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Today writing paper checks have become less common than before. But they are still used by many people. They are an effective way to move money. That is why for moving large cash amounts people write checks. Have you ever written a check? If not, you may need some help to write it. That is why we have offered a guide here to help you. You can learn How to write a check here. There are some things you have to take care of when you write a check. Therefore, look at the step-by-step guide of writing a check. Then you can easily write it whenever you require.
Overview Of the Check
There are some aspects in the check that makes it complete. Here are some of the things you can find in a check. Knowing about this will help you know how to fill out a check. Therefore, let’s begin.
1. Current Date
You will find the current date column at the top right-hand corner of the check. If you are writing a check then you have to put the current date. Also writing the date will help you keep your records straight. Some people even postdate the check.
2. Payee
There will be a line in the check that says “Pay to the order of,”. In this column, you have to write the name of the organization you are going to pay. Also, this information has to be accurate because you have to take care to fill in the correct name of the organization.
3. Cash Amount in Numeric
The amount of the payment must be written in the numeric form in the box provided in the check. You can start writing as far as to the left as possible. Further, the way you write your amount can help you to prevent fraud.
4. Amount In Words
There is also a column in the check where you have to write the amount in words. This is also available in the check to prevent fraud. Also, the amount you wrote in words will be taken as the real amount if someone changes the numeric amount. Take care to write the amount in capital letters. For instance, if you are going to pay $130.45 write this amount in numeric and then in words. Also in words, you can write this amount as “one hundred thirty and 45/100.” In this way, you can write a check with cents by putting the cents amount over by a hundred.
5. Signature
You have to sign the check legibly in the place provided in the bottom-right corner. Make sure to use the same signature you use in the bank.
6. Memo
This is a place where you can add a note and it is an optional column. For instance, some people write their social security number or other details. So even if the check gets misplaced the payee can contact you.
Tips On How To Fill Out a Check
If you are writing a check then make sure that it is used in the way you intended it. This is because some people can misuse the check for their own benefit. That is why be careful to put all the information in the boxes provided that will leave no place for fraud. Here are some other safety tips you can follow when writing a check.
1. Permanent Ink
You have to use a pen whenever you write a check. Use a pen that has waterproof ink so the amount will not smudge. Also, it will be hard to change the amount if you use a pen.
2. Stop Writing Blank Checks
You must not sign a check before writing the payee details and amount. A signed check is like a gold rush for thieves. That is why fill in all the details first and then sign.
3. Use Carbon Copies
If you want to have a record of all the checks you write then buy a carbon copy checkbook. Therefore, whenever you write a check you will instantly have a record of it with you.
4. Unchanging Signature
Many people do not have a consistent signature. But if you have started to write checks then it is time for you to have an unchanging signature. Then it will be easy for you to write legible checks without any issues.
Conclusion
This guide will help you to write checks with ease. Therefore, learn to write checks with this guide and be careful to follow all the safety points.
Also Read: Questions to Ask Before Getting a Credit Card
