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How to write a voided check

Writing a voided check is an essential part of some financial transactions, particularly direct deposit, which is a way to electronically receive payments owed to you by having the money directly deposited into your checking or savings account.
 
A voided check is typically used to provide the payor (person giving you the money) with your name, bank account number, and bank routing number so they can accurately set up their payment to you. There are several ways to write a voided check that will provide the company, government agency, or individual with this information.
 
Read on to learn more about how to write a void check and how to void a check.

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What is a voided check?

A voided check is blank paper check with the word "VOID" written across it. This indicates that the check cannot be used for making a payment from your checking account. Voiding a check connected to your checking account is typically done so the check can be used for information purposes only, such as providing your account number and bank routing number.
 
You may also be wondering, what is a voided check for direct deposit?
 
This is a check that is needed by the employer or agency which will be paying you by directly depositing pay into your checking account. Providing a void check for direct deposit ensures that the money will go into the correct bank and account.

Why you might need to void a check

When setting up direct deposit or another form of electronic payment into your bank account, it's important that your account information be clear and accurate. One way to guarantee this is to provide a voided check which has printed on it your unique account number and the bank’s routing number. These are the most common reasons why you might need to void a check:
 
To set up direct deposit. When you set up direct deposit of payments owed to you, you won’t receive a paper check for that payment because the funds will be electronically deposited by the payer into the account(s) you specify. For convenience and security many people choose to have their employer make direct deposit of payroll, so money is accessible sooner.
 
To set up an ACH transfer. ACH stands for Automated Clearing House which is the primary system that agencies use for electronic funds transfer (EFT). Setting up an ACH transfer of funds typically requires a voided check from the account holder who will receive the funds, in order to verify the individual's account number and bank routing number.
 
Scheduling electronic bill payments. Electronic and online bill payments are made through the use of an electronic funds transfer, which may also require your account information to ensure the accuracy of the transfer.
 
When you make a mistake. If you're paying bills or writing a check to pay someone and realize you've made a mistake on the check, such as writing the wrong date or amount, simply write "void" across the front of the check and write a new check with the correct information.
 
Government benefits. Payments from U.S. government agencies, such as Social Security, can be direct deposited into your credit union or bank account. You can also request that you IRS tax refunds be direct deposited.
 
How to void a check
Understanding how to void a check is an important part of banking that most people don't consider until they are asked to write a voided check. It's easy to create a voided check for direct deposit. Just follow these step-by-step instructions:
 
Find a blank check. For ease of record keeping, use the first blank (unused) check that's available in your check book.
 
Use a blue or black permanent marker. If you do not have a marker, a blue or black pen can be used. These colors are difficult to remove, should your check fall into the hands of a criminal.
 
Write the word "VOID" on the front of the check. You can write "void" across the center of the check in the amount line, amount box, or signature line. When voiding a check be sure not to cover up your name, address, or numeric account information which appears at the bottom of the check.
 
Make a copy of the voided check. Retain a copy for your records either by making a photocopy or taking a photo of the check. You may want to ask your employer or whomever you are submitting the check to, if they will accept the image so you can keep the original.

What to do if you don't have checks

If you do not have a bank account, checking account, or you cannot get bank checks, there are other ways you can provide essential information to set up direct deposit or make payments by check.
 
Direct deposit form. Ask your financial institution for a direct deposit form, which would include the financial institution’s routing number. Just complete the form with your name, account number, and other information, and give the form to your employer or the source of payment.
 
Bank letter. You may request that a credit union or bank representative from your financial institution provide you with an official letter containing your account number and the bank's routing number. The letter should be signed by a bank representative.
 
Submitting your banking information online. Most financial institutions provide online banking forms that can be used to verify and provide your account and routing numbers for setting up direct deposit and automatic payments.

How to void a check after sending it

There are times when you may realize you made a mistake on a check you wrote, or you change your mind about the transaction you've paid for by check. There are two main ways to void a check after writing it.
 

1. Call your bank or credit union. Speak to a representative and let them know you want to issue a "stop payment order."
2. Request a stop payment online. If you are not able to visit or contact your financial institution, you may be able to issue a stop payment order through their desktop or mobile banking app.

Security tips for voided checks

As with all financial transactions, there are security risks. Here are some tips for keeping your account secure when you have given someone a voided check.
 
Only share with known entities. Do not give a voided check to just anyone, especially if you do not personally know the individual or organization requesting the check. Actions such as setting up direct deposit with your employer through their finance or human resources department or setting up auto pay with your local water or electric utility services provider, are generally safe.
 
Don't include personal information. Do not write your Social Security number or your account's personal identification number (PIN) on a voided check. The only information a depositor needs is your account number and bank routing number, which are already printed on the checks in your check book.
 
Monitor accounts. After submitting a voided check, it's recommended that you monitor your account for any unusual deposits and withdrawals. Typically, the depositor will make a "test" deposit into your account to ensure that the account information you've provided is accurate and valid. Test amounts are typically no larger than a few cents, not hundreds of dollars.
 
Report lost or stolen checks. If your voided check is lost, misplaced, or stolen, notify your credit union or bank immediately so they can secure your account.
 
Destroy unused voided checks. Once your direct deposit or automatic payments are set up you may destroy the voided check if it is returned to you. (Some banks return checks to you after they have cleared.) Any unused voided checks you've written may also be destroyed. Simply shred or tear up the check into small pieces before throwing it in the garbage.
 
Consider using secure disposal services. Services are available that provide secure shredding and disposal of documents. Some retail stores including Office Depot, UPS, and FedEx may provide these services in your area.

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