The line where you spell out the amount needs the most care. When the words disagree with the number in the box, section 3-114 of the Uniform Commercial Code says the words win.
Space left before or after the words lets someone add a word that raises the amount, and space beside the number lets them add a digit so the two still agree.
Here are the six fields in order, with a $1,042.75 rent check as the example.
- The date, at the top right.
- The full name of whoever you’re paying, after “Pay to the order of,” such as Maria Lopez, not just Maria.
- The amount in numbers, written in the box right against the dollar sign, such as 1,042.75.
- The amount in words, starting at the far left, with the cents written over 100, such as “One thousand forty-two and 75/100,” and a line drawn through the rest of the space.
- A memo if you want one, such as “Unit 4B rent,” or the account number printed on a bill you’re paying.
- Your signature, last, and never on a blank check.
Don’t correct a mistake on the check itself. Write VOID across the front in large letters and start over on a new check. Filling every line won’t stop a thief who steals a check from the mail and washes off the ink, so mail yours from inside the post office.
Then write down every check, voided ones included, in a check register or a note on your phone: its number, the date, who it’s for, and the amount. The check number is the short one at the top right, printed again along the bottom with your account number and the nine-digit routing number that identifies your bank.
Your banking app keeps a check’s amount in your balance until the check clears, which can be days or weeks after you write it. Count that amount as spent the day you write the check, not the day it clears.
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