How to Void a Check: A Simple Guide

If you’re asked to void a check, which often happens when you’re setting up direct deposit, you might not be sure how to do it. Checks are being used less often these days, and as a result, people may be unfamiliar with the way they work.

Fortunately, the process of voiding a check for direct deposit or for any reason is pretty simple.

What Does It Mean to Void a Check?

First of all, what does it mean to void a check? When you write the word “VOID” on a blank check, it becomes a voided check meaning it cannot be used to draw money out of your account. This type of check is not used for deposit or cashing purposes.

Instead, the check, once you’ve voided it, can be used to set up direct deposit or bill pay. Establishing direct deposit or online bill pay eliminates the hassle of going to the bank to make payments or deposit your paycheck. It also automates your transactions to speed delivery and help you keep tabs on the money going in and out of your account.

Recommended: What Is an Outstanding Check?

How to Void a Check Step by Step

If you’re wondering how do you void a check, all you need is a blank check and a pen. Here’s how to complete the process:

Step 1: Use a Blue or Black Pen

This is a situation in which the writing instrument you use matters. Use a blue or black pen, not a pencil or a pen with a different color ink.

Step 2: Write ‘VOID’ in Large Letters Across the Check

Next, write “VOID” in large letters across the face of the check. However, be sure not to cover the account and/or routing numbers at the bottom. You could also write “VOID” in smaller letters on the payee line, amount line, in the amount box, and on the signature line, if you prefer.

Step 3: Keep a Record for Yourself

Write down the check number, recipient, and date in your checkbook and note that the check was voided so you don’t get confused by a skipped check when you balance your checkbook.

Why Would You Need to Void a Check?

There are practical uses for voiding a check including setting up direct payments or deposits, and automatic bill payments. Providing a voided check is a convenient way to share your banking information for such purposes. After all, copying your banking information (routing and account number) by hand leaves you vulnerable to mistakes.

Here are the top reasons to void a check:

•   Set up direct deposit with your employer for wages, salary, or expense reimbursement. Employers often let workers set up direct deposit instead of receiving a physical paycheck, and a voided check speeds the process.

•   Set up direct deposit for government benefits. Unemployment benefits and Social Security payments may be delivered by direct deposit instead of a mailed check. This way, both parties can enjoy the increased security of a digital transaction. Once the direct deposit turns up, you can then transfer funds to a different account as needed.

•   Establish automatic bill pay for loans, utility bills, or other payments. You may have the option to set up automatic payments for bills such as an auto loan or mortgage. Setting up autopay helps ensure you don’t miss a payment.

•   Void checks with mistakes. If you are writing a check from your checking account and make a mistake, you can write “VOID” across it, so no one uses or deposits it.

What’s the Difference Between a Voided Check and a Canceled Check

You may wonder what the difference between a voided and a canceled check is. When you make a void check, you are canceling a physical check you have in your possession. If you’ve lost a check (especially a blank one) or have sent out a check in error, that’s a different situation. You can contact your bank about stopping payment on the check.

When banks and credit unions talk about canceled checks, however, they are likely referring to ones that have already been used to transfer funds. The work of these checks is done, so to speak, so they are considered canceled.

The differences between a voided check and a canceled check are:

•   You can void a check yourself. To cancel a check, however, a bank or credit union has already been involved.

•   Voiding is quick and free. If you seek to cancel a check by stopping payment, it will involve time to speak to your bank, and there may be a fee charged to stop payment.

Recommended: How to Deposit a Check Online

No Checks? No Problem. Here’s What to Do

If you don’t have any checks, the first step to getting a checkbook is to open a new bank account. Checks may be free or may be offered for a fee. Many banks will give you preprinted “starter checks” to use until your personalized ones arrive.

If you already have a checking account but no checks, you can contact your bank or credit union about ordering checks. They can usually be ordered online, via a mobile app, over the phone, or in person.

What to Use Instead of a Voided Check for Direct Deposit

Aside from a voided check, you have other options to establish autopay or direct deposit. Here are some alternatives:

•   Direct deposit form. Some employers may let you use a direct deposit form without a voided check. In this case, ensure you complete your bank information correctly.

•   Preview a check. Some financial institutions let you “preview” your checks on your bank or credit union’s website before you order them online. If your financial institution allows this, you might be able to print out the preview and write “VOID” across it.

•   Enter bank information online. Depending on how your employer sets up direct deposit, you might have the option to connect directly to your bank account through your company’s payroll website. Just enter your bank information instead of supplying a voided paper check to manage your banking online.

•   Request a counter check at a bank branch. You may have the option to request what is known as a counter check at your local bank branch. You can use this specially printed check containing your bank information for your voided check. Some banks charge a fee for this service.

Recommended: Sending Money With Zelle

The Takeaway

Knowing how to void a check is a good skill to learn. When you write “VOID” on a check, it becomes a voided check you can use to set up autopay or direct deposit. Voided checks are not available for deposit or cashing.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

Can I void a blank check?

Yes, you can void a blank check by taking a blue or black pen and writing “VOID” across the face of the check. You could also write “VOID” in the payee line, amount line, amount box, and the signature line.

Can I void a check after it’s been sent?

You can’t void a check you have already sent. You’ll have to cancel the check. To do this, first make sure the check hasn’t cleared yet. Then, make sure you have your account number, check number, dollar amount, and date you wrote on the check. Contact your bank or credit union to stop payment. This action may require a fee.

Can I tell my bank to void a check?

You can void a check, but your bank can’t. A financial institution can stop payment on a check (possibly for a fee), and it typically cancels checks once they’re been paid.

How much does it cost to void a check?

Voiding a check is typically something that an account holder does, without a bank’s assistance, for free. A bank may stop payment on a check, however, at the account holder’s request, and this typically involves a fee of $20 to $35.

How do I void a check online?

Many major banks offer the option on their website or in app to generate a voided check image or PDF which can then be printed out. Another option would be to void a paper check, then scan it, and use that as needed online.

Photo credit: iStock/AsiaVision

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