How To Void A Check and what to do afterwards

Yes, that seems obvious, I know, but what you void a check with is important. The first step is to get something to write on the check with. Oh, and if you are wondering how to get a check to void, then make sure you read until the end of the post because we have some tips on that too! If you’re unsure how to void a check, then read our quick and easy guide below! Sometimes you write a check but then you need to cancel it. In this post, we’ll cover how to void a check.

There might also be situations like my example above, where a voided check is just the quickest and the best option to set up payroll. And although I am a millennial, I still remember using a “voided check” to set up payroll at one of my first jobs during college. While owning a checkbook and writing checks to many people might seem a bit outdated, there are still plenty who prefer this method. Once you’ve voided a check, it’s essentially disabled and cannot be used any longer. You also don’t have to worry about losing a paper check, having a paper check expire and going through the process of requesting another, or any of the other hassle and headache that traditional paper paychecks inevitably bring to the table. At the very left-hand bottom of the front of your check is going to be your routing number, your account number, and the official check series number (in that order).

Look for this function on your bank’s app. There are some banks which may charge a fee for this service. Ask for a counter check (also known as a starter check). Go to the branch of your bank in person. QuickBooks is a popular accounting program used by business people and self-employed individuals. You cancel a check if you have already sent a check and wish to not let the recipient cash it.

Set Up Automatic Payments

Some places may require a voided check to receive your account information and even get set up an electronic transfer of your money too. You may also need to send a voided check if you need to sell up automatic bill payments or regular investment contributions. When I used to write checks a lot for bills and other payments, occasionally I would write the wrong amount or accidentally spell something incorrectly. A voided check will still have your account details on it but it cannot be used to process any payment.

And now you are an expert at handling this common financial task.
The bank uses the account numbers printed on each check to transfer the funds from your account to the person depositing or cashing it.
A voided check is a check that has the word VOID printed on it, whether handwritten or printed.
When you make an error on a check, it is advised to void it prior to shredding it.
Whether setting up direct deposit or signing up for an automatic payment, it can be necessary to supply a voided check.
This copy serves as a backup in case anything goes wrong in transit, and it's handy for future reference if you need to confirm any account details.

However, a voided check can still be used to gather information about a person’s bank details, such as bank account number, routing number, and check number. No, although it’s common for both a direct deposit form and a voided check to be required and while both have similar information, they are not the same. If you need to provide your bank account information but don’t have any checks, you may have some other options. For example, setting up autopay for your rent, utility bills, or phone bills may require a voided check if you choose to use a direct debit from your bank account. If you don’t have any checks, and you want to set up a direct deposit or automatic electronic payment, there are other ways to do so.

Use a pen or marker that is bold and dark enough so that the writing is visible. Other examples include profits from annuities, mutual funds, deposit certificates, and income from any investments. MoneyLion does not provide, own, control or guarantee third-party products or services accessible through its Marketplace (collectively, “Third-Party Products”). Information, including hypothetical projections of finances, may not take into account taxes, commissions, or other factors which may significantly affect potential outcomes. You should consult your own financial, legal, and tax advisors before engaging in any transaction. This material is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice.

However, it’s also likely you don’t have a checkbook anymore, even if you have multiple bank accounts. This information will allow them to set up a direct deposit for your salary into your bank account. If you recently changed jobs or bank accounts, for example, your employer will want your account information and may ask for a voided check.

This way you can remember why you voided a check later on when you go to balance your checkbook. Do not use a pencil as someone could erase the word "VOID" and try and use the check to withdraw from your account. You would need to write "VOID" in the payment amount box, across the payee line, and on the signature line. You can also write "VOID" in smaller letters over key parts of the check.

Finding Your Account Information

You can also consider making a copy of the blank check first, so you have a record of your account information without the void markings. Before discussing the specific steps, it's crucial to understand that voiding a check is irreversible and requires attention to detail and careful execution. In this article, we’ll explore the exact steps on how to void a check, what to do after you void a check, and common mistakes some people make when voiding a check. Keep track of the money moving through your checking account with convenient Citizens tools available through the mobile app. While producing a voided check is simple and straightforward, it's also important to handle this task with care.

It’s about control, accuracy, and security when sharing banking info. Just make sure not to cover up the routing and account numbers at the bottom. Don’t stress if you’ve never done this before; we’re breaking down the step-by-step process for how to void a check so you can get it done quickly and move on with your day. If it’s no longer needed, shred it or tear it into small pieces, especially the part with your bank info. In large, clear capital letters, write VOID across the middle of the check.

Get a bank letter

Or you simply have some questions regarding this common banking practice.
Bank deposit accounts, such as checking and savings, may be subject to approval.
You usually don’t need to sign a voided check unless the requesting party specifically asks for it.
Yes, writing "VOID" on a check is a standard and valid method for voiding it.
When I used to write checks a lot for bills and other payments, occasionally I would write the wrong amount or accidentally spell something incorrectly.
Write the word “VOID” in large letters, big enough to cover most of the face of the check (except for the banking details we mentioned above).

Most tellers won’t cash a check that has been voided but there have been cases of voided checks that have been cashed. For example, they might accept a bank letter or a voided preprinted deposit slip as verification of your banking information. These checks can be printed on demand and have the same information as a standard check, including your routing number and account number.

So this could be an option if your bank offers them. Sometimes deposit slips can be used instead. Because it allows you to cancel a check that you no longer need but may not want to rip up yet as you need the name or information written on it. Voiding a check can also be done as a safety precaution. This payment could be a mortgage payment, or a car loan payment, for example.

Voiding vs Canceling a Check

Or you simply have some questions regarding this common banking practice. In this guide, we'll walk you through every important detail you should know about how to void a check. You’re asking how to void a check, a rather basic but essential aspect of personal finance. You're sitting at your kitchen table, checkbook in hand, ready to write the check. My job at Fortunly is an opportunity to analyze government policies and banking practices, sharing the results of my research in articles that can help you make better, smarter decisions for yourself and your family. You’ll then be able to grab a pen and void the check in the exact manner we’ve described above.

Step One: Get a pen

You should also note the check number in your check register if you keep one. Make sure that the letters are tall and wide enough to cover most of the check. You will likely need to fill out an online form on your bank’s website, so ensure you have all the relevant information before you begin.

Mortgage or loan payments are due periodically. When you make an error on a check, it is advised to void it prior to shredding it. Let’s take a closer look at a few of these reasons to void a check. For starters, it enables you to share your banking information with your employer in an easy way.

A voided check can help when enrolling in direct deposit. Common reasons include correcting errors on a check, setting up direct deposit, establishing automated payments, or ensuring secure fund transfers. You may not need or want to use a voided check to establish direct deposit rent receipt template with an employer. Some banks provide form letters for setting up direct deposits. Ask your bank to provide you with an official letter that includes your account number, routing number, and account type (checking or savings). If the options above don’t work for you, then you could instead get other documentation from your bank or credit union rather than voiding a check.

You should write with a blue or black pen for this. Voiding a check is simpler than you may think. It has become useless for primary financial transactions. The message is that the check doesn’t count anymore. Civilization became possible only when Sumerians of the Bronze Age invented money.

The check cannot be presented for payment but still has information that can be used to verify your account and which bank holds your account. This information can include your routing number, bank account number, and the name and address of your bank. All you should see is the bank information such as your routing number, account number, and check number, and the word ‘VOID’, which you should have written on the front of the check. As such, it’s a check that banks won’t accept for payment. If you prefer the convenience that online banking provides, then check out Wise.