Writing a check is easy but may be confusing if you rarely write one. These steps and online resources can help you navigate the process.

Six easy steps

• NOTE: Use blue or black ink. Checks written in other colors do not scan well and require extra processing at the credit union.
   
• NOTE: For all fields, you may write either in cursive or printed letters.
   

1. Write the date on the upper-right line in one of these formats:
   October 26, 2023
   Oct. 26, 2023
   10/26/23
   10-26-23
    
2. On the "Pay to" line, write the full name of the person, company or organization to whom you are paying funds.
   Be sure to include any prefix, such as Ms., or any suffix, such as Jr., Sr., III or PhD.
    
3. On the line after the dollar sign, write the amount of the check in numerals, including both dollars and cents. For example, if the check is for twenty dollars, write 20.00.
   Be sure to write the first number right next to the dollar sign, so that a forger cannot write in an extra digit.
    
4. On the line underneath the "Pay to" line, write the amount of the check using words instead of numbers. For cents, write the number as a fraction: the number of cents, then a slash, then 100. (If the amount of the check does not include cents, the fraction is optional.) In any extra space on that line, be sure to make a long dash all the way to the word "Dollars."
   Examples:
   Twenty & no/100------------------------
   Twenty & 00/100------------------------
   Twenty-----------------------------------
   One thousand twenty-three & 45/100-----------[1,023.45]
   Twelve hundred thirty-four & 56/100------------[1,234.56]
   Three thousand four hundred fifty-six & 78/100----[3,456.78]
   
   NOTE: Write the amount starting on the far left edge of the line, so that forgers cannot add an extra amount.
    
5. OPTIONAL: on the memo line in the lower-left corner, you can write a note about the purpose of the check:
   November rent
   Softball dues
   Account: 987654-321
    
6. On the line at the lower-right corner, sign your name as it is signed on file at the credit union. Your signature is usually your first and last name in either cursive writing or printed letters — both are acceptable.

Online resources

WikiHow: How to Write a Check

The Balance: How to Write a Check

YouTube - Julia Hatmaker: How to Write a Check [0:45]

Need help?

Contact the credit union with any questions, large or small. We're here to help.