How To Write Out A Check Amount: A Comprehensive Guide

Let’s face it, even in the digital age, checks still exist. Whether it’s for paying rent, reimbursing a friend, or making a donation, knowing how to write out a check amount correctly is a crucial skill. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you can confidently fill out a check and avoid any potential errors. We’ll cover everything from the numerical amount to the written-out amount and even some helpful tips to prevent fraud.

Understanding the Basics: What You Need Before You Start

Before you even touch the pen, make sure you have the right tools and information. This includes:

• A Check: Obviously! Ensure the check is from your own account.
• A Pen: Use a pen with permanent ink. Black or blue ink is the standard. Avoid using pencils, erasable pens, or felt-tip pens.
• The Payee: Know the exact name of the person or business you are paying.
• The Amount: Know the exact dollar amount you need to pay.
• The Date: The current date.

Step-by-Step Guide: Filling Out the Numerical Amount

This is the first and arguably easiest part of the process, but it’s important to get it right.

The Dollar Sign and Numbers

Locate the box or space on the check labeled with a dollar sign ($). This is where you’ll write the numerical amount.

• Write the amount as clearly as possible, using the appropriate decimal points. For example, if you are writing a check for $125.75, you would write “125.75” in the box.
• Avoid leaving any extra space before or after the numbers. This helps prevent someone from fraudulently altering the amount.

Mastering the Written Amount: The Crucial Part

This is where many people stumble. Writing out the amount in words is critical, as it’s the amount that the bank will typically honor in case of a discrepancy.

Converting Numbers to Words

This can seem daunting at first, but it becomes easy with practice. Here’s a breakdown:

• Dollars: Start with the dollar amount. For $125.75, you’d begin with “One hundred twenty-five.”
• And: After the dollar amount, add the word “and.” This separates the dollars from the cents.
• Cents: Write out the cent amount as a fraction over 100. For $125.75, you’d write “Seventy-five/100.”
• Important Formatting: Use capital letters for the first word and capitalize each word that represents a unit of currency (i.e., dollar, cent).
• Example: For $125.75, the written amount would be: “One hundred twenty-five and 75/100.”

Filling the Line: Preventing Alteration

The line provided for writing out the amount is usually quite long. Fill the entire line with your words. This helps prevent someone from adding extra words or numbers and altering the amount. After you write the amount, draw a solid line from the end of the words to the word “Dollars” at the end of the line. This leaves no room for modification.

Other Important Check Details: Date, Payee, and Memo

Don’t neglect the other sections of the check.

The Date

Write the current date in the designated space. Most checks have a space for the month, day, and year. The date is essential for the check to be valid.

The Payee

Write the full and correct name of the person or business you are paying on the line labeled “Pay to the order of.”

The Memo Line

The “Memo” line is optional, but it is good practice to include a brief description of the payment. This could be an invoice number, the purpose of the payment (e.g., “Rent for April”), or anything that helps you remember what the check was for.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Check

Preventing errors is vital. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Incorrect Spelling: Double-check the payee’s name and the amount you’re writing out. Spelling errors can cause delays or rejection.
• Illegible Handwriting: Write clearly and legibly. If your handwriting is difficult to read, it could lead to confusion.
• Leaving Blank Spaces: Fill in all spaces completely to prevent fraud.
• Using the Wrong Pen: Always use permanent ink.
• Forgetting to Sign the Check: A check is not valid without a signature.

Security Measures: Protecting Yourself From Fraud

Check fraud is a real threat. Take these steps to protect yourself:

• Use a Secure Pen: As mentioned before, use a pen with permanent ink.
• Keep Your Checks Secure: Store your checkbook in a safe place.
• Review Your Bank Statements: Regularly check your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.
• Consider a Check-Writing Service: If you write a lot of checks, consider using a check-writing service, which can help automate the process and provide additional security features.

Troubleshooting: What to Do If You Make a Mistake

Mistakes happen! Here’s how to handle them:

• Minor Mistakes: If you make a small error, you can typically correct it by crossing it out neatly and initialing the correction.
• Significant Errors: If you make a significant error, it’s best to void the check. Write “VOID” in large letters across the front of the check and then write a new one. Keep the voided check for your records.
• Record Keeping: Always keep a record of your checks, including the date, payee, amount, and memo, either in your check register or using digital tools.

Advanced Techniques: Writing Large Amounts and Unusual Scenarios

Occasionally, you may need to write a check for a large amount or in an unusual situation.

Writing Checks for Large Amounts

When writing a check for a significant amount, be extra careful. Double-check all the information and consider using a check-writing service for added security.

Dealing With Cents Under One Dollar

When the amount is only in cents, the beginning should be: “Zero and [Cents]/100”. For example, if the check is for $0.50 it should read, “Zero and 50/100.”

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify any lingering uncertainties.

What if the numerical and written amounts don’t match?

The bank will usually honor the written amount, as it is considered the more secure and official representation of the payment. Always double-check both amounts before submitting the check.

Can I use a different currency besides US dollars?

No. Checks are generally intended to be used in the currency of the account they’re drawn from. If you need to make a payment in a different currency, you’ll have to use a different payment method, such as a wire transfer or an international money order.

Is there a time limit on how long a check is valid?

Yes, most checks are valid for six months from the date they were written. After this time, the check is considered stale and the bank may not honor it.

What should I do if I lose a check?

Contact your bank immediately to report the lost check and request a stop-payment order. This will prevent anyone from cashing the check.

Can I use a check to pay someone online?

No, you can’t directly pay someone online with a check. You’ll need to find an alternative payment method.

Conclusion: Confidently Using Checks

Writing a check amount correctly is a fundamental skill, ensuring you can make payments securely and accurately. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide – from understanding the basics and converting numbers to words, to avoiding common mistakes and implementing security measures – you can confidently navigate the process. Remember to be meticulous with the details, use permanent ink, and fill in all the spaces completely. With practice, writing checks will become second nature, and you’ll be able to handle this task with ease.