A voided check has the word “VOID” written across it, indicating that it cannot be used for payment. Voiding a check ensures it won’t be used by anyone, such as thieves who may write in a large amount for themselves. Then, it can provide key information like your routing number and account number to be used in electronic transactions. An online checking account still uses checks, but if you’re out of checks, you may be able to send yourself a small check through your online bank’s bill payment service. Instead of using forms, which require you to void a traditional check, try logging into your account (or ask if there’s an online system).

What’s Needed To Void A Check?

1. Much like with a direct deposit paycheck, you can set up direct deposit and have your benefit payments sent to your bank account electronically.
2. These numbers contain your bank’s routing number and your account number, both of which are needed for verification.
3. One of the advantages is your bank or credit union may send the letter directly to the party requesting the voided check, avoiding the need to send it by email.
4. Email isn’t always secure and using email can put your information at risk.
5. A voided check has the word “VOID” written across it, indicating that it cannot be used for payment.

If you’re unable to provide a voided check, or if your bank doesn’t offer paper checks, there are alternative methods to set up a direct deposit or an electronic payment. As paper checks become less common in banking, organizations that normally require a voided check may be more receptive to another method. Try those first and you avoid the risk of your sensitive financial information falling into the wrong hands.

Recurring Payments

If you’re the one making the payments, you may need a voided check from the other party to connect the accounts. If the other person is making the payments, he or she will need a voided check from you for the same purpose. Even though fewer consumers make payments by check, voided checks dividend payable dividend payable vs dividend declared remain important. That’s why it’s good to know how they work, even if you don’t frequently pay by check, so you remain protected when you use them. Our mission is to provide readers with accurate and unbiased information, and we have editorial standards in place to ensure that happens.

How long can a check be cashed if its not voided?

Typically, you’ll need to void a check when you need to provide new account verification for setting up a direct deposit or direct withdrawal. You can provide written informaition adjusting entries always include about your account, but many companies require the voided check for verification. Employers may not be the only entities you’ll have a direct deposit arrangement with.

Cancelling a Check After You Have Sent It

To err is human and if you make a mistake when writing a check, voiding the check is often the best way to fix the error. Be aware, however, that voiding a check happens before the check has changed hands or is presented for payment at a bank. You may have to get creative, wait for checks, or find an alternative way to link your bank account. This is a seldom-discussed aspect of voided checks, but it’s critically important for protection from identity theft.

The content created by our editorial staff is objective, factual, and not influenced by our advertisers. When an employer or another entity requests a preprinted voided check, they are probably referring to a standard check that you have voided by writing VOID on the check. If you don’t have any checks, one of the simplest ways to get a voided check is to visit https://www.quick-bookkeeping.net/doubtful-accounts-and-bad-debt-expenses/ your local bank and request a counter check. You may have other alternatives, such as sending a copy of a check that has already cleared your bank. You can then void this check by writing VOID across the front and send it to the entity that requested a voided check. Alternatively, you may be able to print a check at home and then follow the same process.

However, to avoid delays, it’s best to verify whether a preprinted deposit slip is acceptable in place of a voided check. Counter checks are the same as the starter checks many banks provide when you open an account. These checks can be printed on demand and feature your bank’s routing number as well as your https://www.quick-bookkeeping.net/ account number. Be aware, however, that some banks may charge a small fee for counter checks. If you need to provide your bank account information but don’t have any checks, you may have some other options. This process allows your employer to deposit your paycheck or expense reimbursements directly.