Writing a check at TD Bank works the same way as any bank — you fill in the date, payee name, amount in numbers and words, and your signature, then tear it from your checkbook and send it or hand it to the person or business you're paying.

TD Bank provides checks as part of most checking accounts. The checks come in a book (also called a checkbook) with 25 or 50 blank checks, and each check has your account number and routing number printed at the bottom. You write on the check itself, not on a separate form. The process takes about two minutes once you know where each piece of information goes.

Checks are useful when you need a paper record of payment, when a business doesn't take cards, or when you want to mail a payment. TD Bank doesn't charge you to write checks — the cost is built into your account. If you run out of checks, you can order more through TD Bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service.

Key Takeaways

  • Fill in the date, payee name, dollar amount in both numbers and words, and your signature before tearing the check from your book.
  • The routing number and account number are already printed on your checks — you do not write these yourself.
  • Write the payee name on the "Pay to the Order of" line so the bank knows who should cash or deposit the check.
  • The amount in words (for example, "Fifty Dollars") must match the number amount, or the bank may refuse to process it.
  • You can order replacement checks through TD Bank's website, app, or by phone if you run out.

The Six Blanks You Need to Fill In

Every check has the same layout. At the top right, you'll see a blank line with "Date" printed above or below it — write today's date there in the format MM/DD/YYYY (for example, 01/15/2025). This tells the bank when you wrote the check.

On the line that says "Pay to the Order of," write the name of the person or business receiving the money. Use the full legal name if you know it — for example, "Acme Electric Company" rather than just "Acme." If you're paying a person, their first and last name works fine. This is the most important line because it tells the bank who is allowed to cash or deposit the check.

On the right side of the check, you'll see a box with a dollar sign ($) printed next to it. Write the amount in numbers here — for example, $125.50. Use a pen, not pencil. Write the numbers close to the dollar sign so someone can't add digits in front of your amount.

Below the "Pay to the Order of" line, there's a longer blank line. Write out the dollar amount in words here — for example, "One Hundred Twenty-Five and 50/100 Dollars." Write the whole dollar amount as words, then write the cents as a fraction over 100. This line must match the number amount exactly, or the bank may reject the check. If you make a mistake on this line, start over with a new check — don't cross it out.

At the bottom right of the check, you'll see a line for your signature. Sign your name the same way you signed when you opened your TD Bank account. Don't initial it or use a nickname — use your full signature. A check without a signature is not valid.

The memo line (a small blank near the bottom left) is optional. You can write what the check is for — for example, "Rent" or "Invoice #2024-001" — but it's not required. This is just for your records.

What the Printed Numbers at the Bottom Mean

At the very bottom of your check, you'll see three groups of numbers separated by colons or special symbols. You don't write these — they're printed by TD Bank. The first number is your bank's routing number, which identifies TD Bank to the financial system. The second number is your account number, which identifies your specific checking account. The third number is the check number, which matches the number printed in the top right corner of the check.

These numbers are read by machines when the check is deposited or cashed. You don't need to understand them to write a check, but they're there so the bank can process it correctly. If you're mailing a check and want to keep a record, you can write down the check number in your register or banking app.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes

The most common mistake is writing the amount in words and numbers differently. If you write "$100" in the number box but "Fifty Dollars" in words, the bank will contact you or reject the check. Always double-check that both amounts match before you hand over or mail the check.

Another mistake is using pencil instead of pen. Checks must be written in pen so they can't be erased or altered. If you make a mistake, don't try to fix it — tear up the check and write a new one. TD Bank won't process a check with cross-outs or corrections.

Don't post-date a check (write a future date) unless the person you're paying has asked you to. Many people think a post-dated check won't be cashed until that date, but banks often process it when ready anyway. If you need to delay payment, it's safer to wait and write the check closer to the actual payment date.

Make sure you have enough money in your account to cover the check. If you don't, the check will bounce (be rejected), and you'll owe TD Bank a fee. The person you were paying may also charge you a fee for the bounced check.

Keeping Track of Your Checks

When you write a check, write down the check number, date, payee name, and amount in your check register (the small booklet that comes with your checks) or in your TD Bank mobile app. This helps you track where your money is going and makes it easier to spot errors when you review your account.

TD Bank's mobile app and online banking let you see which checks have cleared (been processed) and which are still pending. A check usually clears within one to three business days after the person deposits or cashes it, but it can take longer if they deposit it at a different bank or if there's a holiday.

When You Run Out of Checks

TD Bank allows you to order new checks through several methods. Log into your TD Bank online account or mobile app and look for "Order Checks" in the menu — this is usually the fastest way. You can also call TD Bank customer service and request checks over the phone, or visit a TD Bank branch in person. There's no charge for ordering checks, though delivery takes one to two weeks.

If you need checks urgently, some third-party check printers (like Deluxe or Costco) can print TD Bank checks faster, sometimes in a few days. These printers use your routing and account number to print checks that work exactly like the ones TD Bank sends you. Make sure you order checks printed for your specific account number — don't use someone else's checks or blank checks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I write a check for more money than I have in my account?

The check will bounce, meaning the bank will reject it and not transfer the money. TD Bank will charge you a fee (usually $35 or more), and the person you wrote the check to may also charge you a fee. The check will be returned to them marked "Insufficient Funds." It's important to check your balance before writing a check.

Can I write a check to myself?

Yes. Write your own name on the "Pay to the Order of" line, sign the check, and deposit it into another account at TD Bank or a different bank. This is sometimes used to move money between accounts or to get cash from a teller. You'll need to endorse the back of the check (sign it again) when you deposit it.

What if I lose a check or someone steals it?

Contact TD Bank right away and tell them the check number. TD Bank can put a stop payment on that check, which prevents it from being cashed. There's usually a fee for this service (around $30), but it protects you if someone tries to use the check fraudulently. If the check has already been cashed, contact TD Bank's fraud department.

Do I need to use the checks TD Bank sent me, or can I use checks from another printer?

You can use checks from any printer as long as they have your correct routing number and account number printed on them. Many people use third-party printers because they're cheaper or offer different designs. Make sure the printer is reputable and that the numbers are correct before you order.

How long does it take for a check to clear?

Most checks clear within one to three business days after the person deposits or cashes them. If the check is deposited at a different bank or on a weekend or holiday, it may take longer. You can check the status of your checks in TD Bank's mobile app or online banking to see which ones have cleared.