How To Void a Check the Right Way

A voided check is simply a check that can no longer be used to make a payment or withdraw money from your checking account. A voided check has the word “VOID” written across the front of it. 

Voiding a check is simple and only requires a pen or marker, and the check you’d like to void. To void a check, you should: 

• Step 1: Use a blue or black pen or marker that cannot be erased
• Step 2: Write “VOID” in large letters across the front of the check 
• Step 3: Cover as much of the check as possible with your writing, without covering up the routing or bank account number at the bottom of the check 
• Step 4: Keep a record of the voided check by noting the check number
• Step 5: Determine if you should make a copy of the voided check for future use

If you keep a check register, make note of which checks you void. Each check is numbered to help you keep track of each transaction. 

When writing “VOID” on a check, remember not to cover up the routing or bank account number at the bottom. These numbers are necessary for identifying your bank account to send or receive payments.

There are several reasons why you might need to void a check. You may want to make sure no one else uses it, or, you may need to present a voided check for someone to access and confirm your banking information. 

You Made a Mistake or You Already Used It

You should void a check if you make a mistake. You may have written down the wrong amount, addressed it to the wrong person, or dated the check incorrectly. This will keep others from using the check.

A lot of banking apps now offer mobile check deposits. This means you can snap a picture of your paper check and deposit it into your account, right from your phone. Many checks have a checkbox to mark off after mobile deposit. However, you should also void the check after it has already been deposited to keep others from trying to use it if it gets lost or stolen. 

You’re Setting Up a Payment Account

Some financial institutions require you to provide a voided check to process your banking information. You may need to present a voided check to: 

• Set up a direct deposit
• Set up automatic bill payments 
• Set up automatic loan payments 
• Confirm banking information
• Keep record of transactions

If you’re setting up multiple direct deposits or billing accounts, it may be helpful to create a copy of your voided check. Then, you don’t have to keep pulling checks from your checkbook. 

To Help Combat Check Fraud

Voiding a check that should not be in use can also help prevent check fraud. Check fraud can be several different illegal activities. Examples include stealing checks, altering checks, writing checks for amounts you don’t have, or signing someone else’s name. 

By voiding a check, it can no longer be used as payment or to withdraw money. That way, you’re helping protect yourself if your check falls into the wrong hands. 

If you want to get rid of a voided check, the safest method is to shred it. If you don’t have a paper shredder, you can use scissors to cut up the check. Make sure you cut directly through your name, account number, signature, and other important details. 

If you’re unable to or don’t want to dispose of your own checks, many banks will do it for you. 

If you don’t have a voided check, there are other ways you may be able to set up direct deposit. 

• Ask your bank if they can print you a voided check (there may be a small fee)
• See if your bank has pre-filled direct deposit forms available for you to use instead 
• Look into a direct deposit authorization form through your employer
• Check if your employer would accept a deposit slip or photocopy of a check

Requirements often vary depending on the workplace. Some companies may require a voided check to set up direct deposit, while others may be able to work with you to find other alternatives. The main goal is to ensure your paychecks are going to the correct account. 

If you don’t have a voided check, there are other ways you may be able to set up direct deposit. 

• Ask your bank if they can print you a voided check (there may be a small fee)
• See if your bank has pre-filled direct deposit forms available for you to use instead 
• Look into a direct deposit authorization form through your employer
• Check if your employer would accept a deposit slip or photocopy of a check

Requirements often vary depending on the workplace. Some companies may require a voided check to set up direct deposit, while others may be able to work with you to find other alternatives. The main goal is to ensure your paychecks are going to the correct account. 

Below are some commonly asked questions about voiding a check.

With the rise of online and mobile banking, paper checks aren’t as common as they once were. However, they are still in use, so it’s important to know how to properly fill them out, use them, and get rid of them. If you decide to use a check, make sure you know the right way to void it to ensure you, and your money, are safe.