Writing A Check
The most basic part of having a checking account is learning how to write a check. Whether you are 15 or 55 you need to know how to complete this task if you plan to have an account at the bank. Below you will learn step-by-step instructions on how to write a check.
Writing Checks (numbers will coincide with red letters above)
- Enter the date.
- Enter the name of the person or company you are paying.
- Enter, in figures, the amount of the check.
- Write the amount of the check in words, starting as far left as possible. Write amount of dollars and fractions of dollars (i.e. Ten dollars and no/100).
- For future reference, fill in why the check is being written.
- Signature
Helpful Hints
- Write in ink so nothing can be changed. Always write in black ink so your check images will be clean and concise.
- Write clearly and neatly.
- Fill in all blank lines with proper information.
- Never sign a check until all the other information on the check has been completed and you are at the bank ready to make a deposit.
Signing Checks
Before you can cash or deposit any check, you must endorse it (sign the back). Most all checks have the proper section on the back designated where you should sign.
- “Blank Endorsement” is the signature of the person to whom the check is written. After a check has been endorsed anyone can then cash the check (to ensure safety you should only endorse a check when you are prepared to make a deposit).
- “Restrictive Endorsement” states that the check is only to be deposited. On the back you may write “For Deposit Only” and sign your name under it. This is the endorsement to use when mailing a deposit to the bank.
- “Special Endorsement” makes a check payable to a third party and prevents anyone else from cashing it.
