Writing checks
Though check writing may seem to be a simple thing, many first-time users of checking accounts have trouble with the basics.
- Always use permanent blue or black ink to prevent tampering with amounts on checks.
- Store financial documents in a locked, safe place to make sure your personal information is always secure and available only to you.
- Never sign a blank check. Ever.
- Always fill the check out completely.
- Write your initials in blue or black ink beside any corrections to mistakes you make.
- Always write VOID across a check you don't use.
- Check your monthly bank statements to make sure all debits (withdrawals) and credits (deposits) are accurate.
- Report any mistakes on your monthly statement immediately. Banks do make mistakes and are required by law to reconcile their errors in a timely manner.
- Track all transactions in your check register and reconcile your account frequently. The more often you do it, the easier it is to maintain.
Tip
If your bank has online banking access, check your account balance and transactions daily to ensure you find mistakes quickly and know how much money you have on hand at all times. Verify that the transactions match what you've recorded in your check register. If you forgot to write in a transaction, you can easily make the correction to keep your register up to date.