Due to the prevalence of electronic payments in modern society, paper checks are often overlooked. But there are still times when a check is necessary. If you want to pay your rent, make a contribution, or settle a payment, you’ll need to know how to write a check. In this detailed tutorial, you’ll learn each step of the procedure for writing a check the right way, every time.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Materials
It’s important to have all the required information on hand before beginning to write a check. You’ll need a checkbook, an indelible-ink pen, and a steady, level surface. Make sure you have enough blank checks and money in your bank account to cover the amount of the check you want to write.
Step 2: Fill in the Date
There is a spot for the date in the upper right corner of the check. Please use the month-day-year format for the current date. Permanent ink should be used to avoid forgeries and other forms of modification.
Step 3: Write the Recipient’s Name
Find the “Pay to the Order of” line in the middle of the cheque. Enter the name of the person or organization you are making a payment to. Use the correct and complete name so there are no problems processing the check.
Step 4: Write the Amount in Numbers
A dollar symbol ($) precedes the box or line on the right side of the check. The dollar amount of your payment should be entered here. Begin writing the amount on the left side of the box, as near to the dollar sign as possible, leaving no room for error. If the total is $150, you would write “150.00.”
Step 5: Write the Amount in Words
A worded amount must be entered in the area provided next to the “Pay to the Order of” line. This is essential since the check’s lawful amount is the amount printed on the check. Use both words and figures, and begin as near to the left edge of the line as feasible. To indicate a payment of $150, you might write “$150.00 and 00/100.”
Step 6: Memo Line (Optional)
The bottom left corner of certain checks serves as a note line. There’s room here for you to elaborate on the transaction’s rationale. The note line is not required, however it might be useful for clarification or further documentation if you want to use it. In the note line, you may put “July rent” or “Invoice #123” if you were sending a rent payment.
Step 7: Sign the Check
The line for the signer’s or authorized signer’s signature appears in the lower right corner of the check. Put your signature here just like you would on any other financial document. Verify that the signature you provided is the same one the bank has on file for you. Keep in mind that a check needs your signature in order to be processed.
Step 8: Record the Transaction
The checkbook register is a vital tool for keeping track of your financial transactions. Fill out the register with the check’s details, including the number, date, payee, and amount. You’ll be able to keep better track of your money and more easily reconcile your bank statement if you do this.
Step 9: Detach the Check
Carefully rip the check along the perforated edge to remove it from the checkbook after filling out all required areas and documenting the transaction. Make sure you peel it apart without ripping the check.
Conclusion
With the rise of electronic payment methods, learning how to write a check may seem like a lost art. Still, there are times when a paper check is necessary or preferable. This article will walk you through the steps necessary to confidently and accurately write a check. Make sure you have all you need, complete out the forms accurately, and keep track of your dealings. With this information in hand, you’ll have no trouble getting your payments handled quickly and safely via check.
