lines, helps deter fraud by preventing unauthorized additions to the payment amount.

Writing clearly and consistently improves readability and reduces processing errors. If a mistake is made, write “VOID” in large, clear letters across the entire front of the check, ensuring routing and account numbers remain visible. Draw lines through any blank fields and securely shred the voided check, as it contains sensitive account information. Keeping a check register for all checks, including voided ones, helps maintain accurate financial records.