How To Write A Void Check: Quick Step-By-Step Guide

Wonder how to write a void check? You’ve come to the right spot – look no further! This post is a quick reference guide to help you out.

In this post, we will discuss what a voided check is, how to write one, why you may need a voided check, and recommend a few tips as well.

HOW TO WRITE A VOID CHECK: GETTING STARTED.

Voiding a check is a helpful skill to have handy. It is a complementary skill to writing a check, and it can be used in several ways! Common uses include establishing direct deposit with your employer, or used when you write a check for the wrong amount.

What is the meaning of a voided check? What does void mean? Voiding a check means you are preventing it from being used to pay or withdraw from your account.

For example, properly voiding a check would prevent someone from filling it out like a blank check and paying themselves with your money.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE ON HOW TO WRITE A VOIDED CHECK:

Here’s a reference for some steps to keep in mind to ensure you’re properly voiding a check and includes a voided check example as well. Don’t worry – this is a relatively easy process to follow!

Step 1: Document your Check Number

Take a look at your check. On the top right, there is typically a check number (some checks also have the check number listed along the bottom after the account number); document the check number in your checkbook. This will allow you to keep a record of and account for all your checks.

Step 2: Write “VOID” across the front

Take a moment and write the word “VOID” over the face of the check with big letters. In order to be as thorough as possible, ensure you cover these fields:

• Payee Field
• Amount Fields (there are two)
• Date Field
• Signature Field

Congratulations my friend, that is it!

Tips for Voiding a Check.

The process of voiding a check is simple. While it may not be as common as it once was, it is important, and can be used to further develop Mêtis in your Money Matters!

Here are a few tips that I’ve used which I hope can help you as well.

Make a Record of the Voided Check.

In addition to the step of recording the check number, take a moment to copy your voided check (either with the traceable paper behind the check or with a physical copy). It can be difficult to remember all the different checks, and keeping a record makes life simple. This way you’ll always be able to maintain accountability for your check inventory.

Use a bold permanent ink pen in colors like black, or blue.

Years ago, I remember my banker telling me to avoid red pens, pencils, and anything that could be erased or would potentially be too faded to detect. The advice has stayed with me, and I try to use a permanent marker accordingly.

COMMON REASONS ‘WHY’ YOU MAY WANT TO VOID YOUR CHECK.

Check writing is probably less common now, but there are still valid scenarios to consider. Here are a few examples:

Need a void check for setting up Direct Deposit or Auto Bill Pay?

An employer could need a voided check from you to set up a direct deposit. A void check tells your employer the banking institution, the routing number, and the account to use. If you are setting up auto bill pay, then you might come across this scenario as well.

The good news is that the process for voiding a check is the same for both cases. However, if you do not have checks, don’t worry: there are options!

How to Void a Check for Direct Deposit.

Speaking from personal experience here, when I first joined the company, I had to provide my employer so they could set up direct deposit. The process was the same as listed above!

Simply write the check number in your checkbook, and then write the word VOID across the front of the check.

Make sure you don’t cover-up the routing and account numbers! These are what your company will use to set up the direct deposit.

Don’t have checks? Need an alternative to writing a void check?

Sometimes checking accounts do not provide their depositors with paper checks. Here are a few potential alternatives!

• Check online: Sometimes you can complete this step online! If you haven’t checked online, try logging in and verifying accordingly. You may not even need a void check after all.

• Check with your Bank: Ask your bank for a deposit slip, an official letter (with letterhead) with your name, routing number, and account number.

Is it too late? Made a mistake in filing out your check?

The good news is if you fill out a check incorrectly, then you can void it, document it (record the check number in your checkbook), and then shred it. No worries!

However, if you have already handed over the check to your payee (the person or business you wrote the check to), then you have to consider different action items.

Can you stop a check from being cashed?

If you wrote a check and do not have it in your possession, then you need to take a different course of action. (You cannot void a check that you don’t physically have).

Start by trying to collect the check. There might be a way to get it back! For example, if you made a mistake and gave it to a family member you might be able to contact them accordingly. I mention this only in case it is an easy and obvious path forward. Once you collect it back, then simply follow the steps above. Void it and start over.

Need to Cancel a check?

However, if you cannot get the check back, then get on the phone with your bank and work with them to place a stop-payment on that check.

A canceled check is not the same as a voided check. Canceling a check could be helpful for cases when a written check is stolen or lost. Keep in mind, this process requires additional effort, is time-sensitive, and could cost additional money. Reach out to your bank right away if you need to cancel a check and they will be able to assist you.

Here are a few more posts that might interest you:

• Mint.com budgeting platform| My Honest Review
• 8 Ways to Save Money on Back to School Supplies
• How to Save Money on Gas with GetUpside App
• 5 Financial Commitment to Improve Your Love Life – A Valentine’s Day Post

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