How to void a check

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Have you ever been asked to provide a voided check to set up direct deposit or automatic bill payments? Voiding a check is a simple yet essential skill every checking account holder should master.

What is a voided check?

A voided check is a check from your checkbook that you have marked as invalid for deposits or payments. It’s a check that you have intentionally rendered unusable for financial transactions.

When you write a check to someone, you typically fill in their name and the amount you wish to pay. The recipient can then take the check to their bank, deposit it, or receive cash. When you void a check, you're essentially nullifying its ability to be deposited or cashed.

You may be required to provide a voided check when setting up transactions that involve your checking account. One common example is when your employer requests a voided check to set up direct deposits for your paycheck. 

Failing to void a check correctly is the equivalent of handing someone a blank check with your account details on it. A fraudster could use an improperly voided check to withdraw funds from your account without your consent.

Voided checks vs. canceled checks 

When you void a check, you don't intend to use it to pay someone. Instead, you are providing it for informational reasons only, such as setting up direct deposit or automatic payments.

Canceled checks are copies of checks you've written that have already been deposited and processed by your bank. These are often used as proof of payment or deposit and can usually be accessed through your bank app. 

How to void a check in five steps 

Voiding a check is a simple process that requires only a blank check and a pen. Follow these simple steps to void a check properly:

1. Write “VOID” in large letters 

Take a blank check from your checkbook and write "VOID" in large, clear letters across the front of the check. Ensure the word covers a large portion of the check, making it obvious that the check is not to be used.

2. Write “VOID” in key fields 

In addition to writing "VOID" across the front of the check, you should also write it in the key fields of the check. This includes the payee line, the payment amount box, and the signature line. Doing so makes it clear that the check is not to be filled out or used for any purpose.

3. Write “VOID” on the back of the check

Flip the check over and write "VOID" in large letters across the back as well. This provides an additional layer of protection and ensures that the check cannot be endorsed or deposited.

4. Keep important information visible 

When voiding the check, be careful not to obscure important information such as the check number, bank routing number, or account number. The person or organization requesting the voided check will need these details, which are usually found at the bottom of the check.

5. Make a copy for your records

Before handing over the voided check, consider making a copy for your personal records. This can serve as proof that the check was properly voided and can be useful if any issues arise in the future.

Why would you need a voided check?

There are several situations where you may be required to provide a voided check, particularly when you need to share your account information with a third party. Let's explore some of the most common scenarios in which a voided check comes in handy.

Setting up direct deposit 

One of the primary reasons you might need a voided check is to set up direct deposit with your employer. Direct deposit is a convenient way to receive your paycheck without using a physical check. When you start a new job or decide to switch to direct deposit, your employer's payroll department will likely request a voided check from you.

By providing a voided check, you're giving your employer all the necessary information they need to deposit your paycheck directly into your account. This includes your bank's routing number and your account number.

Arranging automatic bill payments 

Many utility companies, credit card issuers, and other service providers offer the option to have your bills automatically deducted from your checking account each month. This can be a convenient way to ensure your bills are paid on time without the hassle of remembering to send a payment manually.

To set up automatic bill payments, the company you're paying will typically ask for a voided check. 

Proving account ownership 

You may need to use a voided check to prove that you are the rightful owner of a bank account. This situation might arise when you're applying for a loan, opening a new account, or dealing with legal matters that require proof of your assets.

This can be especially useful if you're required to provide proof of account ownership but don't have other readily available documentation, such as a bank statement or account verification letter.

Alternatives to using a voided check

While voiding a check is a common method for providing your banking information, it's not the only option available. If you don't have a checkbook or feel uncomfortable sharing a voided check, consider these alternatives:

• Account verification letters: Many banks offer account verification letters, which serve as official proof of your account ownership. They contain your account and routing numbers. You can often download these letters directly from your bank's website. 
• Deposit slips: If your checkbook comes with deposit slips, these can also be used as an alternative to voided checks. Deposit slips have your account information pre-printed on them, including your routing and account numbers. While their purpose is to make cash deposits at a bank branch, deposit slips contain the same information as a voided check.
• Direct information entry: In some cases, you can simply provide your account and routing numbers directly to the party requesting your banking information. This is particularly common when linking bank accounts online, such as when setting up direct deposit with a new employer or connecting your bank account to a digital payment platform. 

Keeping your voided checks secure 

When handling voided checks, security is essential. Checks contain sensitive information about you and your bank account, which fraudsters could use to access your funds. Even after voiding a check, it's important to follow best practices for protecting your financial information.

“Usually, you are giving someone a voided check so that they can look up your account number or routing number for a reason,” says Jay Zigmont, PhD, CFP®, and founder of Childfree Wealth.  “Understand what they are doing with your account information.”

To keep your voided checks secure, follow these guidelines:

• Keep your voided checks in a secure location, such as a locked drawer or safe, until you need to provide them. 
  When you no longer need a voided check, dispose of it properly by shredding it. Avoid simply tossing it in the trash, as this leaves your information vulnerable to theft.
• Only share voided checks with trusted people, and make sure you understand why they need your information. If you're unsure about a request, contact your bank.
• If you need to send a voided check electronically, use a secure method like encrypted email or a password-protected file-sharing service. Avoid sending sensitive financial information through unsecured channels.

Being cautious about how you store, share, and dispose of voided checks can help protect your banking information from falling into the wrong hands. Remember, a little extra vigilance can go a long way in maintaining the security of your financial accounts.

Frequently asked questions about voided checks 

Bottom line

Voided checks are commonly used to provide checking account information for setting up direct deposits, automatic bill payments, or proving account ownership.

When voiding a check, always follow the proper steps to ensure that your sensitive information is protected. If you're unsure about the process, reach out to your bank for assistance. Always keep voided checks secure and only share them with trusted people to protect your sensitive information.

Editorial disclosure: Opinions expressed are author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.