Writing checks is not as complicated as many newbies think it is. Our world has turned digital, this made writing a check almost a thing of the past. But, sometimes it is still something you will have to do.
If you have never written a check, you may need to learn how to fill one out. In this article, we will learn how to write out a check. Continue reading for our step-by-step guide.
Step 1
The first thing you will need to do is rip off the first check on the perforated line. If you haven’t used a check from your checkbook before, your check number in the top right corner will likely start at number 01.
Step 2
Once you have your check, you will need to fill out the date. The date is located below the check number in the top right corner.
Be sure to date it correctly, as a wrong date can void the check.
Step 3
The next step is to make the check out to whoever it is going to. This line may be filled out to the name of a person or a business. Check your spelling to make sure it exactly matches who the check is going to. This should be filled out on the first line under your name and address.
Step 4
underneath the line that you just completed with the name, you will have to fill out the dollar amount in words. For example, if the check is for $5, you will write it out as Five Dollars. If the amount doesn’t have change, you will write 00/100 at the end. This means zero out of 100 cents.
Step 5
You will also have to write the dollar amount using numbers in the rectangle box next to the written form of the amount. Again, if the amount is $5, you will write it as $5.00. Always be sure to add the zeros at the end. A completed check is harder to change. Scammers are everywhere, so you will want to protect yourself from forgery.
Step 6
At the bottom of the check, in the left corner, you will see a line, this line is for writing what the check is for. Let’s say the check is for a utility bill, you will write “Water Bill” or “Gas Bill”. This line is for your records, but sometimes can help the receiver process where the check goes.
This line can also be used for account numbers. Depending on who you are writing the check out to, they may have a special request of what they want to be written on the line. Be sure to find out exactly what is needed before turning in the check.
Step 7
On the opposite bottom corner, you will see a line for you to sign. This is where you put your signature verifying that you are the person who wrote the check. Be sure to use your regular signature that matches what the bank has on file.
