Yes, we understand that writing checks is not rocket science, but it is an activity that necessitates sound knowledge. When was the last time you wrote someone a check? Did you enter every detail correctly, from the date to the payee’s name, to the rupees, to the signature? If yes, congratulations! Because you are one of the few people who can execute this not-so-complicated task correctly.
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However, if you have failed to write the check without making a mistake, taking the help of another person, or Googling, you should read this blog all the way through. Remember how to print your own cheque with that necessitates technical knowledge, it is a useful skill to have.
In this blog, we will learn how to write a check with an example, the steps to follow while writing checks, how to record the payment in your check register, and tips for writing checks without. Let’s start with a step-by-step guide to writing checks.
How To Write A Check: A Step-by-step Guide
First and foremost, get a thought in your mind that writing checks is a simple task. All you have to do is move from one step to the next in the order listed below, without skipping any. Also, to avoid skipping or missing any fields, we recommend working from top to bottom. Here, it’s also worth noting that the majority of countries around the world have very similar check designs with no or minor differences.
Begin writing checks by following the steps below:
Step 1: Enter The Current Date
In the given field, write the current date. This column appears in the top-right corner of the majority of the checks. Moreover, there are current dated checks as well as post-dated checks. For example, if the issuing date is 01/07/2021 and the current date is also 01/07/2021, it is referred to as a current-dated check, whereas a post-dated check is one written by the drawer for a future date. Overall, make certain that you enter the correct date.
Step 2: Write The Recipient’s Name (Payee Name)
After you’ve written the date, scroll down to find the text “Pay to the order of” or simply “Pay” followed by a blank line. Here, you must write the name of the person or organization to whom you are issuing the check. Make certain that you enter the recipient’s exact name without any typos or misspellings. If you are unsure or have doubts about the payee’s name, contact and confirm with the concerned party once.
Step 3: Write The Amount In Words
The 3rd step when writing checks is to enter the amount in words. After you’ve written the date and payee name, scroll down to find the text “Rupees.” Enter the amount you’re paying the recipient in words in this field. For example, if you are paying 10,000 Rs, fill in the field with “Ten Thousands Only.” Remember to end the text with “Only,” as this will prevent it from being edited or modified by the fraudsters.
Step 4: Write The Amount In Numbers
Proceed to the 4th step in the check-writing process: write the amount in numerals. Next to the “Amount in Words” field, there will be a rectangular box. In this field, you must enter the same amount that you have written in words or going to pay to the recipient. Also, make sure that the amount in words and the amount in numerals do not differ.
Besides, make certain that there is no space between the currency symbol and the amount and that the “/-” sign is added at the end of the amount. For example, if you are paying $10,000, ensure that there is no space between $ and 1. Additionally, to prevent the amount from being altered or manipulated by scammers, add the “/-” sign at the end, i.e., $10,000/-.
Step 5: Write A Memo
The fifth step in writing checks is to enter the memo details. There may be a memo box or a memo text field at the bottom-left corner of the check. This field allows you to enter remarks such as why you are paying this check or other details that will serve as a reference for you in the future if you forget why you issued that specific check. For example, if you’re paying your electricity bill for June, simply write “Electricity June Payment” in a memo box.
However, it is important to note that entering the information in the memo box is optional and has no impact on the banking process. The field exists solely for your convenience in recording the reason for issuing the check.
Step 6: Sign The Check
So you’ve filled out the check with all of the necessary information. The final step in the writing checks process is to sign the check. The signature field appears at the right bottom of the majority of checks. Make sure you sign the same way you did on your account application or any other banking document. In a nutshell, your signature must be consistent throughout the banking documents because the bank will only validate and process the check if it matches your submitted signature.
When the check is signed, it is ready to be issued to the intended recipient. However, before you submit it, take a quick look at every detail and double-check it. Also, once issued, it is recommended that you record your payment and make the check entry into your diary/notebook or accounting software you are using.
Why And How Should You Record Payments In Your Check Register?
The following are some of the reasons why you should keep track of every check payment you make. With the help of payment software.
- Your register reveals the types of purchases made by your company and can assist you in making necessary budget adjustments.
- A register will come in handy if you forget why you paid a certain amount or issued that check. You will have information about the check since the reason or remarks have been added to the check register.
- The check register also helps you keep track of your checks, ensuring that none of them go missing.
- A check register will also help you detect fraud and identity theft in your account.
- Enter all of the information, including the check number, issued date, amount, and reason for payment.
Now, let’s look at some of the best tips for writing checks.
Tips For Writing Checks That You MUST Follow
- Make certain that you enter all of the information correctly and without any typos or errors while writing checks.
- Don’t sign blank checks. Fill in the amount box and the name of the person or organization to whom you are making the payment.
- While writing checks, always use a pen rather than a pencil because a pencil will make it easier for fraudsters to edit or erase the details.
- Maintain consistency in your signature. Don’t change your signature too frequently. Make the same signature on every check, the same as you did on the application form or all documents.
- Print the values correctly. Make certain that you write the amount properly, with no space between the currency sign and the first digit of the amount, and that you end the amount with a “/-“symbol.
- Avoid addressing a check to cash. Issuing a check to “Cash” is risky, as it is equivalent to carrying the same amount of cash in your pocket. Instead, withdraw money from an ATM.
- Keep calm while you write checks. Writing checks in a hurry can cost you a lot. Don’t change or edit the amount because doing so will make it easier for fraudsters to take advantage of it.
- Before submitting the check, double-check all of the details and entries. The process will take no more than 15 seconds, but it could save you a lot of money.
- Make a note of the payment in the register of the accounting software you’re using or in the notebook.
These are the check-writing tips that everyone should follow to avoid being robbed or becoming a victim of banking crimes. Also, we hope that all of the information provided above, such as a step-by-step guide to writing checks, why to record the payment in a check register and check writing tips, will help you level up your check writing skills.
The Bottom Line
Although check writing is not rocket science, it is a necessary skill that we should all possess. Writing checks is a simple and quick task, but it requires some basic knowledge to avoid becoming a victim of fraud. Make sure you enter all of the information correctly and go from top to bottom. Also, don’t forget to record the payment in the check register once it’s been issued.
Paras Kela is a highly skilled SaaS content writer with over 7 years of experience in the IT field. His expertise lies in simplifying complex technical concepts for easy comprehension. With a portfolio of over 100 high-quality blogs covering various SaaS topics, Paras’s writing style is engaging, informative, and SEO-friendly, ensuring maximum effectiveness. He continuously updates his skills and knowledge to stay current with industry trends, making his writing relevant and reliable.
