Are You Guilty Of These Common Check Writing Mistakes?



A check is a form of promissory note that allows people to pay for items without having cash on hand. The checks are linked to a person or company's bank account, so when a person cashes the check at a financial institution, the money will be withdrawn from the account. Many people use checks every day to pay for items, but there are a number of common check writing mistakes that people fall into. These mistakes can bring about costly repercussions, so it is incredibly important to learn the proper way to sign a check, understand the mistakes and take careful steps to never make them. This is a responsible financial practice that allows people to make the most of their financial lives.
Can a check be post dated?
A post dated check is one that is filled out with a future date. Many people do this because they don't have the necessary funds in their account at the moment, but will have the necessary amount by the date in which the check is endorsed. Most people don't sign checks until they have the money, but still, too many people make the mistake of signing post dated checks. This is a risky practice, and one that should never be done. A common rule of thumb in terms of finances is to never spend money that one does not have. This means that a person who doesn't have the necessary funds should not fill out a check until they have the necessary money.
Does the written amount have to match the numerical amount?
Without question, it is important to match the numerical amount and written amount when filling out a check. The sole purpose for the written amount portion is to clear up any discrepancies that might be made in the numerical amount. Some people don't write their numbers clearly, so the written amount portion acts as a checks and balances system, to ensure that the proper amount is deducted. If these portions do not match up, the financial institution will likely not be able to cash the check.
Does a check have to be signed?
When writing a check, it is essential that the check writer signs the front. This is a safeguard against check fraud. Anybody can find a missing checkbook and make checks out to themselves, so records of the signature on the front will allow prosecutors to build a case in the case of fraud. Check depositors have some recourse if they forget to sign the back of the check if they're members of the bank, but practices are more stringent for the person who filled out the check.
Is it okay to scribble on a check when modifying or altering it?
When a person makes a mistake on a check, they are advised to scratch one clear line through the mistake and initial it. However, check writers should write an entirely new check whenever possible. While many banks will accept the stricken and initialed check, it is still the bank's discretion. In order to forego the possibility of the check being denied, a person should avoid these mistakes and re-write the check whenever time permits.
Does a check have to be written in pen or pencil?
Checks should never be written in pencil. Since pencil is erasable, a check writer opens himself or herself up to being taken advantage of when they choose to use pencil. As a rule of thumb, check writers should use a pen with blue or black ink. This practice allows for better records and more legible check writing practices.
What should I do with checks that I made mistakes on?
When a check is ruined beyond fixing, it is important to void it out. The best way to do this is to write the word "VOID" in large letters across the entire check, and when possible, scratch out any pertinent information. This way, if someone happens to find the check, they won't be able to cash it. This is a common measure people take in order to protect themselves against fraud.
How to Write a Check
How to Write a Check – Office of Financial Empowerment
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Peoples Bank of Alabama – How to Write a Check
Check Writing Tips – Step by step instructions for writing a blank check in USA
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Top 6 Common Check Writing Mistakes – Check SuperStore Blog
UCD Cashier – Writing Checks
TheMint.org – Fun For Kids – Writing a Check
BankingQuestions.com: Checks You Wrote
Check Adjustment Quick Reference Guide – Encoding Error (ENC)
OCC: Writing a Check: Understanding Your Rights
Endorsing and Writing Checks – SESLOC Federal Credit Union
Hanover County Internal Audit Department – Check Fraud Guidelines
NM State University – Write Checks the Right Way
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