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If you've made a mistake when writing a check, it's usually safest just to void the check and start a new one. If this isn't an option or your mistake is fixable, draw a neat line through your mistake and write the correction right above it. Initial your correction to help authenticate it. If you're not sure whether or not your check will be accepted after you've corrected it, check with your bank before trying to submit it.
Steps
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Check to see if you made a fixable mistake like a misspelled name or wrong date. These types of mistakes can sometimes be fixed so that the check is still usable. If you wrote the wrong amount of money on the written section, this can’t be corrected and won’t be accepted by the bank. [1] X Research source
- Some banks will accept fixed mistakes on checks while others won't, so check with your bank if you’re unsure.
- If your numerical value in the box is correct but the spelled-out value is wrong, you’ll need to void the check and write another one.
- When in doubt, avoid the check and start a new one just to be safe.
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Cross out the mistake and write the correction on the check. Use a blue or black pen to neatly cross out your mistake, such as a misspelled name, wrong date, or wrong numerical check amount, with one simple line. Write the correction above the mistake neatly. [2] X Research source
- Avoid scribbling out the mistake—just one solid line will do.
- If it's a misspelled name, write the misspelled name and the corrected name on the back of the check with your signature.
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Write your initials next to the corrected mistake. Write them as close to the corrected mistake as possible so that the bank is more likely to accept your correction. Use all three of your initials (first, middle, and last) if possible to indicate that you have approved the change. [3] X Research source
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Be aware that your check may not be accepted even after you’ve fixed it. Even if you cross out your mistake and initial it, your bank may not validate it. These kinds of corrections often mean that someone has altered the check without the owner knowing, leading the bank to believe your check isn't authentic. [4] X Research source
- If you’re worried that your bank won’t accept your check, call or visit them to ask them before trying to submit it. Sometimes banks will fine you 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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Use a writing utensil that can’t be erased. This includes black and blue pens or a permanent marker. [5] X Research source Avoid using pencil, as someone could easily erase your writing and try to use the check.
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Write the word “void” in large, capital letters across the check. Try to make your writing take up the entire check, going from left to right. To take extra precautions, write the word “void” in places like the signature line or the payment amount box. [6] X Research source
- Write “void” on the back of the check too, if desired.
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Record the voided check in your check register. Write the check number in your check register, and write a small note next to it about why you voided the check. This will help you account for the check later on. [7] X Research source
- For example, you might write in your check register that it was check #104 and was voided because the wrong amount was written on the check.
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Make a copy of the check for your records if needed before destroying it. This could be just for your personal records, or if you’re going to use it to set up a direct deposit or debit account. Use a scanner to scan the check, or take a photo using your phone or a camera.
- 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 over.
- Double-check to make sure the numerical amount in the payment amount box matches the amount you wrote out in words.
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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?Top 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.
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Tips
- Always use blue or black ink when writing a check.Thanks
- If you feel that your check is illegible in any way, you should void it and begin again. Print the information, except the signature, in the neatest possible manner.Thanks
- If you made a mistake in pen, don't scribble! Try turning it into another letter or number before marking up your check.Thanks
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References
- ↑ https://pocketsense.com/can-cash-check-name-spelled-wrong-8970.html
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJF3VARYbxE#t=1m43s
- ↑ https://www.inc.com/shannon-mcnay-insler/check-bounce-overdraft-fee-balance.html
- ↑ https://youtu.be/u8rVXZ1XARE?t=65
- ↑ https://www.cibc.com/en/personal-banking/ways-to-bank/how-to/void-cheque.html
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFApHP6w1YI#t=17s
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFApHP6w1YI#t=46s
About This Article
Article Summary
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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!
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