How to Write a Check
Learn how to write a check correctly in 6 easy steps. Avoid common mistakes with our examples for any dollar amount.
Writing a check may seem straightforward, but small mistakes can cause big headaches — a returned payment, a bounced check fee, or even fraud. Whether you're paying rent, writing a gift check, or settling a bill, filling out a check correctly the first time saves you time and protects your money.
Checks are legal financial instruments, and every field serves a purpose. The date establishes when the check was written, the payee line tells the bank who can cash it, and the amount in both numeric and written form must match exactly. A discrepancy between the two can cause the check to be rejected.
This guide walks you through each field on a personal check, explains what to write and why, and provides realistic examples for common dollar amounts. We also cover how to void a check safely.
First National Bank
Member FDIC
① DATE
MM/DD/YYYY or spelled out
③ AMOUNT
Full legal name of person or business
Legally binding if it conflicts with the number box
⑤ MEMO (optional)
Note for your records or the payee
⑥ SIGNATURE
Required — use ink pen, match bank signature
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Write the Date
In the top-right corner of the check, write today's date in the date field. Use the standard format: Month/Day/Year (e.g., 03/18/2026) or spell out the month (e.g., March 18, 2026). Either format is acceptable. Avoid post-dating a check (writing a future date) unless you have confirmed with the recipient that they will hold it — most banks will cash a check regardless of the date written on it.
Tip:Write the full four-digit year (2026, not '26) to prevent alteration.
- 2
Fill in "Pay to the Order Of"
Write the full name of the person or business you are paying on the "Pay to the Order of" line. For an individual, use their legal name (e.g., "Jane A. Smith"). For a business, use the official business name exactly as they request it (e.g., "City Water Utility" or "Dr. Robert Chen, DDS"). Do not use nicknames or abbreviations unless the recipient has specifically instructed you to.
Tip:If you are unsure of the exact name, call the recipient before writing the check. A mismatched name can cause delays at the bank.
- 3
Write the Amount in the Number Box
In the small box to the right of the payee line (often labeled "$"), write the dollar amount in numerals. Start writing as far to the left of the box as possible to prevent anyone from adding digits before your number. Include cents as a decimal: write $500.00, not $500. For $1,250.43, write 1,250.43 in the box.
Tip:Draw a line or fill remaining space in the box after your number if there is extra room.
- 4
Write the Amount in Words on the Dollar Line
On the long line below the payee line, write out the dollar amount in words, then express cents as a fraction over 100. For $500.00, write "Five hundred and 00/100". For $1,250.43, write "One thousand two hundred fifty and 43/100". The written amount is the legally binding figure if it conflicts with the numeric box — so double-check that both match.
Tip:After writing the amount in words, draw a horizontal line from the end of your text to the word "Dollars" at the right side of the line. This prevents anyone from adding words.
- 5
Fill in the Memo Line (Optional but Recommended)
The memo line in the bottom-left corner is optional, but it is useful for your own records and can help the recipient apply the payment correctly. Write a brief note such as "July Rent – Apt 4B", "Invoice #1042", or "Birthday gift". For payments to a doctor or utility company, include your account number so they can credit the correct account.
Tip:Never leave the memo line blank on checks to unfamiliar businesses. A note creates a paper trail.
- 6
Sign the Check
Sign your name in cursive on the signature line in the bottom-right corner. Use the same signature associated with your bank account. A check without a signature is invalid and will be returned. Review all fields before signing — once signed, the check is a legal obligation.
Tip:Always use an ink pen (not pencil) to sign. Blue or black ink is standard. Never sign a blank check.
Examples
Paying Rent: $500.00
Writing a check to your landlord for $500 flat. Date the check on the first of the month.
Date: March 1, 2026 Pay to the Order of: Greenwood Property Management $ (box): 500.00 Amount in words: Five hundred and 00/100 ——————————————— Dollars Memo: March 2026 Rent – Unit 12 Signature: [Your Signature]
Contractor Payment: $1,250.43
Paying a contractor for completed work including materials. Cents are included.
Date: March 18, 2026 Pay to the Order of: Harper Home Repairs LLC $ (box): 1,250.43 Amount in words: One thousand two hundred fifty and 43/100 ————— Dollars Memo: Invoice #2241 – kitchen faucet repair & parts Signature: [Your Signature]
Birthday Gift Check: $75.00
Writing a personal check as a birthday gift to a family member.
Date: March 18, 2026 Pay to the Order of: Emily R. Torres $ (box): 75.00 Amount in words: Seventy-five and 00/100 ——————————————————— Dollars Memo: Happy Birthday! Signature: [Your Signature]
Tips & Best Practices
Do
- Always use a ballpoint pen with blue or black ink — never pencil.
- Write as far left as possible in both the number box and amount line to prevent alteration.
- Draw a line after the written amount to fill any empty space before 'Dollars'.
- Record every check in your check register or banking app immediately.
- To void a check: write VOID in large capital letters across the entire face of the check, then write VOID again in the signature box.
- Store voided checks in a secure location or shred them — never throw them in the trash.
- Post-dated checks are not legally protected in most states; banks can cash them early.
- If you make an error, write VOID across the check and start fresh on a new check.
Don’t
- Never sign a blank check or pre-fill all fields except the payee.
- Do not fold or staple a check — it can cause scanning issues at the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I make a mistake on a check?
Do not try to scratch out or white-out an error. Write VOID in large letters across the entire face of the check and write a new one. Banks will typically reject checks with corrections.
How do I write cents on a check?
Express cents as a fraction over 100 on the written amount line. For $45.67, write "Forty-five and 67/100". In the number box, write 45.67. For a whole dollar amount like $200, write "Two hundred and 00/100" and 200.00 in the box.
How long is a check valid?
Most personal checks are valid for 180 days (6 months) from the date written. After that, banks may refuse to cash them. Some checks, like government checks, have different expiration windows noted on the check itself.
Can I write a check with no cents?
Yes. Simply write the full dollar amount followed by "and 00/100" on the written line, and write the amount with .00 in the numeric box (e.g., 350.00).
What does it mean to void a check?
Voiding a check makes it unusable for payment. Write VOID in large capital letters across the front of the check — including the signature line. Voided checks are commonly required for direct deposit setup, as they provide routing and account numbers without risking the check being cashed.