Guide

How to void a check.

Voiding a check makes it unusable while keeping the bank details on it readable. You do it when you've made a mistake on a check, or when an employer or company asks for a voided check to set up direct deposit or automatic payments.

Updated October 18, 2026 · The SimpleChex Team

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Voiding a paper check in four steps

1
Use a pen
Blue or black ink. Pencil can be erased, which defeats the purpose.
2
Write VOID across the front
In large letters across the middle of the check, through the payee, amount and signature areas. Don't sign it.
3
Keep the bottom line readable
Don't write over the numbers along the bottom. If the voided check is for direct deposit, the company needs to read your routing and account numbers.
4
Record it
Note the check number as void in your register or software so your records don't show a gap or a missing payment.

Voided checks for direct deposit and autopay

Employers, payroll providers and some billers ask for a voided check because it shows your bank's routing number and your account number in a standard, hard-to-mistype format. Some will accept a direct deposit form from your bank or a screenshot from your bank app instead, so ask what they take.

If they want a check and you don't have a checkbook, you can print one. Create a check from your account in SimpleChex, print it on plain paper, and write VOID across it as above. The routing and account numbers print in the MICR line exactly as they appear on a bank-issued check.

Already sent the check? Voiding won't stop it

Writing VOID only works on a check you still have. If you've mailed or handed over a check and need to cancel it, contact your bank and ask for a stop payment. Banks usually charge a fee, and a stop payment only works if the check hasn't been cashed yet.

In SimpleChex, voiding a check you've already printed or emailed marks it void in your history and audit log — but the paper or PDF already in someone's hands can still be presented to your bank, so place a stop payment if needed.

Voiding vs. tearing up a check

If you made a mistake and still have the check, voiding is better than throwing it away. You keep a record of what happened to that check number, and nobody can fish a signed check out of the trash. After you've recorded it, shred it or file it.

Frequently asked

Can I void a check by writing VOID on the signature line only?

Write it large across the whole front so no part of the check could be completed and used. Just avoid covering the routing and account numbers at the bottom.

Does a voided check expire?

No. A voided check can't be cashed, so there's nothing to expire. It's simply a record of your account numbers.

Is it safe to give someone a voided check?

It shows your routing and account numbers, the same as any check you write. Only give one to an employer or company you trust, for the purpose they asked.

How do I void an electronic check?

For a check emailed through SimpleChex, open it in your check history and choose Void. It's marked void in your history and audit log. If the recipient may already have printed it, also ask your bank about a stop payment.

Can I reuse the check number of a voided check?

Don't. Keep check numbers unique so your records and your bank statement always line up.

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