How to Void a Check
If you’re here, you probably already have a check in front of you and are worried about doing something wrong.
Maybe your employer or landlord just requested a “voided check” for direct deposit or rent payments, but you’ve never done this before. Or worse, you’ve already filled it out with the wrong information and don’t want your account getting messed up.
Voiding a check is simple, but a small mistake can lead to delays, rejected payments, or security risks. There’s a right way and a wrong way to void a check, if you’ve already written something on it or plan to send it as a photo.
This guide will show you exactly how to void a check for any purpose, what to avoid, and what to do if you’ve already made a mistake.
Why Do You Need to Void a Check?
Most people don’t even consider voiding a check until someone asks for one. Here are some of the most common (and sometimes confusing) reasons you might need to void a check:
1. Setting Up Direct Deposit
Employers often request a voided check when you set up direct deposit for your paycheck.
They use the check to get your bank account and routing numbers, but “voiding” it means no one can actually cash it.
2. Automatic Bill Payments
Landlords, gyms, or utility companies sometimes want a voided check to set up automatic monthly withdrawals. This allows them to receive payments straight from your account.
If you mess this up, you risk late fees, missed rent, or an accidental withdrawal from the wrong account.
3. Correcting a Mistake
Sometimes you fill out a check and realize you wrote the wrong amount, date, or payee.
Rather than ripping it up (which isn’t always secure), you can void it to make sure no one can use it by accident.
4. Preventing Fraud
A check with your account info on it is sensitive. If you’re handing over a check for verification or scanning it to email, voiding it means no one can use it as a real payment.
How to Void a Check?
Voiding a check is easy. Here’s how to do it safely, so your banking information is protected and your check can’t be used for payment.
1. Use a Pen, Never a Pencil
Always use a pen with black or blue ink. Never use a pencil or erasable ink, because it can be changed.
Your goal is to make it permanent and obvious that the check is not valid for payment.
2. Write “VOID” in Large Letters Across the Front
Lay the check flat. Write “VOID” in big, clear letters across the front of the check.
The letters should cover most of the check, but not obscure your account and routing numbers at the bottom.
Do not sign the check or write anything else unless specifically asked.
3. Don’t Obscure Key Information
Make sure that your bank’s name, your account number, and your routing number at the bottom are still readable.
This is the information your employer or service provider actually needs.
4. Do Not Sign the Check (Unless Requested)
You do not usually need to sign a voided check. Signing is only necessary if your employer or bank specifically requests it.
5. Keep a Record
Take a photo or make a copy of the voided check before you hand it over or send it. This helps if you need to provide proof later, or if something goes wrong.
6. Deliver It Safely
If you’re handing it over in person, give it directly to the person or department that requested it.
If you need to email or upload a voided check, make sure you’re sending it to a secure and legitimate address or portal.
Never share sensitive banking info with anyone you don’t trust.
What If You’ve Already Filled Out the Check?
If you already wrote an amount, payee, or date but need to void the check:
Write “VOID” in large letters across the front, as above.
Optionally, write “VOID” in the payment amount box, signature line, and the endorsement area on the back for extra security.
Do not try to erase or use correction fluid.
If you made a mistake and already handed over the check, contact your bank immediately to place a stop payment.
Don’t Have a Checkbook? Use an Online Voided Check Generator
You can generate a printable voided check online using our tool if you don’t have a paper check.
Enter your account and routing numbers
Download or print your voided check
It’s that simple!