There are various reasons as to why you might be required to write a check. For example, some companies might offer you a discount for writing a check as compared to swiping a card. This is because they will save cash by not paying the processing fee.
Therefore, if you are writing a check make sure that you follow the instruction to writing a check so that you will do it the right way if you don’t want to have issues later. To make your work easier below are six simple step for writing a check.
1. The date of the check should be at the top right corner
You can use any date format when writing a check. For instance, September 6, 2018, 6/9/2018 or you can use any other format. Being consistent is crucial as it will make you to quickly know if a check has been stolen from your account. For instance, if you always write the dates of your checks in this format 6 September 2018. A cheque which is forged will easily be recognized as it will have a different format.
2. Add the name of the person you are paying in the “pay to the order section.”
This is the section where you write the person whom you are paying to. It’s vital for you to write clearly when filling in your check. Also, don’t forget to include the first and last names of the person or the business name the check is going to.
3. Write the full amount you are paying in numbers
Always try to be neat and precise. Make a clear difference between dollars and cents by putting a decimal point or underline the cents number so that there won’t be any confusion about the said amount. This confirms the amount which is in written form so that there is no confusion on the amount of money which should be paid.
4. Handwrite the amount of dollars in words
In some cases, banks will double check the written amount if they are unable to read the amount in the box. Try to write the amount of dollars in words as clearly as possible when writing the check.
5. Fill the memo section which is on the bottom left
When writing a check, most of the people don’t use the memo line. Filling in the memo field is important as it can help you secure your account and protect you in case of a payment dispute. When you are paying a bill always write the account number in the memo section.
6. Signing the check at the bottom right
This is the most crucial part in the process of writing a check. Companies don’t accept checks if they don’t have valid signatures. We all have unique signatures, the signature which is on your check can protect you from prospective criminals who write forge checks.
Writing a check may seem like vintage art, but it’s a necessary skill to learn. In today’s world, most companies prefer checks as compared to cards because it’s a secure mode of payment for goods and services.