Learning how to write a check is only part of the process of writing a check. It’s equally important to learn how to fill out a deposit slip as well learning how to properly use a checkbook register. Step by step instructions on how to write a check, fill out a deposit slip and use a check register properly.
How to Write a Check
It’s important to know that writing a check is just like using cash. Once the check is written and given as payment for a debt, the check is treated like cash. There are six basic components to writing a check.
- Date: The date is where the current date that the check is written. Since a check is legally treated just like cash, post dating (a date in the future) a check doesn’t really mean that the person cashing the check has to wait until the date of the check. The date can be written like 11/23/2011 or it can be written like November 23, 2011.
- Pay to the Order Of: This is where the persons name or business name is written that will be cashing the check. Generally the person or business to which the check is written is the only ones that can cash the check, unless they sign over the check to another person or business. This is also known as a third party check.
- First Dollar Amount: There are two places on the check to write the dollar amount that the check is to be written for. The first place is to the right of “pay to the order of”. This dollar amount is written numerically, for example $1,234.89.
- Second Dollar Amount: The second place to write the amount is below the “pay to the order of” and is actually spelled out. For example one thousand two hundred thirty four and 89/100 or it can be spelled out as twelve hundred thirty four and 89/100. The word “dollar” will usually be printed on the check and proceed the amount.
- Signature: The check is no good without a signature. The signature and the name imprinted on the check should match. The signature is located on the bottom right side of the check.
- Memo: The memo is located on the bottom left of the check and anything can be written as a reminder to the check writer or check recipient. If paying a bill it’s a good idea to put the account number in the memo field. If paying a debt off it’s also recommended to write, “paid in full” on the memo area of the check.
Deposit Slips, Checkbook Register and Check Writing
Writing a check is only part of the process of check writing. The second step is to learn how to fill out a deposit slip. After learning how to write a check and fill out a deposit slip, the third step of check writing is learning how to use a check register to record the transactions of the checking account.