How to Properly Write Out Check Numbers

Quick answer

• Always write the full dollar amount numerically in the box.
• Write the full dollar amount in words on the line below the payee.
• Use “and” to separate dollars from cents, writing cents as a fraction of 100.
• Draw a line through any unused space on the “pay to the order of” line.
• Draw a line through any unused space on the written-out amount line.
• Sign the check in the designated signature line.

Who this is for

• Individuals who need to write a physical check for the first time.
• Anyone unsure about the correct way to fill out the numerical and written amounts on a check.
• People looking to avoid common errors that could lead to check rejection or fraud.

What to check first (before you act)

Goal and timeline

Before you write a check, understand why you’re writing it and when it needs to arrive. Is this for a bill due today, a gift for a future event, or a payment for a service? Knowing your timeline helps ensure you write the check correctly and allow enough time for mailing and processing, if applicable.

Current cash flow

Ensure you have sufficient funds in your checking account to cover the amount of the check. Writing a check without enough money can result in overdraft fees and damage your banking relationship. Review your account balance and any pending transactions before writing.

Emergency fund or safety buffer

While not directly related to writing the check itself, having an emergency fund is crucial. If an unexpected expense arises that depletes your checking account, a robust emergency fund can prevent you from needing to write checks you can’t cover.

Debt and interest rates

If the check is for a debt payment, confirm the exact amount due, including any late fees or interest. Writing the incorrect amount could lead to continued debt accrual or a delinquent status. Understand the interest rates on your debts to prioritize payments effectively.

Credit impact

Bounced checks or consistent overdrafts can negatively impact your credit score and your ability to open future bank accounts. Ensure your check-writing habits align with responsible financial management to protect your creditworthiness.

Step-by-step (simple workflow)

1. Locate the numerical amount box: This is typically a small box on the right side of the check, often labeled with a dollar sign ($).

• What “good” looks like: The box is clearly filled with the numerical value of the payment.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Writing the amount too small or too large, making it difficult to read. Write clearly and legibly, using the full space provided without crowding.

2. Write the numerical amount: Enter the exact dollar amount using numbers. For example, $125.50.

• What “good” looks like: The number is precise and easy to read, matching the intended value.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Misplacing the decimal point or omitting cents. Always double-check the numerical value before proceeding.

3. Locate the payee line: This is the line that says “Pay to the order of.”

• What “good” looks like: The intended recipient’s name or organization is clearly written.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Spelling the payee’s name incorrectly. Verify the correct spelling of the individual or business name.

4. Write the payee’s name: Clearly write the full name of the person or business to whom you are making the payment.

• What “good” looks like: The name is spelled correctly and is legible.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Leaving this line blank or writing an ambiguous name. This can lead to the check being cashed by the wrong person.

5. Draw a line through unused space on the payee line: After writing the payee’s name, draw a straight line from the end of the name to the edge of the check.

• What “good” looks like: The line effectively fills any remaining space, preventing anyone from adding to the payee’s name.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Forgetting to draw the line. This leaves the check vulnerable to alteration.

6. Locate the written-out amount line: This is the longer line below the payee line.

• What “good” looks like: This line will be filled with the amount written out in words.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Confusing this line with the numerical box. This is where the amount is written out.

7. Write the dollar amount in words: Write out the dollar amount using words. For example, “One hundred twenty-five.”

• What “good” looks like: The dollar portion is clearly written out.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Using abbreviations or shorthand. Write out the full words for clarity.

8. Write the cents as a fraction: After writing the dollar amount, write “and” followed by the cents written as a fraction over 100. For example, “and 50/100.”

• What “good” looks like: The cents are represented as a clear fraction, e.g., “and 50/100.”
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Writing the cents as a decimal (e.g., “point 50”). The fraction format is standard for checks.

9. Draw a line through unused space on the written-out amount line: After writing the full amount in words, draw a straight line from the end of the written amount to the end of the line.

• What “good” looks like: The line prevents any additions or alterations to the written amount.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Failing to draw the line. This is a critical security step.

10. Locate the signature line: This is usually in the bottom right corner of the check.

• What “good” looks like: Your signature is clearly visible.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Forgetting to sign the check. An unsigned check is invalid.

11. Sign the check: Sign your name as it appears on your bank’s records.

• What “good” looks like: A legible signature that matches your account’s authorized signature.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Signing with a different name or a illegible scribble. This can cause the check to be rejected.

12. Add the date: Fill in the date on the line typically in the top right corner.

• What “good” looks like: The current date is accurately recorded.
• Common mistake and how to avoid it: Leaving the date blank or using an incorrect date. This can lead to the check being post-dated or becoming stale-dated.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Incorrect payee name	Check may be rejected by the bank or cashed by the wrong person.	Verify the exact spelling of the payee’s name before writing.
Numerical and written amounts don’t match	The bank will typically honor the <em>written</em> amount, but it can cause confusion or delays.	Double-check that both the numerical and written amounts are identical before signing.
Forgetting to fill in the date	The check might be considered stale-dated or post-dated, leading to rejection.	Always fill in the current date.
Insufficient funds	Bounced check fees from your bank and the payee’s bank, potential merchant penalties.	Check your account balance before writing any check. Maintain a buffer in your account.
Unused space on payee line not crossed out	Someone could alter the payee’s name to redirect funds.	Draw a clear line from the end of the payee’s name to the edge of the check.
Unused space on written amount line not crossed out	Someone could alter the written amount, potentially increasing the value.	Draw a clear line from the end of the written amount to the end of the line.
Forgetting to sign the check	The check is invalid and will not be processed by the bank.	Always sign the check in the designated signature area.
Illegible handwriting	Can lead to misinterpretation of the amount or payee, causing rejection or fraud risk.	Write clearly and legibly. If your handwriting is consistently difficult to read, consider using a pen with a finer tip.
Writing over or erasing mistakes	Can make the check look altered, leading to rejection by the bank.	If a significant mistake is made, it’s often best to void the check and write a new one.
Using the wrong currency symbol	While less common in the US, can cause confusion if dealing with international entities.	Ensure you are using the standard “$” symbol for US dollars.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If the payee is an individual, then write their full legal name because this ensures proper identification.
• If the payee is a business, then write the exact business name as registered because this prevents confusion and ensures proper payment.
• If the numerical amount is $100.00, then the written amount should be “One hundred and 00/100” because this follows the standard format.
• If you make a mistake that cannot be easily corrected with a single line, then void the check and write a new one because attempting to fix major errors can invalidate the check.
• If you are unsure of the payee’s exact name, then ask them before writing the check because an incorrect name can cause the check to be rejected.
• If the check is for a recurring bill, then ensure the amount is correct and that you have sufficient funds, because late or incorrect payments can incur fees and damage your relationship with the service provider.
• If you are writing a check for a large sum, then double-check both the numerical and written amounts meticulously because larger amounts are more attractive targets for fraud.
• If the check is to be mailed, then fill out the date accurately because a post-dated check cannot be cashed before that date, and a stale-dated check may be rejected.
• If you are writing a check from a joint account, then ensure the signature matches the account’s authorized signatories because improper signatures can lead to rejection.
• If you are writing a check for a gift, then consider adding a memo line note like “Birthday Gift” because this can help track the purpose of the payment.
• If you are writing a check to yourself, then write “Cash” as the payee and endorse the back of the check yourself because this is a standard way to withdraw funds from your account.

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between the numerical box and the written amount line?

A: The numerical box is for the amount in digits (e.g., $125.50), while the written line is for the amount in words (e.g., “One hundred twenty-five and 50/100”). The written amount is legally binding if there’s a discrepancy.

Q: Can I use abbreviations on the written amount line?

A: No, it’s best to write out the full words for the dollar amount and use the fraction for cents. Abbreviations can lead to confusion or rejection.

Q: What if I make a small mistake, like a misspelled word?

A: For minor errors, you might be able to correct it with a single line through the mistake and the correct text written next to it, followed by your initials. However, for significant errors, it’s safer to void the check.

Q: What does it mean to “void” a check?

A: Voiding a check means you write “VOID” clearly across the front of the check in large letters. This renders the check unusable and prevents it from being cashed.

Q: How do I write out a check for a whole dollar amount, like $50?

A: You would write “Fifty and 00/100” on the written line. The “and 00/100” signifies that there are no cents.

Q: Should I use a pen or a pencil to write a check?

A: Always use a pen, preferably in blue or black ink. Pencils can be erased, making the check vulnerable to alteration.

Q: What is a “stale-dated” check?

A: A stale-dated check is one that has passed its validity period, typically six months from the date written. Banks are not obligated to honor stale-dated checks.

Q: What is a “post-dated” check?

A: A post-dated check has a future date written on it. While legally, banks may still cash it before the date, it’s generally considered a courtesy not to cash it until that date.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• How to endorse a check (signing the back to deposit or cash it).
• The process of depositing a check into your bank account.
• Understanding bank routing numbers and account numbers.
• How to order new checks from your bank or a third-party vendor.
• The specifics of bounced check laws and fees in your state.