How to Write Checks: Step-by-Step Guide

Filling out a check is straightforward once you know where everything goes. Let’s break it down field by field to make sure your payment is clear and secure. You’ll want to grab a pen with blue or black ink to get started.

Step 1: Write the current date

In the top right-hand corner of your check, you’ll see a line labeled “Date.” Write today’s date here. Using the current date is standard practice, but you can also post-date a check if you don’t want the recipient to cash it before a certain day. Just be aware that banks may still process it early.¹

Step 2: Fill in the payee’s name

On the line that says “Pay to the order of,” write the full name of the person or company you’re paying. Check the spelling of their name to avoid any issues that would prevent them from cashing or depositing the check.

Step 3: Enter the payment amount in numbers

Find the small box with a dollar sign ($) next to it. In this box, write the payment amount using numerals. For example, if you’re paying $125.50, you’d write “125.50”. Be sure to write it clearly so the numbers can’t be misread.

Step 4: Write out the payment amount in words

Underneath the payee information, you’ll write out the dollar amount in words. This is a security measure to confirm the numerical amount. For cents, write them as a fraction over 100. For example:

• For $125.50, you’d write: “One hundred twenty-five and 50/100”
• For $1,500.00, you’d write: “One thousand five hundred and 00/100”

After writing the amount, draw a line from the end of your words to the pre-printed word “Dollars” to prevent anyone from adding to it.

Step 5: Add a note in the memo line

The memo line in the bottom-left corner is optional, but it can be useful. You can write a brief note about the purpose of the check, like “January 2024 Rent” or “Happy Birthday!” This helps both you and the recipient keep track of what the payment was for.

Step 6: Sign your name

The final step is to sign your name on the line in the bottom-right corner of the check. Your signature authorizes the bank to release the funds from your account. Make sure it matches the signature your bank has on file for you.

Here are some best practices as you get ready to write a check:

Verify the availability of funds before writing a check. When you know you’ll write a check, review your checking account balance to ensure you have enough money to cover the transaction. If someone tries to deposit or cash your check and there’s not enough money in your account, the check will “bounce.” When that happens, you may be charged a non-sufficient funds fee (NSF fee) or an overdraft fee.² The person depositing the check may also be charged a fee by their bank.³

• Keep a check register for record-keeping. Using a digital or paper register to track transactions in and out of your account can help you verify the transactions on your monthly bank statement. At a minimum, write down the details of each check for your records.
• Grab a pen to write your check. If you write a check with a pencil, someone could erase and change the information, including the amount or payee. Writing with a pen helps ensure the check isn’t altered. Use blue or black ink.
• Use clear handwriting to prevent misunderstandings. If your handwriting is hard to read, the bank might make an error when processing your check. Clear handwriting helps people and computers more accurately understand the check’s details.