How to Fill Out a Check

If you’re new to checkwriting, you may not know how to fill out a check. The process is easy once you learn the basics. Learn how to fill out a check properly, and what you can do to stop writing checks if you want to use alternative forms of payment.

How to Fill Out a Check

To fill out a check properly, you need to put the following items on the check:

• The current date
• Who the check gets paid to
• How much (in numeric and written form) the payment should be
• Any additional information needed (memos, driver’s license number, etc)
• Your signature

You should always use a pen so that nobody can alter your writing.

Examples and More Details

To get a better idea of how to fill out a check, watch a video or go through a tutorial. They’ll show you where everything goes as you fill out your check, and how you can protect your account.

• Video - How to Fill Out a Check
• Step-by-Step - How to Fill Out a Check

After You Fill Out a Check

To avoid fees and trouble, you should keep track of your spending. Make sure you record every transaction in a check register as part of your routine every time you fill out a check. You’ll know where your money is going, and you’re less likely to bounce checks.

• Video - How to Balance Your Checkbook
• What Happens if You Write Bad Checks?

Alternatives to Paper Checks

You may find that it’s too much trouble to fill out a check every time you want to pay for something. It may be faster, easier, and safer to use an electronic form of payment. See if you can make your life easier by going electronic.

• Set up Online Bill Pay
• How Debit Cards Work
• 8 Reasons to Stop Writing Checks

Return to the main page on Bank Checks.