Voiding a check is generally a safe practice, but it’s important to understand the legal implications. These can be difficult to read or may not be accepted by financial institutions. A pencil can be easily erased, making the check vulnerable to fraud. This can be helpful in case you need to verify the check information or provide proof of authorization.
The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but we recommend consulting with your bank for specific check-writing requirements. Learn to write large checks with cents correctly. Step-by-step guide for writing checks that include cents.
- In this article, we’ll explore the exact steps on how to void a check, what to do after you void a check, and common mistakes some people make when voiding a check.
- Writing a future date can result in the check being declined or delayed by the bank.
- However, don’t let it cover the bottom where routing and account details are normally found.
- Blank check templates from PDFSimpli are a convenient and efficient way to print checks for personal or business use.
- A blank check template is a pre-designed document that allows individuals or businesses to easily print checks using their personal or business account information.
- So, let’s dive in and explore the world of voided checks, and discover why knowing how to write one out is more important than you might think.
In today’s fast-paced digital age, it’s easy to forget the importance of proper check-writing etiquette, especially when it comes to voiding a check. There are some companies that use a stamp to void checks for consistency. The process of voiding a check can vary slightly depending on the type of account you have. They can normally be voided and used as if they are normal checks. These documents are normally accepted in place of a voided check. This includes direct deposit forms or account verification letters.
- Despite being an invalid form of payment, a voided check, which shows your bank’s routing, account and check numbers, can play an important role in setting up various financial transactions.
- While these alternatives are becoming more widely accepted, it is still recommended to keep a few checks handy.
- You’ll also want to have the exact amount and the recipient’s name on hand, as these details help ensure the right check is stopped.
- And now you are an expert at handling this common financial task.
- Pay to the order of – Name of the individual or entity to whom the check is payable
A voided check should remain blank aside from the word “VOID”. However, the information printed on it, like your bank’s routing number, your account number, and the check number, is still visible. Yes, many institutions accept a clear photo or scanned image of a voided check.
To void a check means to write on it in a way that sends a message to the bank. A voided check is basically an ordinary check that an individual marks as invalid. Learning to properly void checks is just one piece of managing your finances effectively. Some organizations, particularly smaller businesses or traditional institutions, might still prefer the classic voided check.
How to Void a Check: 8 Steps with Pictures
Blank check templates are particularly useful for payroll checks or for printing multiple checks at once. Obtain blank check stock, which is a specialized paper designed for printing checks. It typically includes fields for the account number, routing number, payee name, amount and date, among other details. So, if you’re using a blank check template from PDFSimpli, you can effortlessly customize your check in a secure and user-friendly environment. To properly void a check, make sure you use a pen, not a pencil. Use large letters that fill up the entire check, how to calculate interest expense or write “VOID” in smaller letters on the date, payee, amount, and signature lines.
Why Is Voiding a Check Important?
If you’re wondering how do you void a check you’ve already written, this is it. Nowadays, some companies might ask for your debit card information to automatically deduct money from your bank account every month. There is a less chance of making a mistake when setting up your direct deposit. I mean your routing number and account number are either on the bottom or on the top of your check.
There are several situations when you might need to void a check, but the two most common are fixing mistakes and setting up direct deposit with an employer. All things considered, however, knowing how to void a check correctly can help protect your bank account and personal information, whether you’re the payer or payee. The ABA routing transit number (RTN) and account number on the MICR line are read by payroll/AP systems; no funds move because the check is void. A voided check is a sample check with “VOID” written across it. This precautionary measure prevents the check from being misused, whether you used it previously for an electronic payment or by thieves who might attempt to write a large sum of money out to themselves. There might also be situations like my example above, where a voided check is just the quickest and the best option to set up payroll.
Your bank must be able to understand if ever the check reaches them that it has been rendered void. If you want to take control of your financial future and learn more money management strategies, check out my New York Times bestseller, I Will Teach You To Be Rich. When this happens, voiding the check is the safest way to ensure it can’t be used, allowing you to start fresh with a new one. We all make mistakes when filling out checks—whether it’s writing the wrong amount, misspelling a name, or using the wrong date.
Understanding the Purpose and Importance of a Voided Check
If you accidentally cover them up, you’ll likely need to start over with a new check, as most organizations won’t accept it. While you want to make the “VOID” marking prominent, be careful not to cover up those important numbers at the bottom of your check. This copy serves as a backup in case anything goes wrong in transit, and it’s handy for future reference if you need to confirm any account details.
Uses of check templates for personal use:
You may not need or want to use a voided check to establish direct deposit with an employer. Having all this on a voided check makes it easier for an employer to establish and verify a connection to the bank account where you want your paycheck deposited. Voiding a check is a common practice used to nullify incorrect checks and set up direct deposits or bill payments. When you can’t obtain a blank check stub from your bank or if you use online banking, it’s often difficult to produce a neat and legible voided check. Let’s take a closer look at how to void a check and the various uses for voided checks.
How To Order Checks From TD Bank
For advice from our reviewer on canceling a check after you’ve sent it, read on! Write “VOID” across the front of the check with a blue or black permanent marker. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. With 12 years of experience, Gina specializes in working with smaller companies in every area of accounting, including economics and human resources. This article was co-authored by Gina D’Amore and by wikiHow staff writer, Eric McClure.
If it is done properly, no one can do anything with a voided check except what you void the check for. Or, try reading voiding a bank of American check, if you are a bank of American customer. Here is a picture of a voided check sample below.
Even when a check is voided correctly, it still contains sensitive information, such as the account holder’s name, bank, address and account number. The check will be used only to set up your paycheck to be deposited directly into your account, not as a payment method. Another frequent reason you’d void a check is to set up direct deposit.
Leave a Reply