How to write a check in 6 easy steps

If you can’t remember the last time you opened your checkbook, you’re not alone. With debit cards, credit cards, online banking and direct deposit, paper checks can seem like a thing of the past. 

But writing checks can still be useful, if not required, sometimes. So if you need to write a check and find yourself wondering how to properly fill out each field, use this guide. 

What you’ll learn:

• Checks generally come with preprinted information like the account holder’s name and address and the check number, account number and routing number. 

• To write a check, you’ll need to fill in information about the recipient, date and amount, plus add your signature and an optional memo. 

• Remember to write neatly, in pen, double-check everything and avoid signing a blank check.

The parts of a check include preprinted information and empty fields, which you’ll need to complete each time you write a check. 

Preprinted information typically includes:

• Account holder’s name and information: The name and address—and sometimes phone number—of the checking account holder linked to the check are usually printed in the upper left corner.

• Check number: The check number is typically in the top and bottom right corners of the check. It can help account holders keep track of how many checks they’ve used. 

• Bank routing number and account number: The routing number and account number are a series of numbers usually on the bottom of the check, with the routing number on the left side.

The rest of the empty fields are used to write out a check. These include the following:

• Date 
• “Pay to the order of” line for the recipient
• Dollar amount in numbers
• Dollar amount in words 
• Memo line
• Signature line

It’s important to fill out your check accurately and without mistakes. Filling out one improperly might hold up the payment process. And any delays could result in past due fees for certain bills.

Make sure your check reflects the current date—and write it in the top right corner. The month can be written as a number or by name (e.g., “5” or “May”).

Backdating a check occurs when a previous date is used. It’s typically not allowed, and it may even be illegal in some situations. 

A postdated check, which has a future date, might be legal in some instances, but it could be deposited before the date listed on the check. And that can result in a bounced check or an overdraft fee if you don’t have enough funds in the account.

The field for the recipient, or payee, usually begins with “Pay to the order of.” Make sure this field is filled out correctly with the recipient’s full name. Incorrectly spelling the name of the person, organization or business—or leaving off part of a payee’s name—could result in your check being returned.

If you’re not certain of the recipient’s exact name, you could make it payable to “Cash.” However, if the check gets lost, anyone can cash it.

Write the amount of your check numerically in dollars and cents in the small box to the right of the recipient’s name. The dollar sign is preprinted, so you don’t need to write one in. Write in numbers large enough to fill the entire space to help prevent check fraud.

When writing the amount, use a decimal point to separate dollars from cents, even if it’s a full dollar amount (e.g., 100.00). And don’t forget to add any necessary commas for figures exceeding $1,000.

In the larger field directly below the recipient’s name that ends with the word “dollars,” write out the dollar amount in words. For example, if the amount of the check is $1,000, write “One thousand.” 

To include the cents, use a fraction with “100” on the bottom. So if the check amount is $44.99, write “Forty-four and 99/100.” Even if the dollar amount has no cents, it’s typically best to include a “00/100” for clarity. For example, if you’re writing a check for $1,500, write out “One thousand, five hundred and 00/100.”

When writing out the dollar amount in words, write the amount as far to the left as you can. Then draw a line through any remaining space to the right of the amount listed. That will help ensure the entire field is full, which can help prevent someone from changing the amount of the check.

Filling in a check’s memo line may not be required, but it can be helpful to write what the check is for. If the check is for a specific month’s rent or a particular service you’ve received, you can list that in the memo field. You might also put the invoice number there if you’re paying a bill.

Lastly, you’ll sign the check on the line in the bottom right corner. Your signature is one of the most important parts of a check. Without it, your check generally can’t be cashed or deposited.

Before you write a check, here are a few tips to consider:

• Use a pen. By writing the check with a pen, you may reduce the risk of someone altering the check or changing the amount of money you’re paying someone.

• Write legibly. Print is often easier to read than cursive. Write in print on each blank field, except your signature field, so the person cashing or depositing the check can read it clearly. This may reduce errors and could help you avoid payment delays. 

• Don’t sign a blank check. Fill in the name of the recipient and the amount before signing. Doing so may reduce the risk of check fraud.

• Double-check your work. Ensure everything is correct before you submit the check.

Now that you know how to write a check, here are answers to a few additional questions you might have:

Checks might not be as popular as they used to be, but knowing how to write one can be helpful. And keeping a checkbook handy can be a good idea in case you need to fill out a check for bills or other expenses.