How to write a check

International Student Orientation

Why necessary?

Even though ATMs are fast becoming the most convenient way to pay for goods and services, many companies and institutions (such as UMass Dartmouth) still require some payments to be made in check form.

Step 1: Date Begin by writing the date on the line

provided mm/dd/yyyye.g. 12/28/2008

Step 2: Pay to the Order of Indicate the name of the person or

company to whom you are writing the check on the line next to Pay to the Order of

Step 3: Dollar Amount Write out the numerical dollar amount that

the check will be cashed for in the box provided.

Step 4: Writing out Dollar Amounts

In the space provided, below Pay to the Order of, write the same dollar amount as previously indicated in words and a fraction for the less-than-dollar amounts. Then use a line to fill in empty space on the line.

Step 5: For/Memo On the bottom left hand corner of the check

there is a line which will say For or Memo. On this line indicate for what purpose the check is being written.

Step 6: Signature On the lower right portion of the check

there will be a blank line for your signature, if the check is to be cashed your signature must be there.

Tips & Warnings Always know the balance(amount available)

because if you don’t know it and overdraw on your account you will be charged a substantial fee by the bank. In addition you may incur other fees

Checkbooks that make duplicate carbon copies of your checks are a good idea as they keep a more accurate record of your transactions.

Keep your account number memorized

Tips & Warnings Cont.. If you give a person a post-dated check

(one that you don’t want cashed until a certain date), let them know so that they are not surprised when the bank does not credit their account immediately.

Destroy your voided checks so that people do not get a hold of your routing number and are then able to counterfeit them.