Creating Checks That Work: A Practical Example & Step-by-Step Guide

While digital banking has transformed how we handle finances, the humble check remains a reliable payment method in many situations. Whether you’re settling bills, receiving a paycheck, or making a professional payment, understanding how to write a check example correctly ensures your transaction goes through smoothly. This comprehensive guide covers everything from identifying check components to depositing and ordering checks.

Essential Check Components and Numbers You Must Identify

Before you pick up a pen to complete a check, you need to understand the structure of a check. Every printed check contains three critical numerical identifiers that serve different purposes:

Bank Routing Number is a nine-digit code unique to your financial institution. Banks use this identifier to process transactions, especially for online transfers and direct deposits. Think of it as your bank’s ID card in the financial system.

Account Number is the specific identification code for your individual checking account. This number distinguishes your account from all others at the same bank.

Check Number appears in two places on your check—in the upper right corner and after your account number. This sequential numbering helps you track which checks you’ve issued and maintain organization in your check register.

Knowing these three numbers allows you to understand how your check flows through the banking system and helps with record-keeping and reconciliation.

Step-by-Step: Writing Your Check with a Practical Example

To illustrate how to write a check example, let’s walk through filling out a check for a utility bill. Understanding each component ensures your check is valid and reaches the right place.

The Date Matters: In the upper right corner, write the current date. This timestamp tells the recipient when you issued the check and is legally significant for payment verification. If you’re paying your electric company on February 18, 2026, enter that date exactly.

Enter the Recipient’s Name: On the line marked “Pay to the Order of,” write the exact legal name of who should receive the payment. Precision is important here—if paying ABC Electric, verify the correct legal entity name from your bill before writing. Misspelled recipient names can delay or prevent payment.

Amount in Numerals: In the box on the right side of the check, write the payment amount using numbers (e.g., $113.97). Place this amount as far left as possible within the box to prevent fraud. If someone tried to add digits to the left, the spacing would make it obvious.

Amount in Words: Below the “Pay to the Order of” line, spell out the dollar amount in words. For $113.97, you’d write “One hundred thirteen dollars and 97/100.” This written version is legally binding if it conflicts with the numerical amount—one reason banks consider this part so important.

Memo Line: While optional, adding a note here helps you track the payment’s purpose later. When paying utilities, many companies ask you to include your account number on this line. This small detail ensures your payment gets applied to the correct account.

Your Signature: Sign your name on the line in the bottom right corner. Without a valid signature, the check cannot be processed—your signature is your authorization to transfer these funds.

After completing all fields, review the check one final time before mailing it. Recording this transaction in a check register helps you track spending and prevent overdrafts.

Protecting Your Checks: Security and Record-Keeping

Checks are susceptible to fraud if you’re not careful about how you handle them. Implementing smart security practices protects your finances and prevents headaches.

Keep Detailed Records of every check you write. Whether you use a traditional check register, spreadsheet, or banking app, document the check number, date, payee name, transaction description, and amount. These records become invaluable during monthly reconciliation and if disputes arise.

Reconcile Monthly by comparing your records against your bank statement. This process, called bank reconciliation or balancing your checkbook, reveals any discrepancies and confirms that all transactions have cleared properly. Monthly reconciliation gives you a clear picture of your financial health.

Fraud Prevention Measures protect your account:

• Always use pen rather than pencil—pencil can be erased
• Never sign blank checks
• Don’t pre-sign checks before filling in the payee and amount
• Avoid making checks payable to “Cash,” as anyone can cash them
• Leave no blank spaces on the check where fraudsters could add information
• Don’t leave checks unattended in unsecured locations

These precautions significantly reduce your vulnerability to check fraud and unauthorized alterations.

Receiving and Depositing Checks: Endorsement Methods

When you receive a check, you must endorse it before depositing or cashing it. Check endorsement is a security measure that verifies you’re the intended recipient.

Blank Endorsement is the simplest method—just sign the back of the check. No additional instructions appear on the check, so you’ll tell the teller whether you want it cashed or deposited. While this works for ATM and mobile deposits, it’s the least secure option since anyone holding the signed check could attempt to cash it.

Secure Endorsement adds protection by writing “For Deposit Only to Account Number [your account number]” and then signing below. Wait until you’re ready to deposit before signing using this method, maximizing security. This approach prevents someone from cashing a lost or stolen check.

Third-Party Endorsement allows you to transfer a check to another person without re-depositing and writing a new check. Write “Pay to the order of [recipient’s name]” and sign as normal. However, not all banks accept this practice, so check your bank’s policy first.

Business Endorsement requires an authorized company representative to sign the back. The endorsement should include the business name, the representative’s signature, their job title, and any restrictions such as “For Deposit Only.”

Multiple Payee Situations require attention to how the check was written. If made out to “Jane and John Doe” (with “and”), both must endorse it. If written as “Jane or John Doe” (with “or”), either party can endorse it alone.

Depositing Your Check can happen through several methods:

• In-person: Visit your bank branch with your endorsed check and identification
• ATM: Use your bank’s ATM, which typically guides you through the process
• Mobile Deposit: Most banking apps allow you to photograph the front and back of an endorsed check for deposit

Hold onto the check until it clears and funds appear in your account, then safely destroy it.

Ordering More Checks and Managing Your Checking Account

Eventually, you’ll exhaust your current supply and need to order more. Many banks provide initial checks when opening an account, but subsequent orders usually have a cost.

Ordering Channels include:

• Your bank’s website or mobile app (most convenient)
• Your bank branch in person
• Your bank’s customer service phone line
• Third-party check suppliers (sometimes partnered with your bank)

When ordering, have an existing check nearby since it contains all the information needed: your account number, routing number, bank details, and contact information. Note your last check number so new orders start with the correct sequential number.

Cost Considerations vary by supplier and design choice. Basic personal checks cost less than personalized designs with logos or images. Comparing options between your bank and third-party suppliers might reveal savings.

Managing your checking account effectively means understanding these processes and staying organized with records and reconciliation. Your checking account becomes more valuable when you use it strategically and responsibly.

Answers to Common Questions About Checks

Is it legal to write post-dated checks? In most cases, yes—but state laws vary. A post-dated check carries a future date, sometimes issued when someone is paying early or has insufficient current funds. Check your specific state’s regulations for clarity.

What’s required when writing a check to the IRS? Beyond standard check information, you must include your name, address, daytime phone number, Social Security number or EIN, the tax year, and the related tax form or notice number. Make the check payable to “U.S. Treasury,” not the IRS. Contact the IRS or a tax professional for the correct mailing address.

Can you deposit checks at an ATM? Many banks and credit unions allow ATM check deposits. Insert your debit card, enter your PIN, and follow on-screen instructions. Contact your bank to confirm they offer this service and understand any specific requirements.

Is writing a check to yourself legal? Yes, absolutely. This method allows you to withdraw cash or transfer funds between your own accounts. Simply write your name on the payee line and proceed normally.

Why should I still care about checks in a digital world? While mobile and peer-to-peer payment apps like Venmo and PayPal dominate, checks remain necessary for certain transactions—paying large amounts, making official business payments, or when recipients don’t accept digital payments. Understanding check fundamentals ensures you can handle any payment situation with confidence.