How to write a check?

A check is a payable on demand financial item, meaning it is negotiable once written. Checks are not meant to be post dated or future dated.

Anatomy of a Check

1. Date - date when the check is written (no future dating)
2. Maker – the person who writes the check or the name printed on the check
3. Payee – the person or business for whom the check is written
4. Signature line or lines - signature of person writing the check
5. Written amount - the amount written in numbers
6. Legal amount - the amount written in words
7. Check number – printed numbers on the check, each check has a different number
8. Banking information - name of the bank and the number of the American Banking Association
9. Routing number – at the bottom of the check
10. Account number – at the bottom of the check