Category: Quick Guide / Money & Budgeting

⚡ How to Write and Deposit Checks

Checks are used less often than they once were, but you may still need one to pay rent, make a large purchase, pay a business, or receive money. Writing and depositing a check is straightforward once you know what each section means.

Before Writing a Check

Make sure:

• There is enough money in your checking account.
• You know the correct name of the person or business being paid.
• You have the correct payment amount.
• You use a pen with permanent blue or black ink.
• You record the payment so you do not accidentally spend the money twice.

A check may not leave your account immediately. Keep enough money available until it clears.

How to Write a Check

Complete every required section clearly.

1. Write the date

Enter the current date on the line near the upper-right corner.

Example: August 17, 2026

Avoid postdating a check unless you understand your bank’s policies. A bank may process it before the date written on it.

2. Write the recipient’s name

On the line that says Pay to the Order of, write the full name of the person or business receiving the money.

Example: Long Island Electric Company

Ask the recipient how the name should be written if you are unsure. Do not leave this line blank.

3. Write the payment amount in numbers

Enter the amount in the small box.

Example: $82.45

Write close to the dollar sign so no one can add extra numbers.

4. Write the payment amount in words

Write the dollar amount in words on the long line below the recipient’s name.

Example:

Eighty-two and 45/100 ————————— dollars

Use a fraction for the cents. Draw a line through any unused space so nothing can be added.

5. Complete the memo line

Use the memo line to identify the reason for the payment.

Examples:

• August rent
• Account 12345
• Birthday gift
• Invoice 208

Avoid writing sensitive information such as your Social Security number.

6. Sign the check

Sign the bottom-right line using the same general signature you use for your bank account.

Do not sign a blank check. Your signature authorizes the bank to pay the money.

Before Giving the Check to Someone

Check that:

• The date is correct.
• The recipient’s name is correct.
• The numerical and written amounts match.
• The memo contains any required account or invoice number.
• You signed the check.
• You recorded the payment.

If the numerical and written amounts differ, the bank may rely on the written amount or reject the check.

Record the Payment

Record the check in your check register, banking app, budgeting system, or personal records.

Include:

• Check number
• Date
• Recipient
• Payment amount
• Reason for the payment

Subtract the amount from your available balance, even if it has not appeared in your account yet.

Correcting a Mistake

Do not scribble over the mistake or use correction fluid.

Instead:

1. Write VOID across the front of the check.
2. Record the check as voided.
3. Keep or destroy it securely.
4. Write a new check.

Never give someone a voided check unless it is specifically requested for a legitimate purpose, such as setting up direct deposit or an electronic payment.

How to Endorse a Check

Before depositing or cashing a check you received, you may need to endorse it.

1. Turn the check over.
2. Find the endorsement area on the back.
3. Sign your name as it appears on the front.
4. Keep your writing inside the endorsement area.

Wait to endorse the check until you are ready to deposit it. A signed check may be easier for another person to misuse if it is lost.

For extra protection, your bank may allow you to write:

For deposit only

You may also need to include your account number or the words For mobile deposit only, depending on the bank’s instructions.

Ways to Deposit a Check

Mobile deposit

Many banking apps allow you to deposit a check with your phone.

1. Open your bank’s official app.
2. Select mobile check deposit.
3. Choose the correct account.
4. Enter the check amount.
5. Endorse the back as instructed.
6. Place the check on a flat, well-lit surface.
7. Photograph the front and back.
8. Review the information and submit it.
9. Save the confirmation.

Keep the paper check in a secure place until the bank confirms that the deposit was accepted and completed. Then destroy it securely according to your bank’s instructions.

Do not attempt to deposit the same check again.

ATM deposit

1. Use an ATM that accepts deposits for your bank.
2. Insert or tap your card and enter your PIN privately.
3. Select Deposit.
4. Choose the correct account.
5. Insert the check as directed.
6. Verify the amount.
7. Take the receipt and your card.

Bank or credit union

Bring the check to a branch with:

• A completed deposit slip, if required
• Your account information
• Identification
• Your bank card, if requested

A bank employee can help you complete the deposit.

After Depositing a Check

A deposited check may not be available immediately.

• Save the receipt or confirmation.
• Check your account for the pending deposit.
• Look for the completed deposit later.
• Do not spend the money until it is available.
• Contact the bank if the deposit is rejected or the amount is incorrect.

Your bank’s funds-availability policy explains when deposited money can be used.

Watch for Fake-Check Scams

A check appearing in your account does not always mean it is legitimate. A fraudulent check can be reversed later—even after the bank initially makes the money available.

Be suspicious when someone:

• Sends you more money than expected.
• Asks you to return part of the money.
• Tells you to purchase gift cards.
• Asks you to send money to someone else.
• Pressures you to act before the check clears.
• Sends a check for a prize, job, or purchase you did not expect.

Do not send money based on a check from someone you do not trust. Contact your bank if you are uncertain.

Quick Checklist

Writing a check

• Confirm sufficient money is available.
• Write the date.
• Enter the recipient’s complete name.
• Write the amount in numbers.
• Write the amount in words.
• Add a helpful memo.
• Sign the check.
• Record the payment.

Depositing a check

• Confirm the check is made payable to you.
• Endorse it only when ready to deposit.
• Follow your bank’s deposit instructions.
• Save the receipt or confirmation.
• Wait for the funds to become available.
• Destroy the check securely after a completed mobile deposit.

Remember

A check is connected directly to your checking account. Complete it carefully, keep blank checks secure, record every payment, and never send money in response to a suspicious check.