How to Void a Check: 5 Easy Steps

a check is an essential banking skill that comes in handy when setting up direct deposits, automatic bill payments, or correcting mistakes on a check you’ve written. While it might seem complicated at first, the process for how to void a check is actually straightforward and takes just a few simple steps. 

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What is a voided check?

A voided check is simply a paper check with the word “VOID” written across the front. This marking prevents the check from being used for payment while preserving all the important banking information.

When you void a check, it cannot be deposited or cashed by anyone, but your bank routing number, account number, and personal information still remain visible. This is intentional, since voided checks are a secure way to share your banking details.

Voided checks are purely informational. Employers, service providers, and financial institutions often request voided checks for the following reasons:

• Setting up direct deposits with employers
• Establishing automatic bill payments
• Setting up electronic transfers between accounts
• Verifying your banking information for various financial services

How to void a check in 5 steps

Voiding a check the wrong way can result in delays, confusion, or even identity theft if the check falls into the wrong hands. So let’s walk through how to do it right from the start.

👉 Step 1: Use a blank check

Start with a check that hasn’t been filled out. A blank voided check ensures you’re not voiding something you intended to use for a payment.

👉 Step 2: Write “VOID” in large letters across the front

This is where most people trip up. If you’re asking where to write void on a check, the answer is: right across the front from edge to edge. Use a black or blue pen or a permanent marker so it can’t be altered or erased. Just make sure not to cover up the routing and account numbers at the bottom.

👉 Step 3: Don’t sign the check (unless required)

You usually don’t need to sign a voided check unless the requesting party specifically asks for it. 

👉 Step 4: Make a copy or take a photo

Keep a record in case you need proof of submission. This is especially important if you’re sending the check to an employer or another official institution.

👉 Step 5: Store or dispose of securely

If you’re not submitting the voided check immediately, store it in a safe place. When you no longer need it, shred or rip it up. We’ll break that down in the next section.

If you’re asking how to properly void a check or even how to fill out a voided check, just remember: the goal is to make sure the check can’t be used for payment, but the important bank info (routing and account numbers) are still visible.

Why would you void a check? 

Voiding a check isn’t about being fancy. It’s about control, accuracy, and security when sharing banking info.

✅ Set up direct deposits: If you’ve ever searched for how to void a check for direct deposit, this is why. Employers want to verify your account and routing number, and a voided check gets the job done quickly and accurately.

✅ Set up automatic payments or debit transfers: Utilities, mortgage companies, and service providers may ask for a voided check to pull funds from your account automatically. It’s a reliable way to confirm your info without relying on you to type everything in correctly.

✅ Made a mistake: Let’s say you wrote a check but messed up the amount or recipient. Don’t panic. Just write “VOID” across it. This signals that the check shouldn’t be cashed and keeps your records clean. If you’re wondering how do you void a check you’ve already written, this is it.

✅ Verify banking information: Sometimes financial institutions want to double-check your account details. Instead of emailing sensitive numbers, they’ll ask for a voided check. It’s a safer and more standardized method.

Learn More: The Ultimate List of Fraud Prevention Do’s and Don’ts

What to do with a voided check

So you’ve voided the check, now what?

Keep it: You might want to hold onto the voided check for your records, especially if it contains important transaction details or was used to verify information with an employer or lender.

Dispose of it: If you’re done with it and no longer need it, tear it up, shred it, or use a secure document disposal service. A voided check still has your account and routing numbers, and that’s not something you want floating around.

If you’re dealing with a check that never made it to its destination, you could be wondering how to void a check that was lost. In that case, notify your bank ASAP, monitor your account for suspicious activity, and stop payment on the check if necessary.

Stay In Control of Your Banking Info

Learning how to void a check might not sound glamorous, but it’s a simple skill that helps protect your money and your identity. Whether you’re setting up payroll, verifying an account, or fixing a mistake, the key is doing it cleanly and securely.

Write “VOID” clearly. Keep a record. Don’t toss it in the trash without tearing it up. That’s the playbook.

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