Becoming financially independent involves knowing how to deal with your finances and checks. Certain financial transactions will require you to use a void check and you should be aware of what that entails. Setting up automatic electronic check payments, linking your bank account, and making direct payments are some of the things you can do with a voided check.
Being prudent about your bank account and information is required at all times, so try to always be informed about what to do and how to do it. If you still don’t know how to void a check, fear not because we’re here to help you with the process.
What Is a Voided Check?
A voided check is a check that has VOID written on its front page. The check can be filled in or blank, but once you write VOID on it, it means that it is not valid and that it shouldn’t be accepted for payments. However, a voided check can still be used to gather information about a person’s bank details such as bank account number, routing number, and check number. This is the main reason why you should manage them carefully and keep them safe and out of reach.
Voiding a check makes it invalid and impossible to use as a blank check. This means that if your void check falls into the wrong hands, they won’t be able to abuse it.
How to Write a Void Check?
Although it might sound complicated, voiding a check is actually quite easy. You can do this by taking a check from your checkbook and writing VOID in big letters all across its front page. It’s important that the letters cover the whole front part of the check but without covering the bank details on it.
Another important thing is to use a black marker or a pen that can’t be erased, making it easier for thieves to use it as a blank check. Once you have a void check, make sure to write it down and keep track of where it went in case you get confused later on.
When to Use a Voided Check?
Although voided checks cannot be used for payments, they can be used to provide other types of information. A void check still contains your banking information and can be useful when someone is trying to set up an electronic link with your bank account. A voided check is a good source of information in this case since it contains the following details:
- The name of your bank or credit union
- The number of your bank account
- The routing number – the code that is used to identify your bank
Besides this, you can use a voided check to do the following things as well:
- Set up payments
If you want to avoid writing checks for mortgage, rent, and insurance, you can use a voided check to set up automatic electronic payments. Once you set everything up, the amount will be deducted from your bank account each month automatically. You’ll have to sign an agreement that authorizes automatic payments.
- Make direct deposits
If you get your paycheck electronically, your employer will need your bank account information to be able to send the money to the right person. This can speed up the process and the funds can sometimes be on your account even a few days early.
- Avoid making mistakes
If you make a mistake while filling out a check, it’s paramount that you void it or destroy it. You probably won’t use this check for anything, so keeping it is risky because it can be used for fraud. Try to keep a record of all your checks and write down what you did with every single one. Make copies and keep them in a separate folder safe and secure.
What Does Void Mean?
Once you write VOID on one of your checks, it automatically means that it becomes invalid. This check cannot be treated as a blank check and used to make any payments, but it can still provide relevant information about your bank account.
If you need help with check-writing and other important financial services, Checkissuing specializes in numerous financial services such as writing and mailing checks, tax form services, and rebate and refund processing. You can always contact us and we’ll help you with whatever you need, as soon as possible.
What If You Don’t Have Any Checks?
If you’re not using any checks, you will probably have to come with alternative ways to link your bank account and set up automatic payments. Some of the options include:
- Deposit slips
If you don’t know how to make a void check or you don’t have them, you can opt for using deposit slips for certain financial actions. They also contain relevant information such as the routing number, but you will have to insert your bank account number.
- Online options
Another option in case you have no checks is to use online banking options. By opting for setting up your account online, you don’t have to provide a voided check. You can use the bank’s website to create your profile and set up an account. You will probably have to fill in an online form on your bank’s website, so make sure to have all the relevant info before you begin.
- Starter checks
If you don’t have any checks at hand, you can visit your bank’s nearest branch and ask for a counter check. The bank teller will have to print it out for you, so you could void it and use it as needed according to the instructions outlined here.
- Check printers
You can choose to print out a voided check if you need one. If you have access to a check printer, you can print the check and use it for whatever financial actions. This isn’t the best possible option, but it will provide you with the relevant bank information.
- Official bank account documentation
The final option in case you don’t have any checks is to go to your bank and ask for official bank account information. The bank should be able to provide you with a form that contains information such as the type of your bank account, the account number, routing number, and other relevant details. You should be able to use this instead of a voided check.
Voiding a check isn’t as complicated as you might think, you just have to know how to do it correctly. The next time you need a void check, read through and follow the steps we’ve outlined here. It can be done easily and quickly!
