How to Write a Check

The following is a step by step guide on How to Write a Check

While it may seem a simple thing to most people, some actually do not know how to write a check in a world where paying bills online and ATM machines are the norm. In some instances, it may be necessary to write a check; for example, you don't have any cash with you, nor do you have a credit card to pay for products or services. In this scenario, it will come in handy if you know how to write a check.

The process is extremely easy, and takes just a minute. It is a good idea to know how to do it, just in case you should ever need to use a check to make a payment.

How to write a check

1. Write the check out to the payee. In the field where the check says "Pay to the order of", fill in the blank with the name of the person or company you are paying. Most bills state who to make the check payable to.

2. Date the check. On the upper right-hand side of the check, you will see a field that says "date". Here is where you will write the current date in any format you like, just make sure it is legible.

3. Fill in the numerical dollar amount. In the small box directly to the right of the line where you fill in who you are paying, write the numerical dollar amount of the check, and make sure it is legible. For example, this amount may be $24.63. Make sure it contains both the dollar and cents values.

4. Write out the dollar amount in long-hand. On the long line directly below the "Pay to the order of" field, write out the amount of the check and then draw a line to fill up the entire space. For example, $24.63 would be written out as: Twenty-four dollars and ----------------63/100.

5. Sign your name at the bottom of the check. In the lower right-hand area of the check, there is a blank where you sign your name. Sign it as you would an official document, making sure it is legible.

6. Use the "memo" blank to record important information. At the lower left-hand corner of the check is an area labeled "memo" or "notes". While this is often left blank, it is a good idea to put your account number in the blank if you are paying a bill. This way, if the remittance advice that is often sent along with a bill gets lost, the recipient will know what account number to apply the payment to.

7. Record your check. In the "register" section of your checkbook, record the date, who the check was written to, and the amount of the check in the "debit" column, then subtract the amount from the balance so that you will have a new and correct balance.

While it may look like there is a great deal involved in writing a check, it really only takes a minute or two. The tips above will help you understand how to write a check, so that the process is an easy one should you ever have to use it.