How to write a check?

Once considered a sophisticated form of payment, bank checks have had to give way to other forms of payment that are more convenient and easier to use.

However, you may at some point have to use one for a gift or pay at a site that only accepts this form of payment. That's why it's important to know how to fill it out and keep track of it, whether it's a standard check, a certified check or a cashier's check.

In this step-by-step guide on how to fill out a bank check, we explain all the relevant aspects you should keep in mind during this procedure:

Note the check number

Located in the upper right hand corner is a series of digits that identify the check. This is used to tell the bank which one you are using and to keep track of it. In case you need to stop payment, you will need to know what the number is.

Sometimes people are concerned about using the same check number more than once. This can happen when you apply for a new checkbook and forget where you ended up with the old one.

This situation could cause you to repeat the number, which can be problematic if something happens to the payment.

Indicate who it is addressed to

In the section that says "Pay to the order of" or "Pay to", is where you are going to put the name of the recipient of the check, which can be a person or a company. When you are asked to write it in the name of "cash", you must keep in mind that anyone can cash it.

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It is always good to ask to whom it is addressed and write the name correctly to avoid an uncomfortable situation or a returned check fee. In this sense, avoid using the famous abbreviations to save problems to the person who will withdraw the money.

Write down the date

Just to the left of the number is the section that says "Date". That's where you are going to put the date corresponding to when you want it to be charged. It can be the same day, a week later or even several months later.

Postdating a check is used with someone you know and when you don't have funds yet. In our experience, many people make mistakes with the date because they are not attentive or because they get confused with the U.S. formula: month/day/year.

Writing the amount in letters

As easy as it sounds, this part is where people often get more complicated when filling out a bank check. This section is just below where it says "Pay to" and you have to write the amount to be paid. The basic rule of thumb is to put it just as it sounds. If it is $1,250, it would be: "one thousand two hundred fifty".

Don't worry about the hyphen (between 21 and 99), because many banks don't care if you put it in or not.

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When it comes to cents, you have to use a fraction. That is, if the amount is $0.75, it is written as 75/100. We also recommend that you get used to putting the "and" before the cents. For example, with the figure $3,150.45, you would write "three thousand one hundred and fifty and 45/100".

Putting the amount to be paid in numbers

On the right side of the "Pay to the order of" section is where you are going to put the amount in numbers. This should be straightforward, but remember to use commas and periods correctly. The commas to separate the thousands and the dot for the decimals or cents.

Since the box has a dollar sign, you don't need to place it.

Fill in the reminder (optional)

In the lower left corner there is a line called "Memo". This section to remind the person what the bank check is for. The suggestion is that you do not try to write but rather keep the message clear and simple.

Sometimes the recipient may ask you to put the invoice number or your checking account number.

Signing the bank check

The signature is considered the most important part of the check because without it, the recipient will not be able to cash it. In addition, not including it makes the check invalid and many sites charge you an additional fee for this circumstance.

In fact, there are many stores that do not accept checks that are not signed. That's why you have to be attentive when you are going to give one to someone who isn't paying or when you are going to send it by mail. Although it may seem trivial, many people forget to sign.

Keeping track

Finally, it's important to write down the amount you paid and the purpose of the check. This way you can track your expenses in more detail and better manage your personal finances.

Knowing how to write a bank check has its subtleties, you must be attentive when using this way of payment. That's why at Busconómico we want you to be aware of not making mistakes due to ignorance and to manage your personal finances wisely.

Español: Cómo rellenar un cheque bancario