#To write a check how to#

That will tell the person who's receiving it when you wrote it. Put the date you're writing the check in the field in the upper right corner. Always write legibly and use both numbers and letters where indicated, so there's no question about how much you want your bank to take out of your account and who it's going to. When you're filling out a check - in pen, don't forget! - take care to use each field correctly so you don't have to start over and waste checks. You'll want to record this in the check registry (more on that later) so you know which checks you're using for which transactions. This one indicates which check you're using.

This is your individual checking account. It's also the number you'll be asked for if you're using online bill pay when they ask for the routing number. This is the unique identification number for your bank. These are important because they indicate which check you're writing so you can keep track of it, as well as the account it's coming from and the bank where it's held. When you're looking at a check, there are a few numbers you'll need to know. Using a debit card instead of writing a check will also create an automatic record of your transactions, so you don't have to worry about doing that yourself. Many companies offer online bill-pay, including automatic payments so you can set it and forget it. If your check bounces, which is what happens when there isn't enough money in your account to cover it, that can lead to penalty fees from your bank or other legal concerns.Īnd if you can, consider using alternate payment methods that might be greener, not to mention save you the hassle of filling out a check and reordering more when they run out. Save yourself a headache later by first making sure you've got the funds in your account to cover the check you're writing, especially if it might be close. You know what they say: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This step-by-step guide will ensure you don't miss any.

#To write a check how to#

If you're like me and sometimes have to pause to remember how to write a check when it's time to pay rent, bills or other expenses, we're here to help. But when I do, I can still picture my dad leaning over my child-sized hands, showing me where to put each of the crucial bits of information to ensure it's filled out correctly. In the age of online bill payment systems and credit card points, I write relatively few checks these days. I still remember how proud I felt holding my very first checkbook at the ripe old age of 10.ĭecades later, my checkbook spends most of its time in my desk drawer. When our elementary school started a student-run bank to teach us about saving, we were among the first ones in line to open bank accounts so our hard-won allowance money could start earning interest. My dad was a banker when I was growing up, so he emphasized the importance of financial literacy even when my little brother and I were still at the piggy bank stage.