Before payment apps like PayPal, Venmo and Zelle were in the mainstream, paper checks were the norm. But do you know how to write one?

Date – Write today's date in the top-right corner. 

Pay to the Order Of – Write the name of the person or company you're paying. 

Amount (numbers) – Write the amount in numbers in the small box (e.g., 125.50). Do not leave enough space for someone else to add a zero or change the 1 to a 4.  While such changes are rare, considering such possibilities makes you much more resilient to such attempts.

Amount (words) – Write the same amount in words on the line: 

• Example: One hundred twenty-five and 50/100 

  • After writing One hundred twenty five dollars and 50/100, add a long line to fill up  the space after the words. While not required, it adds a safety measure, preventing other words to be added.)  

  • See a check (payment) that cleared your account that you did not authorize?   Contact your bank or credit union immediately to inform them of the altered item.

Memo (optional) – Note what the payment is for (e.g., "June rent" or "Birthday gift"). 

Signature – Sign the check in the bottom-right corner. 

Example for a payment of $125.50 to John Smith:

• Date: June 20, 2026 
• Pay to the Order Of: John Smith 
• Amount box: $125.50 
• Amount line: One hundred twenty-five and 50/100 dollars 
• Memo: Lawn service 
• Signature: Your signature 

For additional guidance and examples, see Bank accounts and services | Consumer Financial Protection Bureau