I. Introduction
Writing a check may seem like a simple task, but it requires attention to detail. One of the most important things to get right is how to write numbers in words on a check. Failing to do so can lead to errors and even rejected checks. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to properly write numbers in words on a check and avoid common mistakes.
II. 7 Easy Steps to Write Numbers in Words on a Check
Here are the seven easy steps to write numbers in words on a check:
A. Step 1: Write the date in full
Write the current date on the line provided at the top right corner of the check. It should be in full format (e.g. January 1, 2022), not abbreviated.
B. Step 2: Write the name of the payee
Write the name of the person or organization you are paying on the line that says “Pay to the order of.” Make sure to spell the name correctly to avoid any issues.
C. Step 3: Write the amount in numeric form
Write the amount you are paying in numeric form in the box provided on the right-hand side. Make sure to include cents if there are any. For example, if you are paying $25.90, write “25.90” in the box.
D. Step 4: Write the amount in words
Write the amount you are paying in words on the line below the payee’s name. Start writing as close to the left-hand side of the check as possible, leaving no room for anyone to add any extra numbers. For example, if you are paying $25.90, you would write “Twenty-five dollars and 90/100” or “Twenty-five dollars and ninety cents.”
E. Step 5: Indicate cents in numbers
On the line immediately after the amount in words, write the cents as a fraction over 100. For example, if you are paying $25.90, you would write “90/100.”
F. Step 6: Draw a line after the amount
Draw a line after the amount and cents to prevent anyone from adding extra numbers.
G. Step 7: Sign the check
The last step is to sign the check in the bottom right-hand corner. Sign it using your legal name as it appears on your bank account.
III. Avoid Common Mistakes: How to Properly Write Numbers on a Check
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing numbers on a check:
A. Spelling errors
Make sure to spell out the payee’s name and the amount in words correctly. Double-check the spelling to avoid any issues.
B. Missing or incorrect decimals
Make sure to include the decimal point and write the cents as a fraction over 100. For example, if you are paying $25.90, you would write “25.90” in the box and “Ninety cents” on the line below.
C. Incorrect placement of commas
Make sure to place commas correctly when writing the amount in words. For example, if you are paying $2,500.00, you would write “Two thousand five hundred dollars and 00/100” on the line below.
D. Avoid using shorthand
Do not use shorthand or abbreviations when writing out the amount in words. Write out the full amount to avoid any confusion or potential for fraud.
E. Double-checking your work
Always double-check your work before submitting the check to make sure everything is correct. This can prevent issues with the check being rejected or returned.
IV. Demystifying Check Writing: Writing Numbers in Words
Writing numbers in words on a check may seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple. Here’s how it works:
A. Explanation of spelling numbers in words
When writing numbers in words, follow a few basic rules. Write numbers one through nine in word form (“one,” “two,” “three,” etc.). Write numbers 10 and above in numerical form (“10,” “11,” “12,” etc.), except for numbers that are multiples of 10 (e.g. 20, 30, 40, etc.). Write “twenty,” “thirty,” “forty,” etc. for these numbers.
B. Pronunciation guide
Here’s a quick guide to how each number is pronounced:
- 1: one
- 2: two
- 3: three
- 4: four
- 5: five
- 6: six
- 7: seven
- 8: eight
- 9: nine
- 10: ten
- 11: eleven
- 12: twelve
- 13: thirteen
- 14: fourteen
- 15: fifteen
- 16: sixteen
- 17: seventeen
- 18: eighteen
- 19: nineteen
- 20: twenty
- 30: thirty
- 40: forty
- 50: fifty
- 60: sixty
- 70: seventy
- 80: eighty
- 90: ninety
- 100: one hundred
- 1,000: one thousand
- 10,000: ten thousand
C. Difference between dollars and cents
When writing out the amount in words, remember to include the word “dollars” after the number. For example, “twenty-five dollars.” When writing the cents, use the word “cents” or write the fraction over 100. For example, “twenty-five dollars and 75/100” or “twenty-five dollars and seventy-five cents.”
D. Rules for writing numbers in words
Remember to capitalize the first letter of the first word when spelling out the amount in words. Use hyphens when writing compound numbers (e.g. twenty-one, fifty-six). Do not use “and” when writing whole-number amounts. For example, write “two thousand dollars” instead of “two thousand and dollars.”
V. The Dos and Don’ts of Writing Numerals on your Check
Aside from writing numbers in words correctly, here are some other dos and don’ts when writing numerals on your check:
A. Dos
- Use black or blue ink
- Write legibly
- Cross out any blank spaces
B. Don’ts
- Use pencil or red ink
- Alter or write over mistakes
- Leave blank spaces
VI. Mastering the Basics: Writing Numbers in Words on Checks
Understanding the various parts of a check is important when it comes to properly writing numbers in words. Here are a few other important details to keep in mind:
A. Understanding the parts of a check
A check typically has several parts, including the date, the payee’s name, the amount (in both numeric and word form), and the signature line.
B. Other important details to include
When writing the amount in words, remember to include both dollars and cents. Write out the full date in the top right-hand corner. Include any additional details requested by the payee, such as an account number or invoice number.
C. Examples for practice
Practice writing out amounts in words on a blank check. Try creating different scenarios with various amounts to get comfortable with the process.
VII. Check Writing 101: A Guide to Writing Numbers in Words
Proper check writing is important for financial transactions. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
A. Importance of writing numbers in words
Writing numbers in words is important to avoid fraud and ensure that the correct amount is transferred. It also helps to make it clear for the payee.
B. Benefits of proper check writing
Proper check writing can establish financial credibility and prevent issues with bank account overdrafts or rejected checks. It can also make it easier when it comes to tracking expenses or budgeting.
C. Additional tips for successful check writing
Double-check your work for any mistakes, avoid procrastinating when it comes to writing checks, and reconcile your bank statements regularly to ensure accurate records.
VIII. Conclusion
By following these steps and tips, you can become a pro at writing numbers in words on a check. Remember to double-check your work and avoid common mistakes. With a little bit of practice, writing a check can become a simple and stress-free process.
So why not give it a try? Write a check for your next bill or expense and feel confident in your ability to properly write numbers in words on a check.
