How To Void a Check: Simple Step-by-Step Guide

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Voiding a check might seem like an old-fashioned skill but it’s still a useful and necessary part of managing your money. Whether you’re setting up direct deposits, authorizing automatic payments or correcting a mistake, knowing how to void a check the right way can save you time and protect your bank account.

Quick Steps To Void a Check

• Write “VOID” across the front.
• Keep routing and account information visible.
• Do not sign the check.
• Store or dispose of it securely.

What Does It Mean To Void a Check?

When you void a check, you essentially mark it as invalid to prevent it from being cashed or deposited.

Here are other key points to know:

• To void a check, write “VOID” in large letters across the front of the check, ensuring that any details like the check number and amount are still visible.
• It’s important to securely store the voided check or discard it safely, as it contains your bank account information, like your routing number.
• A common reason to void a check is if you make a mistake when writing it, such as addressing a wrong payee or writing an incorrect dollar amount.
• You may also need a voided check in order to set up direct deposits to receive payroll, automatic payments or automatic billing.

How To Void a Check in 4 Steps

Here are four steps to take when voiding a check:

1. Take a check from your checkbook.
2. Write “VOID” in large, clear letters across the front of the check using ink.
3. Ensure the information (account number, routing number) remains visible.
4. Store or submit the voided check securely to avoid misuse.

When voiding a check, it’s fine if the word “VOID” covers the entire front of your check and obscures the date, pay to, for and signature lines. Just be sure not to cover the check number. You can also write the word “VOID” on each of these lines instead if you prefer. 

Good To Know

Before attempting to write a voided check, remember to never hand over a blank check to anyone for any reason.

A blank check invites thieves to fill in any desired amount and withdraw money from your checking account.

Why You Might Need To Void a Check

Here are some common reasons why you may need to void a check:

• To set up a direct deposit:
  • You may need to provide a voided check when setting up a direct deposit.
  • The void check provides details like your bank account and routing numbers in a safe, accurate and secure way.
  • A voided check ensures all the information is verifiable and correct so that you can receive payments directly to your bank account.
• To authorize automatic payments:
  • Just like setting up a direct deposit, you may need to provide a voided check to authorize automatic payments.
  • The voided check provides accurate bank account information to the payee.
• To cancel a check you’ve filled out but no longer wish to use:
  • If you made a mistake when filling out a check, or if you no longer wish to use it, you have to void it in order to cancel it.
  • Once the check is properly voided, it’s invalid and cannot be used to withdraw money.

Precautions To Take When Voiding a Check

A voided check is a helpful tool, but only when handled properly. Follow these tips to avoid accidental misuse or security risks.

• Write “VOID” clearly across the entire check. Make sure “VOID” is written over the signature, payee information and dollar amount lines.
• Leave account information legible. Do not write “VOID” over your routing or account numbers as these are necessary for setting up a direct deposit.
• Do not sign the check. Do not sign a voided check as it could appear like you are authorizing a transaction, even if the word “VOID” is written across it.
• Use an ink pen. Do not write in pencil or anything that can be altered or erased.
• Store the voided check in a safe place and record the number. It’s important to make sure you keep your voided check in a safe location. You should also record the check number in your checkbook so you don’t lose track of your expenses.
• Securely destroy the check. If you do not wish to store your voided check, make sure you eliminate it securely, like putting it through a paper shredder.

Why Do You Need a Voided Check for Direct Deposit?

A voided check is often required when setting up direct deposit because it provides accurate banking details, including your account and routing numbers.

Direct deposit is faster, more secure and reduces the risk of check fraud — helping you get paid directly without the hassle of paper checks.

How To Use a Voided Check for Direct Deposit

If you’re wondering how to void a check for direct deposit, the process is straightforward. Here are some tips to follow:

1. Write void across your blank check. Make sure you leave the account and routing information visible and do not sign the voided check.
2. Submit the voided check to the payment provider. You may be asked to submit your voided check by scanning, emailing or uploading it through a secure software or online portal. You may also be required to deliver the voided check in person or via traditional mail.
3. Fill out additional direct deposit forms. Depending on the payee, you may need to fill out additional forms to set up a direct deposit. These forms may require you to provide your bank account information and personal details, like your address and Social Security number.
4. Confirm the direct deposit setup. Once the voided check and any additional forms are received, you may be required to confirm with the payee that all your information is accurate.
5. Store the voided check in a safe place or dispose of it properly. If you mailed or gave a physical copy of the voided check in person, ask the payment provider to do the same.
6. Receive direct deposit payments. Make sure you check your bank account to confirm you received your first direct deposit payment. If you don’t receive the payment, you should reach out to the provider to double check your bank information is accurate in their system.

Alternatives To Voiding a Check

If you don’t have a physical checkbook, here are common alternatives to provide banking information:

• Direct deposit authorization form: Offered by most employers and banks to securely collect account information.
• Online banking portal: Many payment providers now accept electronic verification directly through online banking apps.
• Bank statement: Occasionally, a recent bank statement showing your account and routing number may suffice.

Final Take

Learning how to void a check is a simple but essential banking skill. Writing “VOID” on a blank check and submitting it to your employer allows you to take advantage of the ease of electronic transactions. You may also void a check if you made a mistake or no longer intend to use it.

Just make sure you write void over the payee, dollar amount and signature lines. Do not sign a voided check and be sure to store it somewhere safe or eliminate it securely.

Andrea Norris contributed to the reporting for this article.

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