Writing Checks With Examples: The Complete Banking Guide

Understanding how to write a check example remains an essential banking skill, even in our digital age. While mobile payments and online transfers dominate modern finance, checks continue to serve as a reliable payment method for bills, services, and various transactions. Whether you’re paying utilities, receiving a paycheck, or handling business expenses, knowing how to properly complete, endorse, and deposit checks protects you from costly mistakes and potential fraud.

Essential Check Elements: Understanding The Key Numbers

Before you start writing any check, familiarize yourself with the three critical numbers that appear on every bank check. These identifiers are crucial for both writing checks and conducting online banking transactions.

The bank routing number is a unique nine-digit code assigned to your specific financial institution. Every bank has its own routing number, and you’ll need this when setting up direct deposits, wire transfers, or any online banking activity. This number typically appears in the lower left corner of your check.

Your account number is personal to your checking account and distinguishes your account from others at the same bank. This number appears in the lower left section of the check after the routing number.

Finally, the check number serves as a sequential identifier for each check in your book. You’ll find it printed in two places—the upper right corner and again after your account number at the bottom of the check. Tracking these numbers helps you maintain accurate financial records.

Practical Example: How To Complete Your First Check Payment

Let’s walk through a real-world scenario to demonstrate how to write a check example properly. Imagine you need to pay your electric utility company $113.97 for monthly service. Your bill statement lists the company name and payment instructions, giving you all the details needed to complete the payment instrument.

Start with the date in the upper right corner. Write the date when you’re mailing the check—this indicates when you authorized the payment. The recipient uses this date to verify payment timing.

Next, identify the payee on the “Pay to the Order of” line. Write the exact name as it appears on your bill or invoice. In this example, you’d enter “ABC Electric” or whatever your utility company’s official name is. Accuracy here is critical; misspelled names can delay payment processing.

Enter the numerical amount in the box on the right side of the check, positioned close to the left border. Writing “$113.97” prevents someone from fraudulently adding digits to the left. This is a common security consideration when learning how to write a check.

Write out the amount in words on the line below the payee line. For the utility payment, you’d write “One hundred thirteen dollars and 97/100.” The written-out amount takes legal precedence if any discrepancies exist between the numerical and written figures.

Complete the memo line with relevant information. For utility payments, write your account number here—companies often require this for payment processing and account matching. The memo section also helps you track the payment’s purpose later.

Sign the check on the bottom right line. Your signature authorizes the payment and makes the check legally valid. Never sign a blank check or one where you haven’t completed the payee and amount fields.

Security Measures: Protecting Your Checks From Fraud

Check fraud remains a genuine concern, making security practices essential. Always use pen when writing checks—pencil can be erased and altered by someone with bad intentions. Avoid writing blank checks under any circumstances; if you must give someone a check, complete all fields yourself.

Don’t sign until you’ve filled in both the payee and amount. This prevents someone from modifying these crucial fields after your signature appears. Additionally, avoid making checks payable to cash whenever possible, as cash checks can be cashed by anyone who possesses them.

Leave no blank spaces on your check, particularly near the amount line. Fraudsters look for empty space where they can add zeros or change digits. Writing amounts as far left as possible in the numerical box closes this security gap.

Keeping detailed records of every check you write—whether in a traditional check register, spreadsheet, or budgeting app—helps you track spending and identify any unauthorized activity quickly.

Endorsement Strategies: Different Ways To Back A Check

When you receive a check, endorsement is necessary before depositing or cashing it. The endorsement (your signature on the back) verifies that you’re the legitimate payee. Check the back of your check for an endorsement area, usually marked “Endorse here.” The line typically includes a note stating “Do not write, stamp, or sign below this line”—this keeps your endorsement in the proper processing zone.

Blank endorsement is the simplest method: just sign your name on the back. However, this approach offers minimal security because anyone holding the check could potentially cash it. Use blank endorsement for immediate deposits to reduce this risk.

Secure endorsement provides better protection. Write “For Deposit Only to Account Number XXXXXXXXX” and then sign below. This restricts the check to deposit-only use, preventing unauthorized cash withdrawals. Many banks and mobile deposit apps recommend this approach.

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

Business checks require authorization from the company. The endorsement should include the business name, authorized signatory’s signature, job title, and any restrictions like “For Deposit Only.”

Multiple payee checks depend on how the original check was written. If payable to “John and Jane Doe,” both must endorse. If written as “John or Jane Doe,” either party can endorse.

Depositing Your Checks: Multiple Methods Available

Three main deposit options exist for modern banking. In-person deposits at your local branch involve presenting your endorsed check to a teller, who processes it immediately. Bring valid identification like a driver’s license.

ATM deposits offer 24/7 convenience at most bank and credit union automated machines. Endorse your check beforehand, insert it into the designated slot (sometimes within a provided envelope), and follow on-screen instructions. Your funds typically appear within one to two business days.

Mobile check deposits have revolutionized banking convenience. Using your bank’s app, photograph both the front and back of your endorsed check, enter the amount, and submit. The system verifies and processes your deposit electronically. Keep the original check until you confirm the deposit cleared and funds appear in your account, then securely destroy it.

Ordering New Checks: Simple Process Overview

When your check supply runs low, ordering replacements is straightforward. Many banks offer free checks when you open a checking account; others charge a fee. Most financial institutions allow online ordering through their website or mobile app—simply log in and navigate to account services or customer service sections.

Gather an existing check before ordering, as it contains your account number, routing number, and bank information. Note your last check number so your new batch begins with the next sequential number.

Third-party check providers also sell checks online or through partnerships with your bank. These vendors typically offer more design options and sometimes competitive pricing. When ordering from external vendors, provide your bank name, account number, routing number, and starting check number.

Costs vary depending on your ordering source and design complexity—basic personal checks cost less than customized versions with logos or special designs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Checks

Can I write a post-dated check? Most states permit post-dated checks, though you should verify your state’s specific laws. A post-dated check bears a future date and is sometimes used when payment isn’t yet due or sufficient funds aren’t currently available.

What if I need to pay the IRS? Make your check payable to “U.S. Treasury,” not the IRS. Include your name, address, daytime phone number, Social Security number or EIN, the relevant tax year, and the associated tax form number. Contact the IRS or your tax professional for the correct mailing address.

Can I write a check to myself? Yes, this is perfectly legal. Writing a check to yourself transfers funds between accounts or provides a cash withdrawal method. Simply enter your name on the payee line.

Can I deposit checks at an ATM? Many banks and credit unions enable ATM check deposits. Verify this capability with your financial institution and confirm their specific deposit procedures.

Is ATM mobile deposit secure? Mobile deposits are generally secure when proper endorsement practices are followed. Banks increasingly prefer “For Deposit Only” endorsements for mobile transactions to prevent unauthorized handling.

Understanding how to write a check example, from initial creation through deposit and beyond, ensures your financial transactions proceed smoothly and securely. These fundamental banking skills remain relevant despite technological advances in payment methods.