Even in today’s world of debit cards, Venmo, and online bill pay, there are still moments when you need to write a paper check. Maybe your landlord prefers it. Maybe a small contractor doesn’t accept cards. Or perhaps you’re paying a government office.
If you haven’t written a check in a while, the part that usually causes confusion is the amount especially when cents are involved.
Let’s break it down in a simple, beginner-friendly way.
The Two Places You Must Write the Amount
Every check has two spots where you write the payment amount:
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The small box on the right (numbers only)
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The long line in the middle (written out in words)
Both must match exactly. If they don’t, banks typically go by the written words, not the numbers so accuracy matters.
Example: How to Write $8.15 on a Check
Imagine you need to write a check for eight dollars and fifteen cents.
Step 1: Write the Number in the Box
In the small box next to the dollar sign ($), write: 8.15
Always:
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Write dollars first
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Use a decimal point
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Include two digits for cents
Even if the amount is a whole number, you still include two zeros (like 5.00).
Step 2: Write the Amount in Words
On the long line, you’ll write:
Here’s how that works:
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Write out the dollar amount in words.
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Add the word “and.”
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Write the cents as a fraction over 100.
Why a fraction? Because cents are parts of a dollar and there are 100 cents in one dollar.
So 15 cents = 15/100 of a dollar.
You do not need to write the word “cents.” The fraction format is standard and widely accepted.
Why Use “15/100” Instead of “Fifteen Cents”?
Checks are designed to treat cents as fractions of a dollar. Using the fraction format:
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Is cleaner
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Prevents confusion
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Matches how banks process checks
You can write “fifteen cents,” but almost nobody does anymore. The fraction is easier and more secure.
Important Rule About the Word “And”
Use “and” only once right before the cents.
Correct:
One hundred five dollars and 25/100
Incorrect:
One hundred and five dollars and 25/100
When writing checks, skip extra “and” words in the dollar portion.
More Real-Life Examples
Let’s practice with different amounts.
Example 1: $10.99
Number box: 10.99
Written line:
Example 2: $11.05
Number box: 11.05
Written line:
Notice: You don’t need to write 05/100. Just 5/100 is fine.
Example 3: $5.00
Number box: 5.00
Written line:
Even though there are no cents, always include two zeros in the number box and use 00/100 in writing.
Some people also write:
Five dollars only
That’s acceptable, but 00/100 is more standard.
Example 4: $0.75 (Less Than One Dollar)
Number box: 0.75
Written line:
If the check is under one dollar, always write a zero before the decimal point.
You may also write:
No dollars and 75/100
Either way works.
Why Cents Are Written This Way
Think of the word “percent.” It literally means “per 100.”
There are 100 cents in a dollar, so:
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1 cent = 1/100 of a dollar
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25 cents = 25/100
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99 cents = 99/100
Once you think of cents as fractions, it becomes much easier.
What Happens If the Two Amounts Don’t Match?
If the numeric amount and written amount are different, banks typically rely on the written words.
For example:
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Box says: $50.00
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Written says: Five dollars and 00/100
The check could be processed for $5 instead of $50.
That’s why it’s critical to double-check before signing.
How to Write a Check to “Cash”
If you’re withdrawing money directly from your bank teller, you can write:
Pay to the order of: Cash
Then fill in the amount as usual.
However, this is risky. If the check is lost, anyone could cash it. A safer option is writing the check to yourself (using your own name).
How to Void a Check
Sometimes an employer asks for a voided check to set up direct deposit.
To void a check:
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Write VOID in large letters across the front.
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Make sure it’s clear and readable.
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Don’t block the routing and account numbers at the bottom.
This prevents the check from being used for payment while still providing your banking details.
Want to Avoid Writing Checks Altogether?
Most banks now offer easier alternatives:
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Online bill pay — Your bank sends money electronically or mails a check for you.
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Debit cards — Funds come directly from your checking account.
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Credit cards — Often safer for fraud protection.
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Peer-to-peer apps like Zelle or Venmo.
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Mobile wallets such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Checks still have their place, but for everyday payments, digital methods are faster and more secure.
