How to Write a Check at Chase Bank

The basic steps for writing a Chase check

Writing a check at Chase is straightforward once you know where each piece of information goes. A check has six main blanks: the date, the payee name, the amount in numbers, the amount in words, a memo line, and your signature. You fill these in the same way whether you bank at Chase or anywhere else — the form itself is standard across all banks.

Your Chase checks come pre-printed with your account number, routing number, and bank information at the bottom. You do not need to write these. You only need to fill in the blanks that are empty on the check itself.

Key Takeaways

• Write the date in the top right corner, using the format month/day/year or the full month name — either way is correct.
• Write the payee name (the person or business receiving the money) on the "Pay to the Order of" line, and use the exact name they have on file.
• Write the dollar amount twice: once in numbers in the box on the right, and once in words on the line below the payee name.
• Sign the check in the bottom right corner with the same signature you provided to Chase when you opened your account.
• Use blue or black ink only — never pencil or other colors, because banks use automated readers that cannot process them.

Where to write the date

The date line is in the top right corner of the check. Write the date you are writing the check, not the date you want it to be deposited. You can write it as a number (01/15/2025), or spell out the month (January 15, 2025). Both formats work.

If you post-date a check (write a future date), the recipient can still deposit it before that date in most cases. Banks are not required to hold a check until the date written on it. If you need the money to stay in your account until a specific date, contact Chase directly instead of post-dating the check.

Writing the payee name correctly

The "Pay to the Order of" line is where you write who should receive the money. Use the exact name the payee has on file — if you are paying a business, use their legal business name, not a nickname. If you are unsure of the exact name, ask the person or business before you write the check.

If the payee name is very long, write it as completely as you can fit on the line. Do not use abbreviations unless the payee uses them officially. If you make a mistake on the payee name, void that check and write a new one — do not cross out and rewrite.

Writing the amount in numbers and words

The dollar amount appears twice on every check. On the right side, there is a box where you write the amount in numbers (for example, $150.50). Write the numbers close to the dollar sign so there is no room for someone to add digits in front of your amount.

Below the payee line, there is a longer line where you write out the amount in words (One hundred fifty and 50/100 dollars). Start at the left side of this line. After you write the words, draw a line from the end of your words to the word "dollars" at the end of the line — this prevents anyone from adding words after yours.

If the amount in numbers and the amount in words do not match, the bank will contact you or the payee to clarify before processing the check. To avoid delays, double-check both amounts before you sign.

The memo line and your signature

The memo line is optional and appears in the bottom left corner. You can write a brief note here about what the check is for — for example, "Rent for January" or "Invoice #2024-567". This is for your records and the payee's reference only; it does not affect how the check is processed.

Sign the check in the bottom right corner using the signature you registered with Chase. Your signature must match the one on file, or the bank may refuse to process the check. Use blue or black ink only. Do not sign the check until you have filled in all the other blanks and you are ready to hand it over or mail it.

Common mistakes to avoid when writing checks

The most frequent error is writing the amount in numbers and words differently — for example, writing $100 in the box but "Fifty dollars" on the line. Always verify both amounts match before signing.

Do not use pencil, erasable pen, or colored ink. Banks use automated scanning equipment that reads only blue or black ink, and checks written in other materials may be rejected or delayed. If you make a mistake, void the check by writing "VOID" across the front and start over with a fresh check.

Do not leave blank lines or spaces that could be filled in later. If you are not using the memo line, you can leave it blank, but do not leave the payee name or amount lines partially filled. Write clearly and stay within the printed lines on the check.

What to do if you make a mistake

If you write something incorrectly, do not try to cross it out or use correction fluid. Write "VOID" in large letters across the front of the check and set it aside. Then write a new check with the correct information. Keep the voided check in your records for your own accounting purposes.

If you have already mailed or given a check with an error, contact Chase right away. Depending on whether the check has been deposited, Chase may be able to stop payment on it. There is usually a fee for a stop payment request, which varies by your account type.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I write a check to myself?

Yes. Write your own name on the "Pay to the Order of" line, fill in the amount, and sign it. You can then deposit it into another account or cash it at a Chase branch. Some banks have limits on how often you can do this, so check with your Chase branch if you plan to do it regularly.

What if I do not have my checks yet?

If you just opened a Chase account and your checks have not arrived, you can order temporary checks through your Chase online banking portal or by calling the number on the back of your debit card. You can also ask a Chase branch to print a counter check for you to use when ready.

Is there a difference between writing a personal check and a business check?

The process is the same, but the information printed on the check is different. A business check has the business name and address pre-printed, while a personal check has your name and address. The steps for filling in the blanks are identical either way.

What happens if someone else writes a check on my Chase account?

Only you should write checks on your account. If someone else writes a check using your account number without permission, contact Chase when ready to report it as fraud. Chase can stop payment on the check and investigate the unauthorized transaction.

Can I write a check for more than my account balance?

You can write the check, but it will bounce if there are not enough funds when the payee deposits it. This can result in overdraft fees from Chase and fees from the payee's bank. If you think you might not have enough funds, contact Chase before the check is deposited to discuss your options.