What Happens If You Try to Cash a Voided Check?

A voided check is a standard check that has been intentionally marked to prevent it from being cashed or deposited. Its purpose is not for monetary transactions but to securely provide bank account details.

What a Voided Check Is and Why It Cannot Be Cashed

A check is voided by writing the word “VOID” in large, clear letters across its front. This marking should cover the entire check, including the payee line, amount boxes, signature line, and date line, to ensure it cannot be altered for fraudulent use. Using a permanent black or blue ink pen is advisable to prevent erasure or tampering.

Banks are equipped to identify these markings, and their processing systems will reject any attempt to process a voided check for payment. This measure prevents unauthorized withdrawals and protects the account holder from potential fraud. The “VOID” status essentially cancels the check as a financial instrument, reinforcing security by ensuring that only the printed banking information remains relevant.

Common Uses for a Voided Check

The primary data extracted from a voided check includes the bank’s name, the routing number (a nine-digit code identifying the financial institution), and the account number (identifying the specific account). These details are printed at the bottom of the check, designed for machine readability.

One of the most frequent uses for a voided check is setting up direct deposit for payroll. Employers often request a voided check to ensure accurate routing of an employee’s salary into their bank account. This provides the payroll department with precise banking details, minimizing errors that could delay payment. The voided check verifies the account holder’s information and establishes a secure electronic link for automatic transfers.

Voided checks are also commonly used to establish automatic bill payments. Companies providing services like utilities, mortgages, or other recurring bills may request a voided check to set up automated deductions from a bank account. This method provides the service provider with the correct account details, facilitating timely payments and reducing the need for manual transactions. Furthermore, a voided check may be requested when linking external bank accounts, such as for transfers between a checking and savings account, or for setting up new financial accounts that require verified bank details.

Providing Bank Information Without a Voided Check

There are several practical alternatives for providing bank account information when a voided check is not available or convenient. One common method is to use a bank statement, which typically displays both the routing and account numbers. These numbers are usually found at the top or bottom of the statement.

Many banks offer the ability to download or print direct deposit forms or account information sheets directly from their online banking portals or mobile applications. These digital resources often come pre-filled with the necessary routing and account numbers. Some financial institutions can also provide a pre-printed direct deposit form or a letter on bank letterhead that includes all required account information.

Another option is using a deposit slip. While a deposit slip typically contains the account number, it may not always include the routing number, making it less suitable for all situations requiring both pieces of information. In cases where direct deposit is being set up, simply providing the routing number and account number directly to the requesting entity, such as a payroll department, can be sufficient. Many organizations now accept this information verbally or through secure online forms.