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How to Write a Check in the USA: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Write a Check in the USA: Step-by-Step Guide (With Examples)

Joseph Jo

Despite the rise of digital payments, checks are still used across the United States for rent, bills, donations, and more. Whether you’re paying your landlord, a small business, or sending a gift, knowing how to properly write a check is a must.

✅ Quick Overview: How to Write a Check

  • Date – Write the current date.
  • Payee – Write the name of the person or business receiving the money.
  • Amount (numerical) – Write the amount in numbers (e.g., 125.50).
  • Amount (words) – Write the amount in words (e.g., One hundred twenty-five and 50/100).
  • Memo (optional) – Add a note about the payment (e.g., “April Rent”).
  • Signature – Sign your name exactly as it appears on your bank account.

📄 Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out a Check Correctly

1. Date

Write the date in the top right-hand corner. Use the **MM/DD/YYYY** format (e.g., 05/01/2025).

📝 *Tip: Post-dating a check is legal, but the recipient can still cash it immediately unless you have an agreement.*

2. Pay to the Order of (Payee)

Write the full name of the person or company you're paying on the “Pay to the Order of” line.

✔ Correct: John A. Smith
✖ Avoid: Cash (unless absolutely necessary—it’s risky)

3. Dollar Box (Numerical Amount)

In the small box on the right side, write the amount using numbers and a decimal point.

Example:
💵 $125.50

4. Amount in Words 

Below the “Pay to the Order of” line, write the amount in words. Start at the far left and add “and xx/100” for cents.

Example:
🖊 One hundred twenty-five and 50/100

If the amount is a whole dollar (e.g., $50.00):
✍ Fifty and 00/100

✔ Fill in the rest of the line with a line or dashes to prevent fraud.

5. Memo Line (Optional)

Use the memo field in the bottom left to note the purpose of the check. This can help with record-keeping

  • “April Rent”
  • “Invoice #456”
  • “Birthday Gift”

6. Signature

Sign the check on the bottom right using the same signature you used when opening the bank account.

📌 Unsigned checks are invalid!

🧾 Sample Check (Filled Out Example)

Date: 05/01/2025
Pay to the Order of: John A. Smith
$125.50
One hundred twenty-five and 50/100 dollars
Memo: April Rent
Signature: [Your Signature] 

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Writing the wrong date or post-dating without agreement
  • ❌ Using nicknames or abbreviations in the payee name
  • ❌ Mismatching the amount in numbers and words
  • ❌ Leaving blank spaces that could be tampered with
  • ❌ Forgetting your signature

🛡 How to Keep Your Checks Secure

  • Never leave blank checks lying around
  • Use permanent ink—never pencil
  • Store your checkbook in a safe place
  • If a check is lost, contact your bank immediately to issue a stop payment

🏦 Do People Still Use Checks in the US?

Yes! According to the Federal Reserve Payments Study, billions of checks are still written annually in the U.S., especially for:

  • Rent and landlord payments
  • Business-to-business transactions
  • Utility bills
  • Government payments
  • Donations to churches or charities

🙋‍♀️ FAQ: How to Write a Check in the USA

Q: What happens if I make a mistake on a check?

A: If you make a mistake, it's best to void the check and write a new one. Don't try to overwrite or cross things out.

Q: Can I write a check to myself?

A: Yes, you can write a check to yourself to move money between accounts.

Q: Can I use a check written in cursive or print?

A: Either is fine, as long as it's legible and consistent with your signature on file.

Q: How long is a check valid in the USA?

A: Most checks are valid for 6 months (180 days) from the date written, unless otherwise stated.

🔑 Final Tips on Writing a Check

  • Always double-check your spelling and amounts
  • Keep a check register or log to track outgoing payments
  • Avoid pre-signing blank checks
  • Use your bank’s mobile app or online banking to verify check activity

📌 Summary

  • | Step | What to Do |
  • |------|------------|
  • | 1 | Write the current date |
  • | 2 | Fill in the payee’s full name |
  • | 3 | Write the amount in numbers |
  • | 4 | Spell out the amount in words |
  • | 5 | (Optional) Add a memo |
  • | 6 | Sign the check |

✍️ Still Have Questions?

Drop your question in the comments or check out our full guide on How to Deposit a Check in the USA coming soon.

📢 Share this guide!

If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends, family, or coworkers who might need help writing a check in 2025.

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