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If you've made a mistake when writing a check, it's usually safest to void the check and start a new one. However, in some cases, your mistake might be small enough to fix! In this article, we'll explain which mistakes you can correct on a check, plus the proper way to make a correction and validate it. We'll also cover whether you can use whiteout to block out a mistake and how to void a check in the case of more significant mistakes.
How to Correct a Check: Brief Overview
If you made a mistake when writing the payee name, date, or memo, cross it out with a black gel pen. Then write the correction with your initials above it to indicate you – the signor – approve the change. If you make a mistake in the numerical or written amount sections, void the check and write a new one.
Steps
How to Correct Mistakes on a Check
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Cross out a small mistake and write the correction next to it. Using a black gel pen, strikethrough errors in the pay to the order of, date, and memo lines on the check. [1] X Research source Avoid making squiggly lines or trying to block out the mistake completely in ink, or that might raise red flags for the bank clerk who processes the check. Then write the corrected word or number next to the mistake in neat, legible lettering.
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Write your initials next to the corrected mistake. Your initials indicate to the bank clerk that you approved the changes made to the check. Place them directly above or adjacent to the correction where the bank clerk can easily see them. Use all 3 of your initials (first, middle, and last), if possible. [2] X Research source
- Be aware that the bank may not accept the check even after you fix it. Corrections can signal to the bank clerk that someone has altered the check without the owner knowing, leading them to suspect the check isn't authentic. Even if they know you or the payee, they may still reject the check if the bank's policy says they must.
- If you’re worried your payee's bank won’t accept your check, call or visit them and ask them about it. Sometimes banks will fine people for trying to submit checks that should be voided.
Jean Chatzky, Award-Winning Financial JournalistWhen writing checks, we can all make silly mistakes like a misspelled name or wrong date. Thankfully, banks have procedures for fixing minor errors, so payments still go through. For example, initialing next to a corrected date shows you fixed the mistake intentionally. Just never alter the amount after signing, since that invalidates the check. Following proper protocol protects your money and builds trust.
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Void checks with large errors like an incorrect amount. If either of the amount values is incorrect, void the check and write another one to avoid any confusion. Similarly, write a new check if you made a significant mistake in your signature and it no longer matches how you normally sign. [3] X Research source
How to Void a Check
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Use a writing utensil that can’t be erased. This includes blue and black permanent markers. [6] X Research source Avoid using a pencil, as someone could easily erase your writing and rewrite every part of the check.
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Write the word “void” in large, capital letters across the check. Write it in big enough letters to take up the entire check from left to right (but avoid covering up the banking digits on the bottom left portion of the check). [7] X Research source As an extra precaution, write the word “void” again in places like the signature line or the written amount box.
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Record the voided check in your check register. Write the check number in your checkbook with a small note next to it explaining why you voided the check. This will help you account for it later on when you balance your checkbook . [8] X Research source
- For example, you might write in your check register that it was check #104 and was voided because you wrote the wrong amount on it.
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Make a copy of the check for your records before destroying it (optional). A voided check can be useful for setting up electronic bill payments or to set up a direct deposit account at a financial institution. [9] X Research source Use a scanner to scan the check and save it to your computer files or take a photo of it with your mobile phone. Alternatively, you can just keep the voided check itself.
- If you don’t need the check any longer, rip it up and dispose of it in the trash.
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Write a new check using the next check in your book. Take your time writing the check to be sure you don’t make any mistakes. Include all the correct information and record it in your check register before handing it or sending it to the payee.
- Double-check that the numerical amount in the payment amount box matches the amount you wrote out in words.
Community Q&A
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QuestionWhat do I do if I signed in the memo area of a cheque?DonaganTop AnswererSign the check again on the proper line. You can leave the first signature where it is if you like, or, if you prefer, you can cross it out and initial it. Either way the check is negotiable.
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QuestionIf l wrote a check and spelled the surname wrong, if I correct it and initial the correction, will it be accepted by the bank?PreuxFoxTop AnswererYes, in most cases this should be accepted. Strike a single line through the surname and rewrite it correctly, then clearly initial beside the change. It is best if you use the same pen that you used to originally write out the check.
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QuestionIf I ordered checks and the company put the wrong account number on the checks, can I just write it in with pen?Emily Berger1Community AnswerNo, you'll need to contact the company that created your checks and tell them that the wrong account number is on them. Writing the right account number on the checks using a pen likely won't be accepted by a bank.
Tips
- Always use black gel ink when writing a check and a permanent marker when voiding one.Thanks
- If your check is illegible anywhere, void it and begin again with a new one. Print the information on the new check (except the signature which should be in cursive) in the neatest possible manner.Thanks
- If you made a mistake in ink, don't scribble it to block it out. Try turning it into another letter or number before marking up your check.Thanks
References
- ↑ https://www.citizensbank.com/learning/how-to-write-check.aspx
- ↑ https://www.inc.com/shannon-mcnay-insler/check-bounce-overdraft-fee-balance.html
- ↑ https://www.citizensbank.com/learning/how-to-write-check.aspx
- ↑ https://www.wafdbank.com/blog/consumer-tips/how-to-write-a-check
- ↑ https://dbf.georgia.gov/check-fraud-counterfeit-checks
- ↑ https://www.bankrate.com/banking/checking/what-is-a-voided-check
- ↑ https://www.cibc.com/en/personal-banking/ways-to-bank/how-to/void-cheque.html
- ↑ https://www.bankrate.com/banking/checking/what-is-a-voided-check
- ↑ https://www.bankrate.com/banking/checking/what-is-a-voided-check
About This Article
To fix a small mistake when you’re writing a check, like writing the date incorrectly, first make a small line through your mistake. Then, write the correct numbers or letters to the right of what you’ve crossed out. Finally, write your initials next to what you’ve changed, and fill out the rest of the check. If you’ve made a more significant mistake, like writing the check out to the wrong person or for the wrong amount, write the word “void” in large, capital letters from the bottom left to the top right of the check. Then, start over with a new check. To learn how to record a voided check in your check register, keep reading!
