Guide

How to write a check, step by step.

Six fields, filled in order. Here's what goes where, the mistakes that get checks rejected, and how to print a check when you don't have a checkbook.

Or let SimpleChex fill it in Print a check at home →

The six parts of a check

1
Date (top right)
Today's date, or a later date if you're post-dating. Banks may still deposit a post-dated check early, so don't rely on the date to delay payment.
2
Pay to the order of
The person's or company's full legal name. Write it exactly as they'll deposit it — "Sample Vendor LLC", not a nickname.
3
Amount in numbers (the box)
Write it close to the dollar sign, e.g. 1,250.00, so nothing can be added in front.
4
Amount in words (the long line)
"One thousand two hundred fifty and 00/100". Draw a line through the empty space after it. If the words and numbers disagree, the words usually win.
5
Memo (bottom left)
Optional. An invoice number, account number or "October rent" helps both sides keep records.
6
Signature (bottom right)
Sign the way your bank has on file. An unsigned check won't be paid.

The numbers along the bottom

The strip at the bottom is the MICR line, printed in a special font called E-13B. From left to right it usually shows the 9-digit routing number (which bank), your account number, and the check number. Banks read this line automatically, which is why it must be printed precisely — and why you can't hand-write it.

Common mistakes

Words and numbers that don't match. Leaving space before the amount. Forgetting to sign. Writing a payee name the recipient can't deposit under. Using a check number you already used — keep a register, or let software track it for you.

No checkbook? Print one.

If you need a check today and you're out, you can print a complete check — MICR line included — on plain paper. SimpleChex fills in the date, amount in words and signature for you, and keeps a record of every check. It's free for up to 10 checks a month, for personal or small business accounts.

Frequently asked

How do I write cents on a check?

Write cents as a fraction over 100 after the dollar words: $45.50 is "Forty-five and 50/100". For even amounts write "and 00/100".

Can I write a check to cash?

Yes, write "Cash" on the payee line, but anyone holding it can cash it, so only do this when you're handing it to the bank yourself.

What if I make a mistake?

Write VOID across the check, keep it for your records and write a new one. Don't try to correct a check — banks may reject altered checks.

How long is a check good for?

Banks are generally not required to honor a personal or business check more than six months after its date, though many still do.

Want it done for you?

SimpleChex writes the amount in words, adds your signature and prints a bank-ready check on plain paper. Free for one business.

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