Why Employers Request Voided Checks to Setup Payroll
More than 93% of employees in the US receive their wages through direct deposit. When you start a new job or want to update your banking information, your employer will likely ask for a voided check.
While fewer Americans use paper checks today (almost half haven’t written one in the past year), voided checks are a standard practice for secure payroll processing. In fact, 75% of companies still use paper checks for various business purposes.
Here are a few common reasons why your employer can request a voided check and what you can do if you do not have one.
1. Accurate Banking Information
A voided check contains your bank’s routing and account numbers printed clearly. This reduces the risk of typos when manually entering banking information.
One wrong digit could cause your paycheck to go to the wrong account. With 72% of employees facing financial difficulties if their paycheck is delayed even one week, HR teams want to reduce the risks as much as possible.
Routing numbers also have built-in checksums to prevent errors, but account numbers don’t. A voided check means setting up the correct account information is no longer a guesswork.
2. Fraud Prevention
A voided check helps verify that you own the bank account. This protects both you and your employer from fraudulent activity.
It’s harder for someone to fake a physical check than to provide random numbers. This step protects company funds and prevents unauthorized access to payroll systems.
3. Streamlined Payroll Setup
HR departments process dozens or hundreds of direct deposit forms. Having a voided check provides a standardized way to collect banking information.
It is faster than double-checking handwritten numbers and creates a consistent record for their files.
4. Company Policy
Many companies have established procedures that require voided checks. These policies have been in place for years and help maintain consistency across all new hires.
While online forms are becoming more common, many payroll systems still follow traditional processes.
Alternatives to a Voided Check
Don’t have physical checks? No problem.
Here are a few different alternatives your employer may accept:
Voided Check Generator: You can use our tool to create a printable voided check in PDF, JPG, or PNG format. It’s the easiest way to get a professional voided check immediately. The generator creates professional-looking voided checks with your banking information which you can download in your preferred format or print right away. No more waiting for banks or ordering checkbooks!
Bank Letter or Direct Deposit Form: Visit your bank to get an official letter or form that confirms your account details
Online Banking Printout: Many banks let you print a page showing your routing and account numbers
Deposit Slip: Some employers accept deposit slips since they contain the same banking information
Counter Check: Ask your bank for a counter check (though some banks charge a small fee)
Generate Voided Checks Quickly
To make the direct deposit setup easier, you can use our tool to create a printable voided check in PDF, JPG, or PNG format. This tool is perfect if you don’t have physical checks or need a voided check quickly.