What Is a Pre-Printed Voided Check?

A voided check is a standard paper check that has been intentionally invalidated to prevent it from being used for payment. It typically has the word “VOID” written across its face, rendering it unusable for financial transactions. This simple act safeguards against unauthorized use while still allowing the check to serve a crucial administrative purpose for various financial processes.

Understanding a Pre-Printed Voided Check

A “pre-printed voided check” refers to a check from your checkbook that already contains your personalized information. This includes your name, address, your bank’s name, and, most importantly, your bank’s routing number and your specific account number.

Even though the check is voided, the pre-printed details remain legible. The routing number, a nine-digit code identifying your financial institution, and your account number, which identifies your specific bank account, are clearly visible. This information is essential for securely providing your banking details to third parties without the risk of unauthorized withdrawals.

Common Uses for a Voided Check

A voided check is frequently requested in situations requiring the secure transfer of banking information. One of its primary uses is setting up direct deposit for payroll, allowing employers to accurately and consistently deposit earnings directly into an employee’s bank account. This eliminates the need for physical paychecks and streamlines the payment process.

Beyond payroll, voided checks are commonly used to establish automatic bill payments for recurring expenses like utilities, rent, or loan payments. They can also be necessary for initiating direct debits for investment contributions or linking external financial accounts. The voided check acts as a verified document of your account details, reducing errors and ensuring secure electronic transfers.

Obtaining a Voided Check

The most common way to obtain a voided check is by using a blank check from your personal checkbook. Ensure the check comes from an active account.

If you do not have physical checks, financial institutions offer several alternatives. Many banks can provide a starter check, a deposit slip, or a bank-generated document, often called a direct deposit form or account verification letter, which contains your routing and account numbers. Some banks also allow customers to generate and print a digital voided check directly from their online banking portal.

How to Void a Standard Check

To properly void a standard check, begin by taking a blank check from your checkbook. Using a dark blue or black permanent ink pen, write the word “VOID” in large, capital letters across the entire face of the check. This marking should be prominent enough to clearly invalidate the check, covering the areas typically used for the amount, payee, and signature.

It is advisable to write “VOID” in multiple places, such as across the date line, payee line, amount box, amount line, and signature line, to ensure complete invalidation. Crucially, do not sign the check, as this could create confusion. After voiding, record the check number in your check register to keep an accurate record of the invalidated check.