Writing a Check Example: Master This Essential Banking Skill

Despite living in an increasingly digital world, checks remain a fundamental part of banking. Whether you’re paying a vendor, receiving a paycheck, or handling personal finances, understanding how to write and manage checks is a practical skill that every account holder should possess. This guide walks you through the entire process with real-world examples and practical advice.

Understanding Your Check: Three Critical Numbers to Identify

Before you put pen to paper, you need to recognize the key identifiers on your check. Every printed check contains three important numbers in consistent locations, each serving a distinct purpose in the banking system.

The bank routing number is a nine-digit code unique to your financial institution. This number identifies which bank processes your account and is essential for electronic transactions, direct deposits, and online payments. Your account number is equally important—it’s the individual identifier for your specific checking account, distinguishing it from every other account at your bank. Finally, each check has a check number, which appears both in the upper right corner and after the account number, allowing you to track individual transactions.

Writing Your Check: A Step-by-Step Approach

Completing a check correctly ensures it will be accepted and processed without issues. Here’s how to fill out each section properly.

Start with the date in the upper right corner. Write the date you’re actually sending the check, which helps the recipient understand when the payment was initiated. This is important for record-keeping and financial tracking.

Next, identify the recipient. On the line marked “Pay to the Order of,” write the exact name of the person, business, or organization receiving the payment. Double-check that you have the correct spelling—this matters for processing and legal purposes.

Complete the numerical amount in the box on the right side. Write your figure as far left as possible within the box to prevent someone from fraudulently adding digits. For example, writing close to the left edge makes it difficult for someone to change $100.00 into $1,100.00.

Write out the amount in words on the line below the payee name. If you’re writing a check for $243.26, you’ll write “Two hundred forty-three dollars and 26/100.” This written version is legally binding—if there’s a discrepancy between the numerical and written amounts, the written version takes precedence.

Use the memo line to note the purpose of the payment. This is particularly helpful for taxes, utilities, or vendor payments where you might want to include an account number or reference number for your records.

Sign the check on the line in the bottom right corner. Your signature is what makes the check legally valid and demonstrates your authorization of the payment.

Writing a Check Example: Practical Application

Let’s walk through a concrete example. Suppose you’re paying your electric company, ABC Electric, for your monthly service. Your bill shows an amount due of $113.97.

The date: If you’re mailing the check on February 3, 2026, you’ll write that date in the upper right corner.

The payee: Write “ABC Electric” on the “Pay to the Order of” line. Always verify the exact name the company requires.

The numerical amount: Write “$113.97” in the payment amount box on the right side of the check.

The written amount: Below the payee line, write “One hundred thirteen dollars and 97/100.”

The memo: Many utility companies require your account number on the check memo line for processing. Refer to your bill to find this number.

Your signature: Review all information for accuracy, then sign the check. Once completed, mail it with any required documentation to the address on your bill.

This same process applies whether you’re paying a business, an individual, or a government agency—the format remains consistent.

Tracking and Managing Your Checks

One way to stay organized is to maintain a record of every check you write. This can be done through a traditional check register (provided with most check orders), a spreadsheet, or a digital tracking system. At minimum, record the check number, date, payee, transaction description, and amount.

Regular reconciliation with your bank statements—often called balancing your checkbook—helps you catch errors, prevent overdrafts, and maintain a clear picture of your financial health. Many people overlook this step, but it’s crucial for staying in control of your account.

Endorsing a Check: Different Methods for Different Situations

When you receive a check, you must endorse the back before depositing or cashing it. Endorsement verifies you’re the intended recipient and protects against fraud.

Blank endorsement is the simplest method: just sign your name on the back. You’ll tell the bank teller what you want to do (cash or deposit). While common for ATM and mobile deposits, this method is the least secure because anyone holding the check could attempt to cash it.

Secure endorsement provides better protection. Write “For Deposit Only to Account Number [your number]” and then sign below. This restricts the check to deposit only, and you can add your signature right before depositing to minimize risk.

Third-party endorsement allows you to transfer a check to someone else. Write “Pay to the order of [Person’s Name]” and sign below. Not all banks accept this method, so check first.

Business endorsement requires an authorized representative to sign on behalf of the company, typically including the business name, signature, job title, and any restrictions like “For Deposit Only.”

Multiple payee checks require attention to how they’re written. If the check says “Jane and John Doe,” both must endorse. If it says “Jane or John Doe,” either one can endorse.

Depositing Your Check: Multiple Options

You have several convenient ways to get your check into your account.

In-person deposit at a bank branch remains reliable. Bring your endorsed check, a valid ID, and present it to a teller. You can fill out a deposit slip or simply tell the teller your intentions.

ATM deposit is often available 24/7. Endorse your check, locate an eligible ATM, insert your card, and follow the on-screen instructions. Some ATMs require you to use an envelope for your deposit.

Mobile deposit has become increasingly popular. Using your bank’s app, you’ll enter the check amount, photograph the front and back, and submit. Keep the physical check until it clears and funds appear in your account, then destroy it.

Ordering New Checks

When you run out, ordering is straightforward. Many banks provide free checks with new accounts; if not, you’ll need to purchase them.

Online ordering through your bank’s website or app is often easiest. Look for options under customer service or account settings. You’ll need your last check number so new orders begin in the correct sequence.

You can also order through your local bank branch or by calling customer service. Third-party check suppliers are another option, either through your bank’s partnership or independently.

To order, have a current check handy containing your account number, routing number, and bank information. The cost varies based on where you order and your chosen design—basic checks are typically the most affordable option.

Safety and Security: Protecting Against Check Fraud

Checks remain susceptible to fraud without proper precautions. Follow these essential practices:

• Use a pen, never pencil, so information cannot be erased or altered.
• Never write blank checks that someone could complete later.
• Don’t sign until you’ve added both the payee and amount.
• Avoid checks payable to cash, which anyone can deposit.
• Leave no blank space on the amount line where digits could be added.

These straightforward measures significantly reduce fraud risk and protect your account.

Special Check Scenarios

Writing a check to yourself is legal and serves as a withdrawal method or way to transfer between accounts. Simply write your name as the payee.

Post-dated checks (checks with future dates) are legal in most states, though check your local laws. Some use them when expecting future funds or paying ahead of due dates.

Checks to the IRS require additional information beyond standard details. Include your name, address, daytime phone number, Social Security number or EIN, tax year, and the related tax form number. Make it payable to “U.S. Treasury,” not the IRS, and verify the correct mailing address.

Conclusion: Why Checks Still Matter

In an age of digital payments and peer-to-peer apps, checks remain relevant for good reason. They provide a clear paper trail, are widely accepted by businesses and government agencies, and offer security through signature verification. By mastering the fundamentals of writing, endorsing, depositing, and managing checks, you gain control over an important aspect of your financial life. Whether you need to pay a utility company, receive an insurance settlement, or manage business finances, these skills ensure you handle checks confidently and securely.