How to Void a Check in 6 Easy Steps
Paper checks might not be used as frequently as they once were, but they still play a role in many important financial tasks. One common request involving paper checks is to provide a voided check. But if you've never done it before, you might be unsure of how to do it correctly or why it even matters.
Voiding a check is a simple but important process to ensure that your bank details on the check can be used safely and securely. Whether you're setting up
direct deposit or need to cancel a check, this guide walks you through what a voided check is, why you might need one, and how to properly void it.
What is a voided check?
A voided check is a paper check that has the word "VOID" written clearly across the front. When a check is voided, it can’t be used to withdraw money or be cashed. However, it still shows key banking information like your account and routing numbers. This is why companies, employers, or service providers may ask for one.
When voided checks are commonly used
You might need a voided check for:
Setting up direct deposit with an employer
Authorizing automatic bill payments
Providing bank information for a loan or subscription
Linking your bank account to investment platforms
Setting up government benefits or reimbursements
3 reasons to void a check
Here are three common scenarios when voiding a check could be necessary:
1. Setting up direct deposit
Employers and government agencies often require a voided check to set up direct deposit because it helps ensure your account and routing numbers are accurate and your payments go through without delays.
2. Correcting a mistake
If you mess up while writing a check — like if you put the wrong amount or misspelled the payee’s name — voiding it can help avoid confusion or potential misuse.
3. Preventing fraud on a lost or stolen check
If a check gets lost or stolen before it's deposited, voiding it (and informing your bank) can help prevent unauthorized withdrawals from your account.
6 steps to voiding a check
Voiding a check is straightforward, but it's important to do it correctly. Follow these steps to avoid mistakes:
1. Use a black or blue ink pen
Choose black or blue permanent ink over pencil. Pencil marks can be erased, which can create an opportunity for fraud.
2. Write "VOID" in large letters
Write “VOID” across the front of the check. You can write it on the payee line, the amount box, the signature line, or even across all three. Just make sure it’s clear that the check can’t be used.
3. Don’t cover the account information
Make sure your account and routing numbers at the bottom of the check remain visible. This is the key information the recipient needs.
4. Take a clear photo or scan
If you’re sending the check electronically, take a high-resolution photo or scan. Make sure it’s legible and that all information is visible.
5. Label the check for your records
Write a note on the back or in your check register like “Void for direct deposit.” This helps keep your records clear and organized.
6. Dispose of the check securely
If you don’t need to keep the voided check, shred it. This helps protect your identity and prevents fraud.
What to do with a voided check
After voiding a check, send it to the organization that requested it — usually your employer, a bank, or a service provider. Typically, there are two ways to do that:
Submit it digitally
Make sure to use a secure method for digital delivery. Some employers or banks offer upload portals or secure email links. Never send your voided check through an unsecured email.
Mail or deliver it in person
Use a sealed envelope and include only the check unless instructed otherwise. Don’t write any sensitive personal information on the outside of the envelope.
Once submitted, either save a copy of the check in your files or destroy it if it's no longer needed.
Alternatives to a voided check
If you don’t have a paper check on hand (many people don’t these days), you may be able to use one of the following alternatives:
1. Direct deposit form from your bank
Most banks offer a direct deposit form that contains your account and routing numbers. You can usually access this through your online banking portal.
2. Bank letter or account verification letter
Some financial institutions will write a letter confirming your account details. This is often accepted in place of a voided check.
3. Preprinted deposit slips
Some deposit slips contain your account and routing numbers. Make sure the organization requesting your information will accept this as a substitute.
4. Account screenshot (if allowed)
Some companies may accept a screenshot of your online banking page showing your routing and account number. Make sure it’s permitted and redact any sensitive data that isn’t required.
Can a check be voided electronically?
You can’t “void” a check digitally in the traditional sense, but many companies now accept an image of a check with “VOID” written on it. You can scan or photograph a physical check and write “VOID” across it using:
Just make sure that your routing and account numbers are still clearly visible.
3 common mistakes when voiding a check
Even though it’s a simple task, avoid these common errors to make sure your voided check does its job:
1. Writing "VOID" too small or faint
If the word "VOID" is hard to read, someone might attempt to alter and use the check. Be sure to write it big and bold.
2. Using a pencil or erasable pen
Always use permanent ink to prevent tampering.
3. Covering your banking information
The entire point of a voided check is to show your account and routing number. Make sure your writing doesn’t cover up those numbers.
Voiding a cashier’s check or money order
Cashier’s check
Contact the bank that issued the
cashier’s check and request a stop payment. You’ll likely need to provide:
Identification
The check number
Payment receipt
Note: The bank may charge a fee and take several days to process the cancellation.
Money order
To void a money order, reach out to the issuer (like USPS, Western Union, or MoneyGram). You may need to:
Fill out a cancellation form
Provide the serial number or tracking info
Pay a small processing fee
Note: Money orders are harder to void if they’ve already been cashed.
FAQs
Can you write void on your own check?
Yes. As long as the check belongs to you, you can void it at any time.
How do you cancel a check that’s already written?
If you’ve already written and possibly sent the check, you’ll need to request a stop payment from your bank. Be ready to provide the check number, amount, date, and payee. There may be a fee.
What if I don’t have checks?
Ask your bank for a direct deposit form or a letter verifying your account details. Some employers will also accept a screenshot of your online account with the routing and account number visible.
Can someone cash a voided check?
No, a properly voided check can’t be cashed or deposited. That’s why it’s important to write "VOID" clearly and permanently.
Is it safe to email a voided check?
Only if the company has a secure upload portal or encrypted email option. Otherwise, it's better to deliver it in person or by mail.
Manage your finances effortlessly with EarnIn
In today’s world of instant transfers and
mobile banking, paper checks are used less often. But they still pop up in situations like setting up payroll or automatic payments. When you need to void a check, doing it correctly helps protect your financial information and keeps your money safe.
If you’re living paycheck to paycheck or looking for tools to better manage your cash flow, EarnIn can help. The
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EarnIn is a financial technology company not a bank. Banking Services are provided by Evolve Bank & Trust or Lead Bank, both member FDIC. The FDIC provides deposit insurance to protect your money in the event of a bank failure. More details about deposit insurance
here.
Please note, the material collected in this post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be relied upon as or construed as advice regarding any specific circumstances. Nor is it an endorsement of any organization or services.
This Blog was sponsored by EarnIn. While the author received compensation, the information shared is grounded in independent research and intended to provide helpful and accurate guidance to readers.
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