How to Properly Cancel a Check
Many people have good reasons to cancel their checks. They may wish to void a misspelled check. Sometimes people accidentally write the wrong amount on a check, so the check needs to be voided. Sometimes, voided checks are required to set up direct deposit, or even electronic bill payments may be required. It’s not difficult to cancel a check. Of course, be sure to invalidate your check to prevent anyone from fraudulently using your check. To learn how to properly cancel a check, it’s important to keep the following tips in mind.
Avoid dominating property
If you want to clear checks that are still held by you, you will need a pen. You should avoid pencils as this removes the lead. Pen ink is permanent. The key is to use a writing instrument, which uses indelible ink. Those who are fraudulent can easily erase your “invalid” flag and write themselves a check.
Write the word “Void”
You will need to write “VOID” on the check that is usually paid to the recipient. Anyone who sees “VOID” on the payee line of a check will understand that your check is legally voided, even if the amount listed or the check happens to be signed, it’s a piece of useless paper, avoid The check is no longer viable or usable, and the amount is written cannot be cashed or used to pay the bill.
Add “VOID” to the payment box
Even if you’ve written an amount in the payment box, write “NOT” on it in dark ink. Blanking the main part of your check ensures that your check is used as little fraudulently as possible. Make sure you write the words as clearly as possible to avoid “VOID” errors.
Don’t skip the signature box
Yes, you should most definitely enter “VOID” again on the line you would normally sign on a check. Even if you have signed the check, be sure to write “VOID” above your signature in dark permanent ink. Many people are surprised that identity thieves can steal your money. Writing blanks in every major part of a check reduces the likelihood that someone will use it for fraud and use it to steal your money.
Both sides of the check are invalid
To prevent someone from finding an uncashed check and using it for nefarious purposes, you can also write “VOID” in capital letters on the front and back of the check. Some people just take the step of capitalizing blanks on the front of the check. However, there is also added security to write blanks in multiple places on the check to invalidate it.
keep a record
Naturally, you should keep a record of all voided checks. This is easy to do if you keep a paper record of your checks, but you can also do so on an online bank account. It also helps to add a quick note on why you canceled the check. You may have written the wrong amount. You may have written your check to the wrong payee.
decline direct deposit
For example, many times you may be asked to provide an invalid check if you are signing up for direct deposit into your account from your employer. Employers can keep checks to obtain a copy of the bank’s transfer number and checking account number. The payer needs this information to transfer funds to your account.
How to Cancel Checking Direct Deposit
If you leave a check for a vacancy with your employer, follow all the steps listed earlier in this list. Make sure every major section you check contains the word “VOID”. Rather than using any non-descriptive pen ink, consider using a Sharpie or writing instrument to make it clear that it’s permanent ink. This way, if your check is lost, it cannot be changed.
Void Online
You can also cancel checks online if desired. Today, most online banks allow their customers to use a quick “stop payment order” to void online checks. Typically, you will need to log into your online checking account. You may need to visit the Customer Service section to find out how your particular bank has set up this feature. If you’re in trouble, you can always contact your bank and they can walk you through the process of stopping your payment, which essentially voids your check.
Double-check the information
If you do need to stop paying but are not sure if the online payment is correct, call your bank. However, make sure you have all the relevant information handy so bank staff can help you with the process. You will need the date of the check, the check number, and what the check is for. With these tips in mind, you can successfully and safely cancel checks.