Getting Your Check Fundamentals Right: Essential Numbers and Proper Writing Techniques

Before you put pen to paper, understanding how to write numbers in check forms is crucial—but first, you need to recognize the three foundational numbers that appear on every check. These identifiers are your gateway to safe and correct check usage.

Three Critical Numbers Every Check Writer Needs to Know

Think of your check as containing a financial ID system. Your bank routing number (always nine digits) acts as your financial institution’s unique identifier across the banking system. This number appears in the lower left corner and becomes essential for online transactions and electronic fund transfers. Your account number, displayed at the bottom center, is your personal checking account identifier—it’s what distinguishes your account from every other one at your bank. Finally, the check number appears twice: in the upper right corner and alongside your account number. This sequential numbering helps you track which checks you’ve written and in what order.

These three numbers form the backbone of check security and organization. Knowing where they are located prevents confusion during deposits and helps you maintain accurate records.

The Mechanics of Writing a Check: Step-by-Step Execution

Setting the Date and Identifying the Recipient

Start by entering today’s date in the upper right corner. This timestamp tells the recipient when you authorized the payment and helps establish a clear timeline for your financial records. Next comes the payee line—“Pay to the Order of”—where accuracy matters significantly. Ensure you have the exact legal name of the person, business, or organization. A misspelled name can complicate cashing or depositing your check.

How to Write Numbers in Checks: The Dual Amount System

This is where precision becomes non-negotiable. On the right side of the check, write the numerical amount close to the left border of the box. This positioning prevents fraud—if you leave too much space on the left, someone could insert additional digits and alter your check from $100 to $2,100.

Below the payee line, write out the amount in words. For example, a $243.26 check becomes “Two hundred forty-three dollars and 26/100.” The written-out amount has legal priority if discrepancies exist between the numerical and written versions, making this step essential. Many people skip this, but banks and recipients take this seriously.

Adding Context with the Memo Line

While optional, the memo section is where your future self thanks you. Use this space for account numbers, invoice references, or any detail that helps you track why you wrote this check. When paying utilities, taxes, or vendors, this becomes especially valuable for reconciliation.

The Non-Negotiable Signature

Your signature on the bottom right corner is your legal authorization. Without it, the check is invalid. Don’t sign until you’ve filled in the payee and both amount fields—signing a partially completed check is a security risk.

Real-World Application: Paying Your Utility Bill

Imagine your electric company sends a bill for $113.97. The statement requests checks as payment. Here’s how the process unfolds:

• Date: Write the date you’re mailing the check (July 1, 2022, for example)
• Payee: Write the exact company name as shown on the bill—“ABC Electric”
• Numerical amount: Write “$113.97” in the box on the right
• Written amount: Write “One hundred thirteen dollars and 97/100”
• Memo: Your utility company may require your account number here—add it
• Signature: Review everything and sign

This methodical approach prevents rejection and ensures the recipient processes your payment correctly.

Security Measures: Protecting Your Checks from Fraud

Fraud prevention starts before your check leaves your hands. Always use permanent ink (pen, not pencil) so information can’t be erased. Never sign blank checks or write checks payable to “cash”—both invite trouble. Don’t post-date checks unless absolutely necessary, and avoid leaving blank space where additional information could be inserted, especially in the amount field.

These precautions seem basic, but they block the most common check fraud schemes.

Tracking and Reconciliation: The Backend Work

Keep detailed records of every check you write. Note the check number, date, payee, transaction description, and amount. Use a check register (often provided with your checks), a spreadsheet, or a banking app. Monthly reconciliation with your bank statement ensures all transactions are accounted for and catches any unauthorized activity.

This organizational discipline protects your financial health and provides documentation if disputes arise.

Receiving and Endorsing Checks: The Recipient’s Role

When you receive a check, endorsement is required before depositing or cashing it. Turn the check over to the back and find the endorsement area. The most common approach is a blank endorsement—simply sign your name. However, this is the least secure method; once signed, anyone holding the check could attempt to cash it.

For better security, write “For Deposit Only to Account Number [Your Account]” and then sign. This restricts the check to deposit only and prevents unauthorized cashing. If you’re handing the check to a third party, write “Pay to the order of [Person’s Name]” and sign—though not all banks accept third-party endorsements, so verify first.

For mobile deposits, some banks require you to add “For Mobile Deposit To [Bank Name]” to your endorsement. Check your specific bank’s requirements in their app or customer service materials.

Depositing Your Check: Three Modern Methods

In-person: Visit your local branch, endorse your check, and hand it to a teller. Present your ID and either specify your intention or fill out a deposit slip.

ATM deposit: Many ATMs accept check deposits. Endorse your check, insert it into the designated slot (you may need an envelope), and follow the on-screen prompts.

Mobile deposit: Photograph both the front and back of your endorsed check using your bank’s app. Upload these images and enter the check amount. Hold the physical check until the funds clear, then destroy it.

Ordering Checks: Replenishing Your Supply

When you run low on checks, ordering is straightforward. Most banks allow online ordering through their website or app—look for customer service or account settings sections. You’ll need your account number, routing number, and the last check number you wrote so the new batch starts at the next sequential number.

Third-party check vendors offer alternatives, sometimes at lower costs. Regardless of where you order, have an existing check handy to reference all necessary information.

Addressing Specific Scenarios

Post-dated checks: Legal in most jurisdictions, though state laws vary. Some use these when funds aren’t immediately available, but modern banking makes this less common.

Writing to the IRS: Include standard check information plus your name, address, phone number, Social Security number, tax year, and related form number. Make the check payable to “U.S. Treasury,” not the IRS. Refer to tax forms or IRS guidance for the correct mailing address.

Checks to yourself: Perfectly legal. Write your name on the payee line to withdraw cash or transfer between accounts—though most people use online transfers or ATMs for this today.

Final Takeaway

Checks remain relevant in modern banking despite digital alternatives. Mastering how to write numbers in checks correctly, endorsing them securely, and maintaining accurate records ensures smooth transactions and protects you from fraud. Whether you’re paying bills, receiving payroll, or managing business expenses, these fundamental skills keep your checking account functioning as intended.