Best Practices for Safer Check Writing and Storage to Avoid Common Errors and Risks

Mastering the Art of Writing Checks: A Comprehensive Guide

While electronic payments have become more popular, paper checks remain a common method of transferring funds. Therefore, knowing how to properly write a check remains useful- especially for spontaneous transactions where digital options are inconvenient.

This comprehensive guide covers the essential steps for writing checks correctly, including:

•Identifying required information
•Completing standard check sections
•Determining special fields and features
•Following best practices for legibility
•Avoiding common mistakes
•Storing and recording issued checks
•Best practices for safer check writing

With this context, individuals and businesses can confidently utilize checks whenever necessary, avoiding issues that may arise from improperly written instruments.

Required Information

Before writing a check, gather:

•Payee’s full name and address

•Date of transaction

•Exact amount to pay in numbers and written words

•Purpose or reason for payment

•Your pre-printed name and address from checks

•Signature that matches bank records

Completing Standard Sections

Fill out:

•Date field – with today’s date

•Pay to the order of – with payee’s exact name

•Written amount – matching numeric amount in words

•Signature line – with your signature

Special Fields

Also consider:

•Memo line – including invoice number or purpose

•Check number – if pre-printed checks

Best Practices

•Write neatly in dark blue or black ink.

•Double check all entries match.

•Never pre-sign checks.

•Avoid unnecessary lines/corrections.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Like:

•Incorrect date and amount

•Misspelled payee name

•Illegible writing

•Inconsistent signatures

Storing and Recording Checks

•Keep issued checks in a secure place.

•Record check number, date, amount and payee in check register.

Best Safety Practices

•Order checks from bank – avoiding check theft risks.

•Photocopy issued checks for records.

•Shred unused and voided checks.