What Should a Properly Filled Out Check Look Like?
Ensure your checks are always correct and secure. This guide explains how to properly complete a check from start to finish.
Checks remain a payment method for various financial transactions, from paying bills to transferring funds. Correctly completing a check ensures payments are processed accurately. A properly filled out check provides clear instructions to a financial institution, facilitating fund transfers.
Essential Elements of a Check
A standard check contains several pre-printed and fillable components. The top left typically displays the account holder’s name and address. Each check also has a unique check number, found in the top right corner and at the bottom.
The date line, in the upper right corner, records the check’s issue date. Below this, the “Pay to the order of” line designates the recipient. To the right of the payee line, a box with a dollar sign is provided for the numeric amount. Below the payee line, a longer line is reserved for writing out the payment amount in words.
The bottom of the check contains banking information, including the bank’s name and address. The routing number identifies the financial institution, while the account number specifies the checking account. A memo line, on the bottom left, offers an optional space for notes about the payment’s purpose. Finally, the signature line, in the bottom right, authenticates the check and authorizes the payment.
How to Properly Fill Out a Check
Begin by writing the current date on the date line in the upper right corner; this can be in month/day/year format or spelled out. Next, write the full legal name of the recipient on the “Pay to the order of” line. For individuals, include both first and last names, and for organizations, use the full legal name.
Enter the numeric dollar amount in the small box to the right of the payee line, including cents even for whole dollar amounts (e.g., “500.00”). On the line below the payee, write out the full dollar amount in words. For amounts with cents, write the cents as a fraction over 100 (e.g., “and 45/100”), filling any remaining space with a line to prevent alterations.
The memo line, while optional, is useful for noting the payment’s purpose, such as “Rent” or “Invoice #123”. Finally, sign the check on the signature line in the bottom right corner, using the same signature on file with your bank. Use blue or black permanent ink for all entries to prevent alterations.
Important Considerations for Check Writing
Always use clear, legible handwriting to prevent misinterpretation. Fill in all blank spaces on the amount lines to deter fraudulent alterations; for example, draw a line through any unused space after the written amount. The numeric and written amounts must match precisely, as discrepancies can lead to the check being returned unpaid.
Maintain a consistent signature, identical to the one on file with your financial institution, for check authentication. If a mistake occurs, void the check by writing “VOID” across the front and then write a new one. Errors that can invalidate a check include missing signatures, mismatched amounts, an incorrect or missing date, incorrect post-dating, or presentation for clearance more than three months after its issue date.